Election Forum

For the Oct. 8 issue.

Candidate pleased to report

progress on state tax reform

To the editor:
   
As I reviewed comments made by myself in last year’s campaign, I recall one priority — to lobby with the state legislature for a constitutional convention to address property tax reform.
   I am pleased to note that the Governor has appointed a 15-member property tax convention task force that is holding public hearings throughout the state. This task force plans to issue its report by Dec. 31.
   This report will contain recommendations and draft legislation to implement the convening of a constitutional convention. If the state legislature passes the enabling legislation, the voters will have an opportunity in November 2005 to decide about the convention and its recommendations.
   Hopefully, Hightstown property tax payers, along with the rest of the state, will finally see real property tax reform. I will continue my efforts in this endeavor.

The writer is a Democratic Borough Council member, seeking reelection.

Strong ‘pay-to-play’ law clearly makes most sense

To the editor:
   
Why wouldn’t you support the strongest possible "pay-to-play" ordinance?
   Hightstown is at a pivotal point in its development. The redevelopment process at the old rug mill is moving forward. Inquiries are being made regarding the Minute Maid property. Enchantment, our active adult community, is coming. Developers are interested in our town. Why? Location, Location, Location. We are centrally located with easy access to public transportation and major interstate highways.
   We are in a dynamic environment in Hightstown. There are many complex issues facing us with redevelopment, stabilizing taxes and continuing to improve the quality of life for our residents. We need to be able to grasp complex concepts and processes quickly, engage professional expertise where needed and take action.
   We need to make sure the interests of our town are of utmost importance independent of politics. Politics has no place at the local level. What matters is the good of the community we serve. Several months ago I attended an informational presentation given at Borough Hall by Assemblymen Michael Panter and Robert Morgan for the various pay-to-play bills pending in the Assembly. These bills seemed to have some teeth in them. Unfortunately, our state legislators in their infinite wisdom replaced these teeth with dentures.
   The best way to change things is to concentrate in areas where we can have the most impact. Where would this be? At the local level of course. Let’s craft the strongest possible pay-to-play ordinance we can from those gathered by the mayor and our borough attorney and show that Hightstown leads. Why would you even consider any other alternative?

The writer is a Republican candidate for Borough Council.

Jurgens, Byrne support community organizations

To the editor:
   
Actions speak louder than words, and the actions of Jim Jurgens and Paul Byrne speak volumes about the character of these two extraordinary individuals. Both have lived lives of strong commitment and service to their community. Fortunately for us, it has been Hightstown. Fortunately for us, we have an opportunity to keep them involved by electing them to Borough Council.
   Jim Jurgens, as an EMT, a certified CPR and First Aid Instructor, immediately signed up for CERTS, our Community Emergency Response Team, which in this post-9/11 era, protects and aids the citizens of Hightstown Borough whenever called upon. He also has brought his considerable knowledge regarding housing and real estate development to the Planning/Zoning Board as well.
   Paul Byrne serves on the Planning/Zoning Board as well as the Parks & Recreation Commission, the Environmental Commission and the Hightstown/East Windsor Joint Pathway Committee. In addition to these commitments, he is also an active member of the Brain Injury Association of New Jersey and a member of the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill.
   As a member of the Hightstown Engine Co No. 1 Ladies Auxiliary, I know the importance of strong support for our community’s organizations. These men understand that as well; after all, they’ve been a part of many community organizations, themselves!
   We need such committed people on Borough Council. I urge you to vote for Jim Jurgens and Paul Byrne; they will enhance the council with their knowledge, compassion and community spirit.

Sikorski, Thompson smartly asked difficult questions

To the editor:
   
I agree with Mr. Moffa’s Sept. 7 editorial: Residents must keep an eye on the mill. More than anything else we’re doing, the redevelopment of the mill (and soon, Minute Maid) will determine the borough’s long-term future. We do need active involvement from our citizens to make sure we get it right.
   That’s why we must keep Patrick Thompson and Walter Sikorski on Borough Council.
   From their seats on council, they have asked tough questions about the Redevelopment Plan. They have studied the plan, and made sure their concerns were addressed. They have taken principled stands to slow the process when necessary. They have led us by example, helping to open up the debate.
   For sure, we should ask our fellow citizens to watch carefully — that’s what a healthy democracy is all about. But we must demand it of our council members. Walter Sikorski and Patrick Thompson have met and exceeded that demand in their time on council. They have earned the privilege and responsibility of staying.
   But don’t vote for them because they’ve earned it. Vote for them because we need their sharp eyes on our business, and their willing hands to make things right when need be.