Terence Van Dzura Sworn-In As Township Councilman At-Large

Councilman Fills Vacated Seat Until Special Election in November

MONROE TOWNSHIP – February 3, 2021 – Terence “Terry” Van Dzura has been appointed as Councilman At-Large of Monroe Township filling the seat vacated by Stephen Dalina who was sworn-in as Township Mayor in January. 

Van Dzura is a 25-year resident of Monroe Township.  Through the years, he has been actively involved in coaching youth sports, including softball and basketball.  His son and daughter graduated from Monroe Township High School.  He presently serves as Chairman of the Monroe Township Planning Board. 

A special election will be held in November to elect the candidate who will fill the unexpired Councilman At-Large term of Stephen Dalina who was appointed Mayor on January 20. 

The Monroe Township Democratic Committee submitted three candidates and the Township Council selected Van Dzura.  He was nominated by Council Vice President, Elizabeth Schneider, who referred to Van Dzura as “fair but firm” in his dealings with planning board applicants.   

Van Dzura took the oath of office during the council’s regular meeting on February 1, pledging to listen to residents while making decisions in the best interest of the Township.  “We may not always agree, but I will always listen,” he said.  During his comments, Van Dzura thanked Mayor Dalina and Council for the honor. 

Van Dzura has been a licensed New Jersey attorney since 1981.  He is a former judicial law clerk and served as assistant Middlesex County prosecutor for three years.  VanDzura has served as an arbitrator for the Middlesex County Superior Court and also has served as the municipal prosecutor for the Township of Edison and Carteret Borough.  He is general counsel to a number of local homeowners’ associations.

Throughout his law career, Van Dzura has handled all aspects of personal injury claims and workers compensation matters.  In addition to being a successful business and real estate attorney, he has vast experience with criminal jury trials and municipal court cases.

Following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Van Dzura became a member of Trial Lawyers Care, which assisted 9/11 victim families on a pro bono basis.

Van Dzura attended Woodbridge High School and is a 1978 graduate of Rutgers University.  He earned his law degree from the New England Law in Boston and currently practices from his office in East Brunswick.