Three-term Ocean County Clerk Scott Colabella will not seek re-election in 2024 and plans to retire at the end of the year, the NJ Globe reports.
Colabella’s decision marks the end of a decades-long career in Ocean County politics, leaving Deputy County Clerk John Catalano, a former assemblyman, as the likely interim replacement. Catalano would serve as acting county clerk until Governor Phil Murphy appoints a successor, subject to State Senate confirmation, to fill the role until the November 2025 election results are certified.
The race to replace Colabella is already generating speculation. County Commissioners John P. Kelly and Gary Quinn are seen as potential candidates, with Kelly emerging as the early favorite, according to the Globe.
Kelly has served as an Ocean County commissioner for 32 years. If Kelly secures the clerk position, he is expected to forgo re-election to his current seat. Quinn recently opted not to run for a third term as commissioner.
Additionally, it remains unclear if Commissioner Virginia Haines will seek re-election. Haines, a former assemblywoman and state lottery director, has faced political challenges, including a falling out with Ocean County GOP Chairman George Gilmore.
Colabella is a veteran of Ocean County politics, having joined the County Clerk’s office in 1993 and winning his first election as clerk in 2010. His career spans roles as executive assistant to former County Clerk Dean Haines, deputy council clerk, and executive director of the Ocean County Republican Organization.