Cherry Hill's firefighters union is backing two incumbent fire commissioners in a three-way race heading into the Nov. 3 general election.
The Cherry Hill Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 2663, endorsed John J. Mulholland Jr. and Rosy Arroyo for re-election on Thursday, Oct. 8. The union said the two commissioners stand with firefighters and prioritize public safety.
Both serve as commissioners at large on the five-member Cherry Hill Board of Fire Commissioners, the elected body that governs Cherry Hill Fire District No. 13. Mulholland has also served as the board's treasurer, according to board meeting agendas. The board is chaired by Ryan M. Doran and operates out of 1100 Marlkress Road.
They face one challenger. Michael Richter of Cherry Hill is the third candidate on the ballot, according to the Camden County official candidate list finalized July 27. Voters will pick two of the three candidates for three-year terms.
The endorsement came through the union's political action arm, the Cherry Hill Professional Firefighters Fire PAC, which collects voluntary member contributions to support candidates and public safety causes. IAFF Local 2663 represents Cherry Hill firefighters, fire prevention specialists and motor maintenance personnel. A separate local, IAFF Local 3198, represents the department's officers, including lieutenants, captains, battalion chiefs and the chief fire marshal.
The fire commissioner race often draws less attention than other contests on the ballot. Cherry Hill is one of five Camden County municipalities that moved their fire district elections from a standalone February vote to the November general election, joining Berlin Township, Lindenwold, Pine Hill and Winslow.
No public statements from Mulholland, Arroyo or Richter about the race were available as of Saturday, Oct. 10.
Mail ballots became available before the Oct. 8 endorsement and can be submitted through Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 3, at local polling places. Mulholland appears at ballot position No. 2 and Arroyo at No. 3.
