VILLAS – Since Mayor Erik Simonsen vacated his position, after winning a seat on the State Assembly, there has been a shift on Lower Township Council. Deputy Mayor Frank Sippel became mayor, and Councilman David Perry became deputy mayor.
Cape May County Sheriff Robert Nolan administered the oath of office to Perry Feb. 3. Perry’s wife, Janet, held the Bible during the ceremony.
The hunt is on to replace Perry on the dais.
Perry is a Republican, so by state statute, the Lower Township Regular Republican Organization is tasked with filling his empty seat. Any registered Republican residing in Lower Township can apply.
From the applicants, the selection committee hears presentations from three chosen candidates to send to council. From those three, a recommendation is made to fill the open position.
The new council member should be seated Feb. 19.
