Aurelio (Al) Colina, Hopewell Township
Incumbents John Hart and Todd Brant have repeatedly voted for higher taxes and uncontrolled spending increases.
In the 1990’s, Mayor Hart pushed through a 27 percent tax increase. And the moment he got back in power, he increased spending another 9 percent in 2015. Despite campaign promises to control spending and debt three years ago, the township’s municipal tax levy has risen by 4.6 percent per year during John Hart’s and Todd Brant’s tenure (2.5 times faster than inflation) and debt service still consumes almost 1 in 4 tax dollars.
We’ve given Hart and Brant plenty of time to get something done, and all we’re left with are the empty promises they made three years ago, and a pledge to do better this time around. Once bitten, twice shy; it’s time for a change in township government.
Kristin McLaughlin and Michael Ruger will bring fresh voices to the Township Committee, fighting for more efficient government and lower taxes. They understand that the township is spending OUR money; they had new ideas for shared services with the boroughs and school district that will reduce the pressure on residential property taxes; and they are committed to cutting wasteful spending, while reinstating essential services like bulky waste.
That’s the type of change we need in Hopewell Township. If you want lower taxes and more efficient municipal government, please join me in voting for McLaughlin and Ruger for Hopewell Township Committee, on Nov. 8.
Aurelio (Al) Colina
Hopewell Township
