Last night before a crowd of about 100, the three candidates for Borough Council took an opportunity to clarify their positions on issues of concern to Metuchen residents: Managing a budget throughout the tumultuous economic times ahead, traffic, taxes, safety, development, and maintaining and improving upon the quality of life in our town.
Moderated by Ingrid Reed, Director of the New Jersey Project, Eagleton Institute of Politics at
The good news is that each council-hopeful believes there are no bad guys on the ballot and that Metuchen has three honorable and devoted candidates for the two vacating seats. So how is a voter to choose?
All candidates believe strongly in open government and support current council plans to have department heads justify all budget requests, line by line, as part of the budget approval process.
Justin Manley believes that a politician needs to listen and be a direct representative of the community he or she is serving. He sees his primary goal to be the preservation and maintenance of the high quality of life to which we've become accustomed.
Concerned over the 35% increase in the municipal tax rate since 2005 and the expansion of our debt to over $2 million, Justin would suggest improved long term planning through a budget approval process that includes departmental visions for the future -- 3,5,10 years out. He believes in a vibrant downtown for shopping, working, and gathering and would like to ensure that any traffic solutions include considerations for vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles.
Pete Cammarano sees balance in Metuchen as one of our greatest attributes and believes that local government must find a way to make things work "in the here and now" while setting a course for the future. Balancing our hopes and dreams with the reality of our circumstances, along with thoughtful and calculated growth, would be a priority.
He believes that the budget is by far the most pressing issue for the coming year and, while grueling, feels strongly that a line-by-line evaluation of the budget - verifying the necessity of each line item - is critical. A 15 year servant in state government, Pete would like to see Metuchen adopt the state's approach to a critical budget review: "Are we spending it because we really need to or because we've always done it that way?"
The belief that a strong and vibrant downtown is essential is also a priority item for Pete. Keeping vacancies to a minimum and working with the Chamber of Commerce to make it easier for new businesses to choose Metuchen is an important goal.
Tim Dacey hopes that voters consider his role in Metuchen's receipt of grants for the Myrtle Park and Charles Field restorations, as well as his work for community requested enhancements such as the four-way stop at the intersection of Main and Plainfield, when deciding on a candidate. Proud of other accomplishments while serving the council, such as improving and streamlining recycling requirements and working with the county on roads and health services, Tim explained how his experience in working with a variety of governmental agencies will benefit our municipality.
He stressed the probability of sustained fiscal difficulties as an estimated 300,000 NJ residents are predicted to lose their jobs between now and 2010. The loss of property and sales tax revenue will most likely have a great impact on our budget and so he proposes that we begin our budget process early. Tim explained that in Metuchen, taxes have risen at a rate below the state level. He feels strongly that Metuchen must leverage effectively in order to get its "fair share of aid from county and state resources."
When asked their opinions about a proposed outdoor performance structure in town, all candidates support it. All suggest the solicitation of private funding but view support of the arts as a benefit to the local business and residential communities.
Peter Cammarano added that he could not commit to borough financing but hopes it will be viewed as a focal point in the community.
Tim Dacey stated that the arts in Metuchen are what distinguish us from our neighboring towns.
What do the candidates envision for future development? All would work to attract business to downtown.
Tim would like to see retail development. He believes the mixed-use plans for the Stop and Shop and
Pete explained that the
Justin agreed. Also a strong proponent for a green square amidst any new development, he'd suggest considering the Halsey lot for development. As it sits on the opposite side of the railroad tracks, he sees development there as a means by which to disperse traffic more evenly.
Talking about the parking woes of
Traffic is an emotional issue for many Metuchen residents and each candidate agrees there are some problems. All see speeding and cutting-through our towns quiet residential streets to avoid lights or traffic as quality of life issues.
Pete feels strongly that simple solutions such as revised stop signs and four-way stops have proven to be effective and he commends the police department for enforcing local traffic violations.
Tim and Pete support the traffic circulation and engineering studies surrounding the Route 287/27 issues in order to be certain change is cost effective and offers the most relief.
Justin believes that the
In closing, Tim cautions that an economic slowdown will make it difficult for municipalities to provide services without raising taxes and that he and Pete have the experience needed in state government to ensure we're getting the most aid available. He believes volunteerism is essential to the quality of life in town, which is why he's worked hard to make Metuchen the community he loves, the community it is today.
Pete is grateful for a campaign that has been a tremendous and educational experience. He reminds us that democracy is not a spectator sport, which is why he's chosen to roll-up his sleeves and work in public service. He believes his experience in
Justin believes the campaign has taught him a great deal about himself and our town. In listening to citizens, he knows that we don't want our property taxes spiraling upward. He hopes the voters will consider which candidates might work best together with the council to act on behalf of the public good. Passionate about safeguarding the residents' voices, he believes he is that candidate.
With one last week to ask the candidates for answers to the questions that matter most to you, take the time to comment, ask, and then vote!
Click below to read more about each of the candidates:
Nice work MetuchenMatters.com team. I saw you in the crowd but missed the article. It looks good. Thanks for your work covering the election. You've done a great job!