Mine Hill councilman looks back on unorthodox run

When Rockaway Borough Sgt. Conrad Pepperman thinks back on the last few months, on his route to winning a seat on the Mine Hill Township Council, he reflects on an unlikely path and his own perseverance.

He is relieved the race is over, but it hasn't quite sunk in.

"I almost feel like someone is going to call me and say, "You're not done, you got to go do something else.' " Pepperman said.

He exhales, as if still recovering from the effort, and chooses his words carefully.

"It wasn't an easy road, but then again life isn't easy."

Pepperman filed a petition to run in the Mine Hill Republican primary but was soon informed of a Rockaway ordinance that forbade borough employees from seeking elected office.

Pepperman sued the borough, claiming his constitutional rights were being violated.

Superior Court Judge Theodore Bozonelis agreed, but Pepperman said the hard work was just beginning.

The political neophyte went door to door, listening to residents' complaints and concerns and trying to learn the best ways to effect change.

He impressed local GOP chair Sam Morris with his determination and enthusiasm.

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