Witherspoon, Soto, and Thompson Unite
This team Focuses on Redevelopment, Senior Services, and Unity Across Communities
HAMILTON TOWNSHIP — Dr. Thelma Witherspoon, Yvette Soto, and Tracy Thompson are joining forces in a historic campaign for the Hamilton Township Committee, pledging to bring fiscal responsibility, community unity, and expanded services to New Jersey’s largest geographical municipality.
Witherspoon Seeks Re-election
Witherspoon, seeking re-election after her first term, said her decision to run again stems from her desire to continue the progress her administration has made. “You can’t do anything alone—it’s always a team effort,” she said, noting that she has worked across party lines as the lone Democrat on a largely Republican committee. “Once you become a member of the committee, it’s about the residents and the township,” Witherspoon said.
During her first term, Witherspoon helped secure the long-awaited construction of a modern concession stand at Liepe Field, replacing the portable toilets that had served athletes and spectators for more than 16 years. She also championed redevelopment projects, including Amazon’s purchase of roughly 80 acres of the former Hamilton Mall racetrack property—a development expected to bring new jobs and economic opportunities to the region.
“Our priorities are expanding youth and senior services, promoting responsible redevelopment, and maintaining fiscal responsibility,” Witherspoon said. “We want to ensure every dollar benefits our residents.”
Soto Brings Financial Expertise and Family Focus
Yvette Soto, a business owner and first-time candidate, said she hopes to strengthen the township’s small business community and economic foundation. With more than 25 years of experience in financial development and grant management—helping to raise more than $50 million for nonprofits—Soto said she understands how to balance budgets while investing in people.
“I encourage women, minorities, and everyone in our community to take advantage of small business resources,” Soto said. “I want to see our economy grow and provide families with programs that bring people together.”
Soto also envisions expanding senior programming and emergency preparedness education. Drawing on her background in national emergency management, she advocates for every household to have an emergency kit ready. “Being prepared saves lives and protects families,” she said.
Thompson Pushes for Youth Recreation and Community Events
Tracy Thompson, running for the unexpired seat left vacant by the township’s deputy mayor, Robert Laws, who recently accepted a position as Business Administrator for the City of Pleasantville, said she hopes to use her background in event promotion and community organizing to reestablish Hamilton Township as a hub of activity and inclusion.
A longtime volunteer, Thompson is eager to see the creation of a year-round recreation center and expanded opportunities for local youth. “I want to provide our young people with safe spaces to learn computer skills, explore new experiences, and travel beyond Atlantic County,” she said. “It’s about showing them there’s a world of possibilities beyond what they see every day.”
Thompson also emphasized the need for diversity training within municipal departments, calling for a more inclusive approach to public service and community engagement.
Tackling Hidden Challenges
While all three candidates expressed pride in Hamilton Township’s growth, they also acknowledged the need to address less visible issues such as homelessness. Witherspoon recently raised awareness about residents living in tents or vehicles near commercial areas and has worked with local police and Jewish Family Services to connect those in need with social services. “We can’t ignore people who are struggling,” she said. “We have to make sure help is accessible.”
A Historic Team Effort
If elected, Witherspoon, Soto, and Thompson would form one of the most diverse teams in the township’s history—three women, including its first Latina committee member. Witherspoon said their unity symbolizes the kind of leadership Hamilton Township needs.
“It’s about bringing people together,” Witherspoon said. “No matter our background or perspective, the common goal is Hamilton Township—and its residents, period.”
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