Franklin Lakes Mayor Election 2026
Republicans for responsible government
VOTE CHARLES J. KAHWATY
FOR MAYOR OF FRANKLIN LAKES
Kahwaty's Results for Franklin Lakes:
Maintained Franklin Lakes AAA bond rating, highest in the state
Preserved the lowest tax rate of any Bergen County municipality, after Alpine
Continued to reduce the debt obligations of the Borough, continuing a ten-year trend
Aggressively addressed our state-imposed affordable housing obligations, without abandoning our concerns about the impact on municipal infrastructure and services
Oversaw the opening of a revitalized Community Center, with expanded recreational services and café, in cooperation with Reed Academy
The Franklin Lakes Community Center has long been a gathering place for residents. In 2026, a first-of-its-kind partnership between the Borough of Franklin Lakes and REED Autism Services reimagined the Center as a place that not only serves the community but also expands job training and employment for teens and adults with autism.
Residents can work out, enjoy the cafe, and connect with neighbors, while program participants gain hands-on workplace experience in a real-world setting. At a time when an estimated 80–85% of autistic adults are unemployed or underemployed, creating meaningful pathways to employment has never been more important.
While the Community Center serves Franklin Lakes residents today, we hope its impact extends beyond the borough and helps shape what inclusive community spaces can look like.
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Meet the Mayor
For the past four years I have committed myself to maintaining the quality of life enjoyed by our residents. To that end, and working with my Council colleagues, I believe we have achieved that goal.
Charles J. Kahwaty
Mayor, Franklin Lakes