TINTON FALLS, New Jersey – Mayor Risa Clay, Councilmen Greg Alessi and Kash Parikh, and lifelong resident Larry Neis have formally announced their joint campaign to seek the offices of Mayor and Borough Council of Tinton Falls under the banner of Team Tinton Falls.

Clay, a former Red Bank Regional Principal, currently serves as the Mayor of Tinton Falls. Previously elected to the Borough Council twice, once in 2019 and again in 2023, she was appointed unanimously in March of 2025 following the passing of America’s oldest Mayor, Vito Perillo. Mayor Clay has been laying the groundwork to set Tinton Falls up for long-term success since being elevated to the mayor’s office. Under her leadership, the Borough has reduced the municipal tax rate, developed a fiscally responsible budget, committed resources to our parks and recreation programs and was awarded $325,000 in grant money benefiting multiple nonprofit programs including our sports programs, library and first responders. Clay’s continued leadership will ensure that Tinton Falls will continue to prosper in the coming years.

“At this pivotal moment for Tinton Falls, it is essential to elect leaders with a clear vision and a commitment to bringing our diverse community together,” said Mayor Risa Clay. “As a resident of Tinton Falls for 30 years, I am proud of all this town has given my family. I remain dedicated to strong and thoughtful leadership that preserves and enhances our quality of life for both current and future generations. I look forward to continuing to serve and advocate for all of Tinton Falls.”

Clay’s running mates, Alessi, Neis, and Parikh, all bring unique professional and personal experiences to the table, making the Team Tinton Falls ticket complimentary, balanced, and fully representative of all Tinton Falls residents. As a ticket in a nonpartisan town, this ticket is uniquely bipartisan which is critical in local politics.

Alessi, a lifelong resident and residential real estate agent, currently serves as a Councilman in Tinton Falls. He was unanimously appointed in December 2024 following the sudden passing of Councilman John Manginelli. Alessi has built his life around giving back to the community through public service and philanthropy. In addition to his role on the Council, he actively supports the Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) and leads two annual charitable drives during the holiday season.

“Tinton Falls has always been home to my family, and my goal is to ensure that the next generation of residents can live, thrive, and raise their children and grandchildren here. With my background in real estate, I am committed to smart development, sustainability, and preserving the unique character of Tinton Falls. I am passionate about serving with integrity and dignity, so our hardworking neighbors can trust that their borough government is managed with transparency, accountability, and approachability.

Neis, a lifelong resident of Tinton Falls, has proudly resided for over six decades. Deeply devoted to public service, Neis has dedicated much of his life to protecting his community. A member of Northside Engine Company #4 since 1982 and Wayside Fire Department #2 since 2004, he served as fire chief and earned life membership in both departments. He is also a former Fire Commissioner of District #1 and currently serves as Chairman of the Tinton Falls Memorial Day Committee, continuing his legacy of civic engagement. "I am incredibly proud of the work our team has accomplished on the Council, and I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to keep Tinton Falls a safe, secure, and thriving community. My goal is simple: to ensure that our town remains a place where safety, civic pride, and the well-being of every resident are always prioritized. With my experience as an operations manager and my lifelong commitment to this community, I will continue to advocate for the issues that matter most to our residents. Together, we will keep moving forward and build an even stronger Tinton Falls for generations to come."

Parikh, a New Jersey native, is a current Tinton Falls Councilman and serves as Liaison to the Board of Education. With over 20 years of experience managing strategic relationships with top-tier investment firms, he brings financial insight, practical problem-solving, and a collaborative mindset to local government. Additionally, Parikh is a small business owner with direct experience navigating local economic and housing issues, giving him a firsthand perspective on affordability, smart growth, and the need for responsible development.

Parikh was unanimously appointed to the Council in April 2025 following the appointment of Council President Risa Clay to Mayor. Prior to joining the Council, he served on the Tinton Falls Zoning Board and Chicken Advisory Board, and has been actively involved with organizations including the Community FoodBank of New Jersey and Habitat for Humanity. These experiences have deepened his belief in the power of service and his desire to lead with purpose.

“Tinton Falls is more than just where I live, it’s where my wife and I chose to raise our three young children, and where we’ve found true community and connection. As a first-generation Indian American raised in a small business household that prioritized public service, I was taught to value hard work, integrity, and giving back, principles my family lives by today. I’m running for Council because I care deeply about the future of our town. I want to keep Tinton Falls affordable for families, safe for our children, and responsive to the needs of our residents, while protecting our quality of life, supporting our first responders, and ensuring this remains a place we’re all proud to call home.”