To the editor:
It has been my distinct honor to have served for three years on the Hopewell Township Committee. I made many friends, and, even more than before, I came to understand what makes our township so special.
First and foremost, I must thank my family for their unwavering support under challenging circumstances. I also thank my campaign volunteers and supporters, who worked so hard on my behalf. And, of course, I sincerely thank the voters who came out to vote in this election.
I wish my opponent, Julie Blake, an interesting term as she embarks upon the next three years. There are issues of enormous importance on the immediate horizon, and we all count on her to show the independence of thought and action that has helped to sustain our township.
I am concerned that the election itself was tainted by abhorrent, end-of-campaign mailings that grossly distorted my record. The election result will stand, but I ask the press and our informed citizenry to investigate the truth and to focus on who financed and perpetrated these actions.
My commitment to good, open government, my fight for limited development, and my passion for strict financial discipline has not ended with this election loss. After attending every Township Committee meeting for three years and working as hard as ever until my term ends, I will stay active and speak out from time to time about the issues. Our government works best when citizens remain vigilant.
Harvey Lester
Hopewell Township
