Over the past few weeks we’ve been witness to a flurry of histrionics from Upper Freehold officials and others resigning their posts over the continued efforts of our true leaders to address the most pressing policy issue facing our township.
Mayor [John] Mele’s renewed push for an increase in minimum lot size zoning was a surprise to no one. The mayor has been advocating a change of this nature for a long time. Committeeman Dave Horsnall has also been seeking this type of change. In fact, increased zoning was one of the most prominent issue in last year’s election which saw Committeemen [Steve] Alexander and [Salvatore] Diecidue sweep into office.
So what was different about this most recent effort to further this important issue? The Planning Board had the votes this time to advance the issue, that’s what was so different. This time, the majority of the Planning Board members voted to allow this issue to proceed to a public hearing. Opponents of larger lot-size zoning couldn’t bury the effort as they had so many times before.
I echo the sentiments of many residents — new and longtime residents alike — when I say thank you to Mayor Mele, Committeeman Horsnall and the rest of the majority of the Planning Board for advancing this issue to the next step in the process.
Upper Freehold is as sure to be built out as the sun is likely to rise tomorrow. What these community leaders understand is that future development must be undertaken in a more gradual, planned and well-thought-out manner.
The rapid increase in the number of residents to the town has placed an enormous stress on the school system. Local property taxpayers now face the daunting prospect of continued property tax shock as new school facilities and other infrastructure needs must accommodate this growth. Remaining on our current pace of new development will ensure that taxes keep rising. This prospect has the potential to disproportionately impact those residents who have been here the longest.
It is unfortunate that public displays and tantrums detract from the otherwise valid concerns of large landowners and our farmers. The public would be better served by rational dialogue and debate where consensus could be possible and new ideas developed. The entrenched "no increase in zoning ever" mentality unnecessarily stifles creativity and compromise.
I applaud the leadership of Mayor Mele and Committeeman Horsnall for having the courage of their convictions and for continuing to advocate their beliefs in an open and honest manner. Their commitment to the Country Code — the very attribute that attracted many of us to this township in the first place — is admirable.
Marc V. Buro
Allentown