Reader Submitted
To the editor:
My wife Erica and I have been Hopewell Township residents for 32 years. And I have been a champion of the #EatLocal #BuyLocal #ShopMoreLocal movement, as a local realtor, small businessman and a member of the Economic Development commission for 10 years.
At the local level, I have seen how much leadership matters.
This includes the commitment to envision and build a better future for Hopewell Valley, as well as the drive to consistently move key initiatives forward. There are many folks who want to move the township ahead, but few who ultimately succeed.
That’s why I am proud to endorse Kevin Kuchinski and Michael Ruger for Hopewell Township Committee. I have worked closely with Kevin over the past two years as I have started up Sourland Mountain Spirits, NJ’s first farm distillery since prohibition. Kevin has lead our brand positioning efforts, and has helped build the business’s P&L from the ground up – this is a guy who clearly knows his numbers.
I have also seen Kevin and Michael take charge of our township finances, fighting unfunded state mandates and working hard to do more with less. Over the past two years, our municipal tax change has been brought down to 1.1 percent per year, well below the state’s 2 percent cap and even the rate of inflation. They have helped cut over $2 million dollars in operating expenses.
Looking ahead, we have much more to do to build on the #EatLocal #BuyLocal movement. We can promote valley treasures that draw visitors to our local farm markets, restaurants and businesses, as well as our parks, extensive walking/biking trails and historic sites.
I know Kevin and Michael have our backs, and will work to support local business and increase agro-tourism, break down un-needed regulation, and keep taxes low.
On November 7, please join me in supporting Kevin Kuchinski and Michael Ruger for Hopewell Township Committee.
Ray Disch
CEO and Founder, Sourland Mountain Spirits
Hopewell Township
