Fair Haven Mayor Josh Halpern Announces November Run
with Fair Haven Residents Kristen Hoey and Drew LaBarbera

Fair Haven, NJ – Fair Haven Mayor Josh Halpern and Fair Haven residents Kristen Hoey and Andrew “Drew” LaBarbera have announced their bid to run together for Fair Haven Mayor and Borough Council, respectively, in the November election. A formidable team, they bring an impressive array of experience, expertise, and perspective to the ticket.

In October 2021, the bi-partisan Fair Haven Council unanimously selected Josh Halpern to complete the unexpired term of his predecessor.  Mayor Halpern began his tenure by stepping into a tense negotiation regarding the proposed Hance Road and Cooney Terrace sidewalk project, quickly proving he has the necessary leadership skills and temperament to effectively manage complex situations.

Mayor Halpern successfully negotiated the Fair Haven Police Department settlement agreements and proudly confirmed the recent appointment of Fair Haven Police Lieutenant Sherri Lambert. He filled numerous open spots on Borough Commissions and Committees with individuals representing a range of perspectives across the community. Placing a focus on the preservation of the environment and our town’s quality of life, Mayor Halpern is proud to be involved in an extensive review process of the Borough’s land use ordinances. As part of this process,  he spearheaded the re-examination of the tree ordinance by the Shade Tree Commission, placing a focus on planting more trees than are cut down. In addition, he re-established the Restaurant Committee to review local ordinances, re-engaged the Brush Committee to ensure the brush facility is working as intended, and is working closely with the Facilities Committee regarding the renovation and development of Borough facilities.

Mayor Halpern also places a tremendous emphasis on connecting with the community.  He has been seen everywhere from shooting hoops with Knollwood students and faculty to scooping ice cream at Nicholas Creamery.  He recently launched a Facebook page (@MayorHalpern) and introduced new community outreach liaisons to connect with residents, local businesses, and the Fair Haven Board of Education.  In addition to chairing bi-weekly Council meetings, Mayor Halpern also attends meetings for every Commission and Committee in the Borough and has plans to meet with Fair Haven Seniors this spring.

As a newcomer to political office, Mayor Halpern quickly acquainted himself with the issues and operations of the Borough, bringing a fresh perspective and a collaborative approach. His many successes on behalf of Fair Haven have been met with overwhelming praise, and Mayor Halpern is now proud to announce his two running mates in the November election: Kristen Hoey and Andrew LaBarbera.
Kristen Hoey’s strong educational foundation, professional background, passion for Fair Haven and impressive spirit for volunteerism make her an ideal candidate for Borough Council.  Kristen graduated from Boston College with a degree in Economics and continues to support the school as an active alumnus. After graduation, Kristen was recruited by Salomon Brothers to join Citi’s Markets Analyst program. After 18 years at Citi, Kristen joined Point72 Asset Management and most recently partnered with a former Citi colleague to start an advisory practice focused on talent selection, development, retention, and succession planning.

Kristen and her husband Michael are proud parents of their 10-year-old twin children, who attend Knollwood School. Kristen is an active Fair Haven volunteer, serving on the Parks and Recreation Committee, Shade Tree Commission and Parent Teachers Association. Having played Women’s Varsity Softball at Boston College, Kristen is an avid sports enthusiast. As the Head Coach for the Fair Haven Diamonds 10U baseball team and coach of several recreation sports, Kristen takes pride in working with children to develop their confidence, work ethic, commitment to excellence and understanding of the importance of being strong representatives of the Fair Haven community.

Drew LaBarbera brings an equally impressive background to the ticket. From strategic operations to data analysis to cybersecurity, Drew has successfully led various international teams throughout his career. He holds a Master of Business Administration from Montclair State University and a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Ramapo College of New Jersey. He started his career as a tenured high school math teacher, where he introduced two important initiatives to his school: the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life and an alternate spring break program for high school students to build homes across the United States with non-profit organizations. Drew continued his successful trajectory working at JP Morgan Chase in technology infrastructure and as a Cyber Intelligence Strategic Leader for the United States Government. He moved back to New Jersey in 2020 and started working for OceanFirst Bank in July 2021.

Drew and his wife, Maggie, moved to Fair Haven with their son and daughter. They sought a small town with a strong sense of community, effective educational programs, and a place where they could root and raise their family. Drew always seeks to give back through volunteerism.  He currently coaches one of the 7U Fair Haven Diamonds baseball teams, started and leads a Men’s Bible Study group at the Church of Nativity, and accepted an appointment to the Fair Haven Zoning Board of Adjustment. Drew is looking forward to further serving Fair Haven.

Together, Josh, Kristen and Drew share a united passion for all that is Fair Haven. Their priority is to put community first, not politics. They recognize and appreciate what a special community we have in Fair Haven. They will work hard to preserve our small-town values, historic character, scenic beauty and sense of community, while advocating for the future. They are committed to uphold the many traditions that enrich Fair Haven’s community life, and to the residents they intend to serve.