Edward F. Nelson Jr., of Robbinsville
In November 2004, residents of Robbinsville voted to change their government from a committee to a mayor-council form. The mayor, elected for four years, would have the ability to make and implement long-term plans and would be held accountable for the results.
In May 2005, Dave Fried became our first elected mayor. Fried identified a number of initiatives, communicated to him by residents, including open and accountable government, cost-effective services, open space preservation, economic development and residential growth management.
In 2009, the results clearly show that Fried has led Robbinsville on a positive course. Fiscal accountability has been restored in the Fire Department. Municipal taxes have remained stable, with Robbinsville having the lowest tax-rate growth in Mercer County. Over 500 acres of strategic open space, including the Herman-Updike farm in the historic Windsor village, have been preserved, permanently removing hundreds of homes from development. Commercial development has grown by millions of square feet, helping to offset the tax burden.
Most important, Fried set the standard for an open and accountable government. He and the staff are accessible, professional and committed to honestly and effectively delivering services to Robbinsville.
Mayor Fried is now running for re-election on his record of achievement. Fried’s challenger barks about transparency, however, she voted against a township ordinance to limit how close to schools convicted child-molesters could live.
Fried has exceeded expectations serving the residents of Robbinsville. Dave brings leadership, accountability and vision to the office of the mayor. Help keep Robbinsville moving forward by re-electing Dave Fried on Tuesday, May 12.
Editor’s note: Mr. Nelson is a former member of the Township Committee and Planning Board and was a core member of Washington First, a group that led the effort to change the township’s form of government.

