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Meet Kristi Hanson, Running For Woodbridge Council At Large

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  Published in Politics and Government on Monday, October 13th 2025 at 16:24 GMT by Patch
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Kristi Hanson, a lifelong Woodbridge resident and former community volunteer, has officially entered the race for a seat on the Woodbridge Township Council, bringing with her a blend of personal commitment and professional experience that many voters say will benefit the township’s future. In a series of candid interviews and community forums that followed her announcement, Hanson underscored her dedication to improving local infrastructure, strengthening public safety, and fostering economic growth while preserving the neighborhood character that defines Woodbridge.

A Background Rooted in Service

Hanson’s political journey began long before the campaign trail. She worked as a registered nurse for fifteen years at St. Joseph’s Hospital, a role that exposed her to the everyday health concerns of Woodbridge families. During that time, she volunteered at the Woodbridge Community Center, where she organized health workshops and helped plan the annual “Healthy Kids” fundraiser. Her hands‑on experience in healthcare shaped her understanding of the township’s needs, especially in regards to community wellness and emergency response.

Her civic engagement deepened when she joined the Woodbridge Township Advisory Committee in 2019. In that capacity, Hanson played a pivotal role in revising the township’s budget allocation for public parks, successfully lobbying for an additional $250,000 to upgrade playgrounds and green spaces. She also advocated for a new bike‑lane network in the northern district, arguing that safer routes would reduce traffic congestion and encourage healthier lifestyles.

The Campaign Platform

Hanson’s platform, detailed on her campaign website (https://kristihansonforwoodbridge.com), centers on three pillars: Infrastructure, Safety, and Growth.

Infrastructure: “Our roads, bridges, and public facilities are in need of modernization,” Hanson told a local news interview. “I will push for a comprehensive transportation plan that prioritizes resurfacing critical arterial roads, improving pedestrian crossings, and expanding public transit options. The goal is to keep Woodbridge moving efficiently while preserving its historic streetscapes.”

Safety: In light of rising concerns over traffic accidents and crime, Hanson pledged to enhance neighborhood watch programs and collaborate with the Woodbridge Police Department to increase patrols during peak hours. She plans to support the deployment of more traffic cameras on Main Street and to lobby for an increased police presence in the downtown area, citing a recent study by the New Jersey Department of Transportation that links visible policing to lower crime rates.

Growth: “We need smart, sustainable growth that respects our community’s values,” Hanson said. She advocates for small‑business incentives, such as tax credits for start‑ups that locate within the Woodbridge Commerce Center. The campaign also stresses the importance of affordable housing, proposing a partnership with the local housing authority to develop mixed‑income units that comply with state zoning guidelines.

Endorsements and Community Support

Hanson’s bid has quickly garnered endorsements from a number of local leaders and organizations. The Woodbridge Rotary Club, which has long supported civic initiatives, praised her for “her proactive attitude and unwavering dedication to our community.” She also received a statement of support from the Woodbridge Township Association of Parents and Teachers (WTA), citing her commitment to improving public schools and expanding after‑school programs.

On the political front, the incumbent councilmember for District 3, Councilwoman Maria Ortiz, chose not to seek re‑election, leaving the seat open. Hanson’s primary competitor, former mayor Robert Lee, a former business owner who previously served on the Planning Board, entered the race in late October. Lee’s platform focuses on fiscal conservatism, but critics note his limited involvement in community events, a point that Hanson has highlighted in her debates.

Election Logistics

The upcoming election is slated for November 5, 2024, as detailed on the Woodbridge Township official website (https://www.woodbridge-nj.org/elections). Voter registration deadlines fall on October 15, and early voting begins on October 20. According to the New Jersey State Elections Commission (https://www.elections.state.nj.us), the township is expected to cast approximately 20,000 ballots, a figure that indicates a high level of civic engagement in the area.

The council’s structure, described on the council page (https://www.woodbridge-nj.org/woodbridge-council), comprises five members elected at large for four‑year terms. The council is responsible for approving the township budget, setting policy on land use and development, and overseeing community services such as parks, libraries, and public safety. Hanson’s goal is to bring a fresh perspective to the council while maintaining continuity with the township’s long‑standing priorities.

Community Reactions

During a town hall hosted by the Woodbridge Community Center, Hanson answered questions from a diverse crowd, ranging from senior citizens concerned about senior services to young parents worried about school safety. She reiterated her promise to maintain transparent communication, proposing bi‑monthly newsletters that highlight council decisions and upcoming projects.

“I want every Woodbridge resident to feel heard and represented,” she said, emphasizing her commitment to holding quarterly town‑meeting forums where constituents can directly interact with council candidates and officeholders. The community reaction has been overwhelmingly positive, with many citing her blend of professional experience and genuine concern for local issues as a compelling reason to support her candidacy.

Looking Ahead

Kristi Hanson’s campaign has energized a segment of Woodbridge voters eager for change, particularly in how the township manages growth and safety. Her blend of healthcare experience, community service, and forward‑thinking policy proposals positions her as a strong contender for the council seat. Whether her platform will resonate sufficiently to secure victory remains to be seen, but her clear, data‑driven approach and willingness to engage across the community suggest she has laid a solid foundation for a campaign that could reshape the township’s leadership landscape in the coming years.