Local politics in Teaneck usually feels like a full-contact sport, and the 2024 municipal race was no exception. Honestly, if you weren't glued to the live streams or refreshing the Bergen County Clerk’s page until your thumb hurt, you missed a classic Jersey political showdown. This wasn't just about three seats on a seven-member council; it was a referendum on where the Township is headed through 2028.
So, who actually won the Teaneck Township Council seats?
The short answer: The incumbents held the line. Michael Pagan, Karen Orgen, and Mark J. Schwartz emerged victorious after a high-stakes campaign that saw plenty of lawn sign drama and digital mudslinging. They officially started their new four-year terms on January 1, 2025.
The Winning Slate: Experience Over Change
In Teaneck’s non-partisan system, candidates often group up. It’s kinda like forming a band, but instead of instruments, you're playing the "who has the most municipal experience" card. The winning trio—Schwartz, Orgen, and Pagan—ran as a cohesive unit. They focused heavily on their track records regarding the municipal budget and local development.
By the time the final tallies were certified, it was clear that a majority of Teaneck voters preferred the "devil they know."
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The unofficial results that night had people holding their breath. Michael Pagan led the pack with a commanding performance. Mark Schwartz and Karen Orgen followed closely, securing the remaining two available slots. Their victory means the council's internal balance remains largely unchanged, providing a level of continuity that some residents find comforting and others find frustrating.
Breaking Down the Candidates
To understand why these three won, you've gotta look at the field they were up against. It wasn't a walk in the park.
- Michael Pagan: Currently serving as Mayor, Pagan’s campaign leaned into his role as a bridge-builder. He’s been a visible figure at community events, and his "Stronger Together" messaging seemed to resonate across different wards.
- Karen Orgen: As a pharmacist and long-time local, Orgen brought that "hometown" feel. She’s often seen as the pragmatic voice on the council, focusing on health initiatives and public safety.
- Mark J. Schwartz: Love him or hate him, Schwartz is a powerhouse in Teaneck politics. He’s the guy who knows the budget inside and out. His supporters see him as a financial watchdog; his critics often point to his stance on development projects.
The challengers—including Chondra Young, Duane Harley, Reshma Khan, and Ardie Walser—brought a lot of energy to the table. They ran on platforms of increased transparency and more community-led decision-making. While they didn't clinch seats this time, the number of votes they pulled shows there is a significant chunk of the population looking for a fresh perspective.
Why the 2024 Vote Was Different
Teaneck is unique. We have a council-manager form of government. You’re not just voting for a "boss" of the town; you're voting for the people who will hire the Township Manager and set the policy that the manager carries out.
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The 2024 race was shaped by a few massive local issues:
- Taxes: Teaneck isn't cheap. Any candidate who couldn't explain their plan for the municipal tax levy was dead in the water.
- Development: From the Holy Name hospital expansion to new apartment complexes on State Street, "over-development" is the buzzword that keeps everyone up at night.
- The Middle East Conflict: It sounds crazy for a local township council, but national and international tensions frequently spill over into Teaneck’s council chambers. The candidates' responses (or lack thereof) to global events actually swayed local voters this year.
The New Council Lineup (As of 2026)
Since the council operates on staggered terms, not everyone was up for re-election. Here is how the Teaneck Township Council looks right now:
- Mayor Michael Pagan (Term ends Dec 31, 2028)
- Deputy Mayor Karen Orgen (Term ends Dec 31, 2028)
- Councilman Mark J. Schwartz (Term ends Dec 31, 2028)
- Councilwoman Hillary Goldberg (Term ends Dec 31, 2026)
- Councilman Elie Y. Katz (Term ends Dec 31, 2026)
- Councilwoman Denise Belcher (Term ends Dec 31, 2026)
- Councilwoman Danielle Gee (Term ends Dec 31, 2026)
Basically, if you’re unhappy with the current direction, your next chance to change the majority won’t come until the 2026 elections, when those remaining four seats are up for grabs.
What Happens Next for Teaneck?
With the 2024 winners now firmly in their seats, the focus shifts from campaigning to governing. We're already seeing the effects. The council is currently grappling with the 2026 budget and several high-profile zoning applications.
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If you want to stay involved, the best thing you can do isn't just voting every two years. It's showing up.
Actionable Steps for Teaneck Residents:
- Watch the Meetings: Most council meetings are live-streamed on the Township website and YouTube. You don't have to go to the municipal building to see the drama unfold.
- Check the Agendas: They are usually posted on the Friday before a Tuesday meeting. It's the only way to know if they're about to vote on something that affects your property taxes.
- Use the "Good and Welfare" Segment: This is your three minutes to tell the council exactly what you think. It’s recorded for the public record, and believe it or not, they do listen (even if they don't always agree).
- Join a Board or Commission: There are dozens of volunteer positions on the Planning Board, the Environmental Commission, and the Library Board. That’s where the real work often happens before it even reaches the Council.
The 2024 election proved that Teaneck remains a town of deep convictions and high engagement. Whether you're thrilled with the winners or already planning for 2026, the key is to stay informed on the actual policy, not just the politics.