UPPER TOWNSHIP – Deputy Mayor Victor Nappen and Committeeman Tyler Casaccio won re-election to Township Committee unopposed.
Nappen won his first seat unopposed in 2022, taking over for John Coggins, who chose not to seek re-election. He was named deputy mayor in the beginning of 2025, when Curtis Corson was chosen as mayor, Zack Palombo, Sam Palombo and Casaccio joined the governing body.
Nappen, who collected 4,379 votes, said his goals for the next three years include keeping Upper Township affordable while ensuring essential services remain strong and advancing the infrastructure programs from roads and drainage to recreation and emergency-management systems.
He said he also intends to foster a business-friendly environment by supporting local small businesses, growing job opportunities and “encouraging responsible development that moves Upper forward yet keeps its small-town feel.”
Nappen also hopes to strengthen transparency and resident engagement.
“I’ll make sure residents have a voice in planning and decision-making, especially when it comes to growth, open space and preserving what makes Upper Township unique,” he said.
Casaccio, who garnered 4,358 votes, was serving the remainder of the term vacated early by former committeeman Mark Pancoast and just won a full three-year term. Casaccio said he would like to continue moving ahead with the Beesleys Point redevelopment project, working with the developers to “create a unique destination for tourists while not overwhelming the neighbors of Beesleys Point.”
He also would like to streamline and modernize services and facilities at Township Hall and improve Amanda’s Field.
Casaccio said the township has secured funds to build a new skatepark and create an outdoor gym. He also would like to get lighting for the fields.
He wants to continue to attract tax ratables and businesses to the township.
He said the township uses only about 13 percent of tax revenue collected in an average tax bill, while the school district amounts to 70 percent and the county and fire department make up the remaining 17 percent.
“That doesn’t mean we don’t understand the importance of bringing in businesses to help offset tax hikes and keep our town budget under control,” he said.
He said beach replenishment or some other type of erosion control is vital for Strathmere.
“We continue to work with the Army Corps of Engineers and the DEP to come up with solutions for the future, something more permanent than dredging,” Casaccio said.
He also wants to continue to engage with the community at Township Committee meetings and events to hear concerns and generate common-sense solutions.
“Overall, I feel the state of the township is in a great place,” he said. “I will continue to prioritize quality of life in our suburban town with respect to the taxpayer dollar.”
– By CRAIG D. SCHENCK/Sentinel staff