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Volume 28 • Issue 49 hammontongazette . com Wednesday , December 4 , 2024
So , it begins Two announce early candidacies for Hammonton Mayor
TOM GRIBBIN
BY CRAIG RICHARDS GAZETTE PUBLISHER
HAMMONTON — The Town of Hammonton is gearing up for a pivotal moment in its political landscape as two local individuals have officially announced their candidacy for mayor . This marks the beginning of what is expected to be a highly anticipated and contested race , as residents eagerly await the chance to choose a new leader . The mayoral seat , held by Stephen DiDonato for the past 14 years , represents more than just a title ; it carries significant responsibility in shaping the future of the community . With DiDonato ’ s long tenure coming to an end , the role of mayor will undergo a major shift , influencing everything from local governance to council leadership .
Though the election is still over a year away , the early announcements signal the start of a dynamic campaign , with buzz already circulating throughout the town . As Hammontonians look ahead to November 2025 , more candidates are expected to throw their hats into the ring , further intensifying the competition . The mayor plays a central role in guiding the council , fostering community development , and
Shoppers support small businesses
Kristin Guglietti / THG
Several shopped till they dropped during Small Business Saturday . Local businesses throughout the downtown and uptown were busy as customers came in to make a purchase . Pictured above , Katie Winneberger shops at Tales of the Olive . See inside for more photos from Small Business Saturday . addressing the town ’ s most pressing issues , making this election one of great importance for the future of Hammonton . With high stakes ahead , all eyes are on the race to see who will take on this critical role .
Both candidates ’ press releases are published in this article in the order submitted . Additional announcements will be published as notified . Tom Gribbin Press Release Tom Gribbin is proud to announce his candidacy for mayor of the Town of Hammonton . Gribbin , a dedicated public servant who has served on town council for 13 years and as deputy mayor for the past 11 years alongside DiDonato , is ready to bring his proven leadership , vision , and commitment to the community to the forefront as Hammonton ’ s next mayor .
“ For 13 years , I have had the privilege of serving the people of Hammonton , working to
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strengthen our community and enhance the quality of life for all residents ,” Gribbin said . “ Together with Hammonton First , we ’ ve achieved incredible results , and I ’ m excited to continue building on that success .”
Gribbin expressed his deep gratitude to DiDonato , whose
PRESS RELEASE FOR THE GAZETTE
MAYS LANDING — On Monday , November 25 , Town of Hammonton Detective Sergeant Robert Zbikowski , 45 , from Hammonton , was charged with Second- Degree Official Misconduct , Second-Degree Crime of Pattern of Official Misconduct , Third-Degree Theft by Unlawfully Taking , Fourth-Degree Tampering with or Fabricating Physical Evidence , and Fourth-Degree Obstruction of Administration of Law .
In 2024 , the Town of Hammonton Police Department contacted the Atlantic County Prosecutor ’ s Office to advise Zbikowski failed his drug test , testing positive for methamphetamine . During the subsequent investigation , Zbikowski was found to have tampered with and taken narcotics items of evidence , to include methamphetamine and oxycodone , from the Hammonton Police Department ’ s evidence room .
impact on Hammonton has defined the town for a generation . “ Mayor DiDonato ’ s leadership and vision have shaped Hammonton into the vibrant community we know today . His unwavering dedication to our town has been nothing short of transformative ,” Gribbin said . “ As he passes the baton to the next generation , this moment represents an inflection point in our town ’ s history and of the progress we have made . We must move forward .”
Gribbin emphasized that Hammonton First has played a pivotal role in reviving the town . Through their efforts , the community has been reinvigorated , infrastructure has been strengthened , and a spirit of collaboration has flourished . However , there is still much more to accomplish , and Gribbin believes the work is far from over . Gribbin has a proven record of
See MAYOR RACE , Page 2
Hammonton Police Sergeant charged with official misconduct
This incident is currently being investigated by the Atlantic County Prosecutor ’ s Office ’ s Professional Standards and Accountability Unit .
* These charges are merely an accusation and not proof of guilt . In all criminal cases , a charged defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty .
Anyone with information about this case or other serious crimes are asked to call the Atlantic County Prosecutor ’ s Office Major Crime Unit at ( 609 ) 909-7666 or go to the Prosecutor ’ s Office Website at ACPO . Tips and provide information by filling out the form anonymously on the Submit a Tip page .
People can also call Crime Stoppers at ( 609 ) 652-1234 or 1 ( 800 ) 658-8477 ( TIPS ) or visit the Crime Stoppers Website at http :// www . crimestoppersatlantic . com /. Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards for information leading to the arrest and indictment of those who commit crimes in Atlantic County .
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