Gerry Scharfenberger

Gerry Scharfenberger is an American politician and member of the New Jersey General Assembly, representing the 13th Legislative District. A member of the Republican Party, he has been serving in this capacity since 2020, following his appointment to fill the vacancy left by Amy Handlin. Scharfenberger has an extensive background in local governance, having previously held positions such as Mayor of Middletown Township and a member of the Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders. In addition to his political career, he has worked as an adjunct professor and has a background in archaeology.

Early life and career

Gerard P. Scharfenberger was born on November 29, 1958, in Brooklyn, New York. He later became a resident of Middletown Township, New Jersey. Before entering the political arena, Scharfenberger pursued a career in archaeology, where he worked on various historical sites throughout Monmouth County. His academic involvement includes serving as an adjunct professor of archaeology at Monmouth University, where he contributed to the education of students in the field.

Scharfenberger's political career began in 2005 when he was elected to the Middletown Township Committee. His tenure on the committee marked the beginning of a series of leadership roles within the local government. He served multiple terms as Mayor of Middletown Township, holding the position in several years, including 2007, 2008, 2010, 2013, 2016, and 2017. In addition to his role as Mayor, he was Deputy Mayor in 2006 and 2009. His leadership during this time included participation in Chris Christie's 2009 transition team, which focused on the incoming administration's priorities.

Scharfenberger's commitment to public service extended beyond his mayoral duties. He was appointed as the Director of the Office for Planning Advocacy from 2010 to 2018, a role that involved overseeing various planning initiatives within the state. However, he was dismissed from this position after declining to attend a press conference that supported a federal property tax deduction proposed by Governor Phil Murphy. Furthermore, Scharfenberger has been a member of the Middletown Landmarks Commission since 1996, reflecting his ongoing interest in preserving the historical character of his community.

Legislative service

Gerry Scharfenberger's legislative career in the New Jersey General Assembly began in 2020 when he was elected to represent the 13th Legislative District. He had previously attempted to run for the State Assembly in 2017 but withdrew when the incumbent, Amy Handlin, opted not to pursue a State Senate seat. Following Handlin's departure, Scharfenberger was appointed to the Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders in 2018, filling the vacancy left by Serena DiMaso's election to the State Assembly. He subsequently won a seat in the Assembly in 2019, running alongside DiMaso.

As a member of the General Assembly, Scharfenberger has taken positions on various issues. He opposed a measure that sought to remove the statue of General Phillip Kearny from Statuary Hall, emphasizing the importance of preserving historical symbols, regardless of contemporary interpretations. His stance reflects a commitment to maintaining the historical narrative of the state and the nation.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Scharfenberger demonstrated a notable approach to his legislative salary. He chose to forgo his salary while his constituents faced challenges related to unemployment claims. He expressed his concerns regarding the unresolved issues affecting his constituents, indicating a focus on their welfare during a critical time.

In the current legislative session, Scharfenberger serves on several committees, including the Environment and Solid Waste Committee, the Higher Education Committee, and the Regulated Professions Committee. These assignments allow him to engage with a range of policy areas, reflecting his interests and the needs of his constituents.

Policy focus and district

Gerry Scharfenberger represents the 13th Legislative District in New Jersey, which is part of a broader legislative structure that includes one senator and two assembly members for each of the state's 40 districts. Alongside fellow Republican representatives, Senator Declan O'Scanlon and Assemblyman Vicky Flynn, Scharfenberger works to address the concerns and needs of the district's residents.

The 13th District encompasses a diverse community with a range of interests and issues. Scharfenberger's policy focus includes environmental concerns, higher education, and regulated professions, which are reflected in his committee assignments. His background in archaeology and local governance informs his approach to environmental issues, particularly those related to land use and historical preservation.

Scharfenberger's political career has been characterized by his commitment to local governance and community engagement. His experience as a local elected official provides him with insights into the specific needs of his constituents, which he aims to address through his legislative work. He continues to advocate for policies that align with the interests of the residents of the 13th District, drawing on his extensive background in public service and local leadership.

In his personal life, Scharfenberger is married to Geraldine and has two children, Alannah and Dan. His family is also involved in public service, with his son-in-law, Tony Perry, currently serving as the Mayor of Middletown and having previously held the position of Chief of Staff for state senator Joe Kyrillos. Scharfenberger's son, Dan, is noted for his work as a Republican Party strategist in New Jersey, indicating a family connection to political engagement and public service.

Overall, Gerry Scharfenberger's career reflects a blend of local governance, academic involvement, and legislative service, positioning him as a significant figure in New Jersey politics. His ongoing work in the General Assembly continues to shape the legislative landscape of the 13th District and beyond.