Transparency is More Than a Slogan

Campaign Transparency Matters:
Following the Rules We All Agreed To

Disclaimer:
This article is based solely on publicly available information, including the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC) database as of October 8, 2025, and publicly displayed campaign materials observed within Mansfield Township. All photos and records cited are verifiable public documents. The purpose of this article is to promote transparency and informed civic participation. It does not allege, imply, or assert that any individual or campaign has violated state or federal law. All statements reflect the author’s personal opinions and interpretations of publicly available facts, expressed in the capacity of a private citizen and not as an elected official or representative of the Township of Mansfield. Readers are encouraged to verify all information through official state records at https://www.elec.nj.gov independently.

As residents of Mansfield Township, we all want a local government and campaigns that operate with honesty, transparency, and fairness. Campaign season brings out signs, slogans, and promises, but it should also bring out the facts.

Over the past few weeks, new red “WRITE-IN Desiree Mora-Dillon” signs have appeared throughout Mansfield. These signs feature various styles and materials, including yard signs and banners, and appear professionally printed, except that they are missing the required "Paid for By" disclaimer.

At the same time, the candidate, Desiree Mora-Dillon, has made public claims on Facebook stating:

“I’m funding my own campaign. I don’t ask for donations, and I won’t take any, now or ever. I serve the taxpayers, not special interests.”

That is an admirable statement, and it is one every voter should want to see backed by verifiable records.

Under New Jersey election law, all campaign expenditures and contributions must be reported to the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission (ELEC). These filings ensure transparency and public trust, regardless of whether a campaign is self-funded or donor-supported.

The 29-day pre-election report for the 2025 General Election was due on October 6, 2025. However, a public search of the ELEC database on October 9, 2025, shows no recorded campaign expenses for Desiree Mora Dillon, despite the visible printing and distribution of campaign materials across the township. It has been an ongoing pattern with this campaign, as you can see in other campaign materials shared digitally on social media and township groups that are also missing the required disclosure statement of "Paid for By:".

So, When Asked For Comment?

When questioned about the campaign funding for the communications to our residents, this was her response.

It is an unusual response from an incumbent and elected official who receives a paycheck funded by taxpayers. When asked for transparency regarding her campaign materials and funding so that all candidates can play by the same state laws and standards, the response was not openness but defensiveness. The very values she claims to stand for, such as integrity and accountability, are now called into question by her actions. A campaign that speaks about transparency should have no issue demonstrating it through compliance with election law, proper signage disclosures, and timely public reporting. Anything less weakens the trust that voters place in their representatives.

To answer her question, one she should already know, being an elected official, you can find all that information on elec.nj.gov
Go to "Public Info", click "View a Report", "View Candidate Report" and then enter the information.

You can find my election information by entering BOLLARD MICHAEL or MANSFIELD FOR MIKE BOLLARD

Why This Matters

Transparency is not partisan. It is essential. Every campaign, whether self-funded or supported by donors, has a legal obligation to disclose its expenses and contributions. This ensures a level playing field and protects voters’ right to know who is influencing their local elections.

If campaign signs and materials appeared just before the 29-day reporting deadline, that raises additional questions about timing and compliance. Were in-kind or personal contributions properly reported?

These are not accusations. They are questions that every transparent campaign should be eager to answer. Since we filed the complaint against the campaign on October 2nd, 2025, with NJ ELEC, maybe they can provide more clarity to the Election Commission.

Questions You Should Be Asking

• If a sitting official does not follow the rules during an election, how can residents be sure those rules will be respected once in office?

• How can voters trust calls for integrity and accountability if basic transparency requirements are not being met?

• Where are all the campaign expenses and contributions?

• Who is funding this campaign?

• Is there election meddling going on? (See the article related to campaign signs and the zoning department)

On November 4th, Mansfield has a choice between politics as usual and a commitment to honesty, accountability, and transparency. My promise to every resident is simple: I will follow the same laws I expect others to follow, serve with integrity, and always put our community first. Together, we can raise the standard of leadership in Mansfield and restore trust in local government.

Vote Mike Bollard for Township Committee on November 4th, and let’s move our town forward the right way.