I am referring to the article announcing the findings of the Commission of Investigation, which states that Edison is one of many municipalities in New Jersey that does not know how to negotiate a contract and consequently spending "our" taxes in a reckless manner. As far back as the mid-1990s, the administration borrowed approximately $4.1 million to take care of contracts.
This is really a travesty because Edison is now the second highest ratable in New Jersey. This means — because of the enormous amount of businesses in Edison, Edison collects the second highest amount of taxes in this state. In the ’90s when the administration borrowed over $4 million, we collected more tax dollars than any other community in New Jersey. Yes, in the ’90s we were No. 1 in ratables. So, we ask — why was it necessary to borrow money? Because the administration, and I believe it was George Spadoro’s, gave the store away. Yes, they gave all these perks away and we are still dealing with it.
In January a new administration will be in place. I, for one, pray that all the goodies will be taken out of the budget, that all raises will be put on hold, and that the administration will support the Hartz Mountain Route project so that Edison can benefit from the ratables on that site. By benefit, I mean possibly, just possibly, have a year when taxes do not go up. We are in a recession, wherein the number of people at the food pantries has increased, people are losing their homes, etc. We look to our leaders to help us, and that can be done by not increasing any taxes, fees, etc. The previous administration once said Edison is open for business. Well, we all know that wasn’t exactly true. I do hope that the new administration will welcome new business so people can be hired, will entice the existing companies to stay in Edison so that our tax base will continue to grow. Businesses provide jobs, are good community members and they have purchase power.
Every November we, the people, have the opportunity to change things. If someone is not doing what is best for the people — watching the money — they should be removed from office.
We are all in this together, so let’s be a lot more considerate of each other’s plight.
Gloria S. Dittman
Edison