Singh Sworn In as Franklin Township's New Ward 1 Councilman, Vows Accessibility, Equity and Service

Shubhendu Singh appointed to fill vacant seat, pledges to be available, accessible and work collaboratively with community

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Shubhendu Singh was unanimously appointed and sworn in as Franklin Township's new Ward 1 councilman, stepping into the seat vacated by former Councilman Ed Potosnak. Singh, who described public service as a way of life in his family, vowed to focus on health, safety, quality of life and equal access to essential services across the community.

Why it matters

The appointment of Singh restores representation in Ward 1 and underscores the importance of accessible, equitable and collaborative leadership at the local government level. Franklin Township has faced challenges with high turnover on the council, making Singh's commitment to being available and working together with the community particularly significant.

The details

Singh was one of three candidates nominated by the departing member's political party for consideration by the full council. Following a public comment period, the governing body voted unanimously to select Singh, who was then sworn in by the Somerset County Clerk. Singh shared a personal story of losing his family's home of 25 years to a fire, which he said strengthened his connection to the community and commitment to public service.

  • On February 12, 2026, Shubhendu Singh was unanimously appointed and sworn in as Franklin Township's new Ward 1 councilman.

The players

Shubhendu Singh

The newly appointed Ward 1 councilman for Franklin Township, who comes from a family with a history of public service.

Ed Potosnak

The former Ward 1 councilman who recently resigned after accepting an appointment as Director of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.

Phillip Kramer

The mayor of Franklin Township who explained the township's procedure for appointing a new council member.

Steve Peter

The Somerset County Clerk who administered the oath of office to Shubhendu Singh.

Shanel Robinson

The Somerset County Commissioner Deputy Director who attended Singh's swearing-in ceremony.

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What they’re saying

“Serving on the council is an honor and a big responsibility, and I accept that responsibility with a deep sense of gratitude and humility.”

— Shubhendu Singh, Newly Appointed Ward 1 Councilman (tapinto.net)

“It is about showing up. It is about listening to our community. It is about working hard — even when no one is watching. It is about integrity, and it is about trust — trust that must be earned over time.”

— Shubhendu Singh, Newly Appointed Ward 1 Councilman (tapinto.net)

“Health, safety and quality of life should not be determined by the zip code you live in. Access to essential services must be equal across our community.”

— Shubhendu Singh, Newly Appointed Ward 1 Councilman (tapinto.net)

“We are all part of the same team. The best outcomes happen when we work together.”

— Shubhendu Singh, Newly Appointed Ward 1 Councilman (tapinto.net)

“I'm going to be around. I'm going to be available. I'm going to be accessible. Together, we will do what it takes to take our ward and our township to the next level.”

— Shubhendu Singh, Newly Appointed Ward 1 Councilman (tapinto.net)

What’s next

With Singh officially seated, Ward 1 regains representation as the council moves into the year's regular legislative agenda.

The takeaway

Singh's appointment and his commitment to accessibility, equity and collaborative leadership underscores the importance of engaged, accountable local government officials who are responsive to the needs of their communities.