Politics & Government

Belmar Councilwoman Claire Deicke Gets Tearful Sendoff

Councilwoman Claire Deicke was saluted for her longtime public service in Belmar as she sat on her last Borough Council meeting Wednesday.

Deicke, who was first elected in 2007, decided not to run for re-election in November. Her term ends at the end of the month. The council’s Wednesday meeting was the last scheduled for the year.

Following the close of business at the council meeting, members presented Deicke with a bouquet of roses and a gift card for dinner at her favorite restaurant.

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Mayor Matt Doherty read a proclamation praising Deicke’s 50 years of public service to and for the borough of Belmar.

Deicke was a public school teacher for 26 years, 22 of them at Belmar Elementary School. She served six years on the Board of Education and six years on the Borough Council.

Find out what's happening in Manasquan-Belmarwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“Belmar is a better town to live in and raise a family because of her and her service,” Doherty said.

Each member of council similarly lauded Deicke.

“Claire, you are what Belmar needed and still needs,’’ Councilman Jim Bean said. “You are a wonderful person and you do a great job. Godspeed and you’ll be sorely missed.’’

Councilwoman Jennifer Nicolay broke down in tears while talking about the support and guidance that Deicke has given her and Councilman Brian Magovern talked about the Deicke’s boundless energy.

Deicke also said a few words in thanks to the crowd who stayed for her send-off.

“I’ve enjoyed my years as your representative,’’ she said. “When you run for office, you’re a politician. But when you are elected you are a servant of the people. And that’s how I express my time here as a councilwoman. I thank you implicitly.”


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