In my opinion, public servants are the sum of their experience and the inherent qualities they possess. With over 25 years working in local, state and county government across New Jersey, there is no doubt that Jeff Jotz has the necessary experience. But for those who don’t know Jeff, I can offer you a unique perspective at some of the characteristics that will make him an invaluable addition to the Borough Council.
I first met Jeff over 10 years ago on a cold morning in Rahway River Park while at my first swim team practice of the summer. Anyone who knows Jeff knows his deep love for the sport of swimming. An accomplished swimmer in his own right, Jeff now coaches swimmers of all ages and abilities. It was no different that day.
As I trudged in, miserable at the thought that I would be spending the next two hours in a freezing pool, I did not want to speak to anyone. That is… anyone except Jeff Jotz. Jeff wasn’t even my coach that day, but he called me over. He already knew my name, introduced himself, and made sure I was in the right mindset to swim. Jeff cared about me before I even got to know him, and his glowing personality carried me and others through many grueling morning practices in the summers to come.
Years later, after college, law school, and joining the Army, I had largely stopped swimming. I heard that Jeff was coaching adult swim practices in New Providence and decided to try one out.
Unsure if Jeff would remember me, I walked in quietly, not unlike the day I first met him. Boy was I wrong; Jeff was elated to see me and wanted to hear all about my life, like I had never left.
Few coaches possess the desire to truly understand the athletes they coach, just like many civil servants fail to possess the compassion required to lead. Not Jeff. Jeff cares about the residents of Garwood like he cares about the swimmers he coaches. Whether it be rescuing a resident from a stranded car during Hurricane Ida, or rescuing a 16 year old kid from the miseries of morning swim practice, Garwood residents should know that, every day, Jeff Jotz exhibits the qualities required to serve the Borough.
Jeff will be an excellent addition to the Borough Council. I hope you will support him with your vote.
