Primary Candidates 2026: Alice Plastoris

Attorney Alice Plastoris is a lifelong Dover resident, former Public Defender, and Ward 3 hopeful.

Alice Plastoris is a lifelong resident and a former Dover Public Defender, poised to serve all residents. (Photo/Alice Plastoris)

Alice Plastoris is running for the Ward 3 Town Council seat presently held by Veronica Velez. In her bio, Plastoris says, "As a lifelong resident and daughter of a lifelong resident, I bring deep roots in the community and a strong understanding of our town's history and values. An attorney and former Public Defender for the Town of Dover, she has more than 30 years of professional experience backing up her run for Council.

I am committed to thoughtful decision-making and protecting the interests of Dover's residents and local businesses as the town plans for its future. I am proud to run as part of Team Dover, united by a shared vision to Reform, Restore, and Rebuild."

1. What led you to run for Council?

I believe a public servant should serve the public, not his/her own self-interest. In my career as a lawyer, I have served the public in various capacities, through NJ Supreme Court Committee appointments addressing public issues and pro bono cases representing low-income individuals and domestic violence victims. I want to bring back civility, transparency, and fiscal responsibility to our municipal government, as part of a Council that works for all residents of Dover, not only a few.

2. What specifically qualifies you to serve your constituents?

I was born and raised in Dover and am a lifelong resident. My father was born in Dover in 1926 to immigrant parents. I have seen the changes, good and bad, to the town over the years. As an attorney and former Municipal Public Defender in the Town of Dover, I have more than 30 years of professional experience that qualifies me to serve my neighbors in the Third Ward.

3. What do you think is the most important issue for Third Ward residents?

The most important issue I hear from my neighbors is related to rising property taxes. They, like me, have no problem paying for services. But, at least for the last few years, it doesn't seem like we are getting any return on our investment. I'll focus on that, making sure we spend our tax dollars soundly and that we use them for things like road improvements that are desperately needed in certain areas of the Ward.

4. What do you see your role as a Council member entailing?

It's pretty simple: a Council Member is elected to listen to residents, serve the public honorably, and to smartly and reasonably tackle the issues facing the Town.

5. What is the most important trait or skill you will bring to Council?

I have 30 years of professional experience as a lawyer, which will allow me to understand complex information, advocate for my constituents and the residents of the Town of Dover, and find reasonable solutions to solve the problems facing the Town.