“Since 2009, I’ve been the owner of a small business right here in town, where I’ve had the privilege of employing and interacting with many Middletown families over the years. Building a business in this community has been a rewarding experience, allowing me to contribute to the local economy and strengthen the ties that make Middletown special.”
-Mark Soporowski
Join Mark in his continuing fight
for the people of MIDDLE TOWN
I am, Mark Soporowski. I grew up in Old Bridge, NJ, and have proudly called Middletown home for almost two decades. When it came time to choose a place to start my family, Middletown was the clear choice, offering the perfect blend of community, education, and opportunity.
Since 2009, I’ve been the owner of a small business right here in town, where I’ve had the privilege of employing and interacting with many Middletown families over the years. Building a business in this community has been a rewarding experience, allowing me to contribute to the local economy and strengthen the ties that make Middletown special.
Before settling down, I had the unique opportunity to work in the music industry, traveling the world and experiencing diverse cultures. This experience broadened my perspective and deepened my appreciation for the arts—an appreciation I bring into my advocacy for music and art programs in our schools.
IT’S TIME TO PUT MIDDLETOWN RESIDENTS FIRST
I am a husband, a father, a small business owner, and a proud Middletown resident.For 17 years, I have owned and operated a local business in this community. Thatexperience has given me the opportunity to speak with residents from every part of town and understand what matters most. I have continued to bring new jobs to Middletown and invest directly in our local economy.
My family chose Middletown because it is a place where strong neighborhoods, hard work, and community pride still matter. Like many families, we have built our lives here and want to see it continue to thrive.
Local government should reflect those same values: responsible leadership, respect for
taxpayers, and practical decision-making that protects our quality of life.
I was actively involved in this community long before holding public office, regularly attending Township and Board of Education meetings.
I am a conservative Republican, but I am not controlled by political organizations or special interests. I answer to residents.
As a business owner, I approach leadership with independence, accountability, and a focus on results.
The Township Committee and the Board of Education serve different purposes. That separation matters.
Each must operate independently, without political crossover.
At the same time, when it benefits residents, smart coordination on facilities, services,and operations can improve efficiency while maintaining that independence.
Property taxes are one of the biggest issues facing Middletown families. I hear it every day.
So let’s address it directly.
On the Board of Education, I voted for the 10.1% school tax increase. It was notpopular, but it was necessary.
That situation was created over years — short-term budgeting, reliance on temporary fixes, and delaying tough decisions. Eventually, those choices have consequences.
I was not elected to ignore that reality. I was elected to deal with it.
At the same time, residents saw a proposal this year to close schools. That decisionwas driven by a majority of the board. As one member, I did not support that approach and have been clear that decisions of that magnitude should come through a thoughtful, long-term plan with community input.
Local government works best when decisions are made carefully, transparently, and
with the public involved — not rushed or reactive.
I made the responsible vote to stabilize the situation and begin moving things in the right direction.
Now the focus is making sure Middletown never ends up in that position.
That means disciplined budgeting, long-term planning, and leadership that addresses problems early — not after they grow into something bigger.
Small businesses are the backbone of Middletown.
I deal with the realities of running a business in New Jersey every day. Our town should be one of the most business-friendly communities in the state.
That means clear rules, fair treatment, and leadership that views local businesses aspartners.
When businesses succeed, they create jobs, strengthen neighborhoods, and keep our community moving forward.
Public safety is essential to maintaining the quality of life residents expect.
Middletown is strong because of the dedication of our police, fire, EMS, and firstresponders. Through years of involvement in this community, I have had the privilege of getting to know many of them.
They deserve our full support and the resources necessary to do their jobs effectively.
Preserving open space is critical to maintaining Middletown’s character.
Residents have consistently supported this through the Open Space Trust Fund, and those dollars should be used responsibly for their intended purpose.
At the same time, state housing mandates cannot be ignored. Failing to plan risks costly litigation and the loss of local control.
The responsible path is to plan ahead — prioritizing redevelopment, underutilized properties, and existing infrastructure instead of sacrificing open space or disrupting established neighborhoods.
We can protect what matters while maintaining control of our future.
Under the current system, residents do not directly elect the mayor.
Many believe that should change.
I support forming a Charter Study Commission so residents can evaluate whether our structure still serves the community and decide if adjustments are needed.
This is about giving residents a stronger voice in how their town is governed.
Local government should operate efficiently, remain accountable, and stay focused on results.
That means responsible budgeting, modern operations, and leadership that puts residents first.
Middletown is built on families, small businesses, and people who take pride in where they live.
As a father, a business owner, and a longtime resident, I understand what makes this community special.
My goal is simple: keep Middletown strong, affordable, and a place people are proud to call home.
I am not a career politician. I am part of this community, and I will always be accessible,approachable, and available to the people I represent.
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