Featured race: Lackawaxen Township Supervisors

Mike Mancino

Mancino told the River Reporter he’s running for reelection because he wants to continue serving the community, building on the progress he’s made since starting as supervisor in 2014. 

“Serving as supervisor has been incredibly rewarding,” Mancino said. “Unlike at the state or federal level, local government offers the opportunity to create real, meaningful change and to see the positive impact of that change firsthand.”

Mancino has highlighted transparency as a cornerstone of his service as supervisor, both fiscal transparency and transparency about the actions taken by the board of supervisors. “Through consistent promotion of our monthly meetings, increased use of social media and direct community outreach, we made it a priority that every resident has access to clear, accurate information about what’s happening in our township,” he said. 

For his upcoming term, Mancino says he would commit to making the township’s emergency services a top priority, as well as to focus on quality-of-life improvements to Lackawaxen’s parks and public spaces. 

“The science is clear: access to safe, well-maintained outdoor spaces has a direct, positive impact on physical and mental health. I believe investing in recreation is not just about beautification, it’s about building a stronger, more vibrant township where families thrive and residents of all ages feel a deeper sense of belonging,” he said. 

Ray Fennell

Fennell told the River Reporter he decided to run for supervisor because he believes the community deserves a stronger voice in shaping its future. 

While he’s been following municipal affairs from afar for most of his adult life, he says, he became actively involved during the township’s consideration of purchasing the former Threshman’s property—the former river launch that will become a township park. “That moment sparked a deeper passion for participating in the decision-making process, and I began regularly attending meetings to better understand the direction of the township and advocate for thoughtful development that truly serves our residents.”

Fennel says his top priorities, were he to be elected, would be “greater accontability and transparency” within the township’s municipal government, as well as securing and preserving Threshman’s for the benefit of the local community. He says it would be key to implement a monitoring system for the property’s use and maintenance, and to ensure it remains protected, especially for veterans to have an opportunity for nature and reflection. 

“I’m passionate about striking a better balance between the needs of our residents and the growing number of visitors to the area,” he says.