MAYS LANDING – Jim Schroeder, 59, of Port Republic announced his intention to seek the Democratic nomination for Atlantic County freeholder at large Monday, March 24.
A lifelong Atlantic County resident, Schroeder retired in 2006 as director of government relations for the New Jersey Education Association. He spent 15 years as a councilman in Port Republic and was council president for the last 14 before leaving office in 2005.  From 1970-1985, he taught English and social studies in Egg Harbor Township public schools.
“I have a long-abiding interest in public service and public policy and the time and energy to work hard on behalf of all of our residents,” Schroeder said in a press release. “I believe that my background as a municipal official, educator and government relations professional will prove helpful in meeting the many challenges facing our county at this time.”
“We need to be proactive in ensuring that the economic vitality of Atlantic City is maintained and promoted while addressing the ever-worsening transportation and congestion problems across our county,” he continued. “Given what is happening at the federal and state levels, we must be vigilant in county and municipal governments to conduct the people’s business in an efficient and fiscally responsible manner.  In addition, I believe county government can do more to assist local governments in sharing services and reducing the local property tax burden.”
Schroeder has served on several advisory boards, including the New Jersey Fairness Alliance, the New Jersey Society for the Environment and Economic Development, and the Policy Center of New Jersey.  He holds a bachelor of arts degree in history and a master of arts in English from Rowan University and a master of science in industrial relations and human resources from Rutgers University.
He and his wife, Beverly, have four children and four grandchildren.