Primary Candidates 2026: Elizabeth Tapia

Ward 4 candidate is a lifelong Dover resident who promises to be an advocate for 'practical solutions, transparency, and responsible decision-making.'

Elizabeth Tapia is vying for the Ward 4 Democratic nomination to run for Town Council. (Photo/Elizabeth Tapia)

EDITOR'S NOTE: Elizabeth Tapia, who is running for the expiring term held by Ward 4 incumbent Marcos Tapia. Marcos Tapia (D-Ward 4) did not respond to requests to answer the Dover Town Council candidate questionnaire.

Candidate Elizabeth Tapia is a lifelong resident of Dover’s Fourth Ward and a proud graduate of Dover High School’s Class of 2022. She earned her degree in Government and Politics from Fairleigh Dickinson University in 2025, with a focus on public policy and civic engagement.

She currently works with the Morris County Organization for Hispanic Affairs, continuing a path of service rooted in her community. Through this role, she has supported local families and community members while deepening her commitment to advocacy and service. She also works in regulatory compliance, focusing on policy, accountability, and ensuring organizations follow proper procedures. Elizabeth serves on Dover's Educational Foundation and remains actively engaged in issues impacting students, families, and young people. She grew up with a strong sense of resilience, hard work, and community, which continues to guide her commitment to public service.

1. What led you to run for Council? I first started attending our town council meetings two years ago, asking questions, researching what neighboring towns were doing, and trying to understand why so many concerns raised by residents seemed to be dismissed or overlooked. As someone who grew up in this community, I care deeply about the people here, the future of our town, and especially the younger generation that will one day lead it. I believe our town can continue to grow and improve, but that growth must be thoughtful and responsible. We need leadership that asks tough questions, carefully reviews development proposals, and negotiates agreements that truly benefit residents rather than simply approving projects without accountability. The decisions being made today will directly impact the young people and families who will continue living on these streets for generations to come. My passion for community advocacy began long before this campaign. As a student, I fought to help create a Latino American Student Association at FDU because I understood that real change happens when people come together and make their voices heard. That experience taught me that the power has always been in the people, especially our youth, and that representation and community involvement matter. Over time, I realized that our residents deserve someone who will not only listen but also advocate for practical solutions, transparency, and responsible decision-making. That’s what ultimately led me to run for Council.

2. What specifically qualifies you to serve your constituents? Over the past several years, I have remained actively involved in our community by attending council meetings, researching local policies, speaking directly with residents, and advocating on issues impacting our neighborhoods. Through that involvement, I’ve developed a strong understanding of the concerns residents face and how local government decisions directly affect everyday life. Professionally, I work in regulatory compliance, where I help ensure organizations follow policies, procedures, and financial regulations while also assisting with drafting and implementing internal policies. That experience has strengthened my attention to detail, accountability, and understanding of how effective policy can directly impact communities and organizations. In addition to my professional experience, I studied government and politics with a focus on public policy, civic engagement, and community advocacy. My experience working with nonprofit organizations has also allowed me to work closely with vulnerable populations and better understand the importance of responsive leadership and public service. Growing up in this town, working locally from a young age, and staying consistently engaged with residents has given me both the personal connection and practical experience needed to effectively represent our community.

1. What do you think is the most important issue for Fourth Ward residents? Parking congestion is one of the biggest concerns facing Fourth Ward residents and something I consistently hear about when speaking with neighbors. Families should not have to struggle every single day to find parking near their homes. For many residents, especially working families, seniors, and parents with children, parking is not just an inconvenience; it directly impacts their daily routines, safety, and peace of mind. While this issue has been discussed for years, residents are looking for thoughtful and realistic solutions that actually address overcrowding and protect our neighborhoods without placing unnecessary burdens on working families. I believe we need to take a closer look at overdevelopment, strengthen communication with residents, and ensure that any future decisions being made truly reflect the needs of the people already living here. Most importantly, I believe we need to work directly with residents to create solutions that make sense, specifically for Ward 4. Every neighborhood has different concerns, and residents deserve leadership that listens, collaborates, and advocates for practical long-term solutions rather than temporary fixes.

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

I see the role of a Council member as being accessible, transparent, and truly present within the community. A Council member’s responsibility goes far beyond simply voting on policies during meetings. It means actively listening to residents, communicating openly about decisions being made, and making sure the concerns of the community are being taken seriously and addressed thoughtfully. To me, being a Council member also means advocating for smart development, protecting the quality of life of our neighborhoods, supporting our youth and working families, and ensuring that growth within our town benefits the people who already call it home. I want residents to feel informed, respected, and confident that their voices matter. Most importantly, I want people to know they have someone who will consistently show up for them, remain engaged with the community, and work in the best interest of residents rather than for personal or political gain.

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

The most important thing I bring is a fresh perspective, a strong commitment to our community, and a genuine passion for serving the residents of Ward 4. As the daughter of a single immigrant mother who has lived in Dover for over 45 years, I understand the sacrifices, resilience, and hard work that built so many families in our town. Those experiences shaped the way I view community, service, and the importance of making sure every resident feels heard and represented. My experiences working with nonprofit organizations, studying government and politics, and working in regulatory compliance have given me valuable insight into advocacy, policy, and accountability. But above all, I bring a willingness to listen, stay engaged, and work directly with residents to ensure that decisions are made in the best interests of the community. I believe our town deserves leadership that is approachable, transparent, and truly invested in the future of Dover and the next generation growing up here.