Yesterday in a stunning shift, the New Jersey Supreme Court ruled that a new formula for school funding, which on a yearly basis has been challenged by mostly suburban communities, as well as the Republican party, felt the State should not be fund school districts such as Plainfield.
I am happy that the court has supported this decision. This ruling makes it very clear that the funding the Plainfield School District receives will not be eliminated for political reasons. Students who need this kind of funding do not deserve the way politicians are trying to use this issue as a political football. Therefore, the $100 million in aid the Plainfield School District receives will not be compromised. There are additional funds the City qualifies for, but the City needs to show their needs for these funds.
With that stimulus money coming in from Washington, Plainfield is on a solid foundation with the ability to educate our children, without the worrying of political climate changes that may occur one way or the other.
I have been criticized by some Plainfield School Board members, like Christian Estevez, as well as Cory Storch, and Adrian Mapp, persons who do not have a clue about the funding formula, and would rather see the City’s School District loose $100 million a year, rather than support me on this issue.
Just recently, while working with the State, there was a commitment to give the City of Plainfield $65 million in school construction money. However, because the Plainfield School Board’s leadership was more concerned with giving Mr. Estevez’s wife a $40,000 raise in one year, I was able to ascertain $17million, but could have received $65 million if the Board was more concerned about the welfare of our students, rather than their personal agendas.
Last night’s meeting with the water company was very impressive; the knowledge of the different entities that have a relationship with the PMUA was deep. They were able to provide some alternatives that this City qualifies. I am hoping to use these types of meetings to educate the community in the future, community meetings addressing the direct needs of the public.
I was criticized by a handful of ‘haters’ yet again, who are simply are clueless regarding this issue. They are quite comedic, such as an energetic headless chicken. One, there are options available to the taxpayers: one option offers a new meter, and the other offers a 1-time service charge of $2,800, which is a lot of money, which is why I am supporting special legislation in Trenton that may be able to free this set amount of money for taxpayers who prefer this service.
The budget crisis in the State is the reason why this issue has yet to move forward. This issue is very important however because it not only saves money for the taxpayers, but it also conserves water, a feat we need to accomplish due to recent water shortages.
Another option is that the water bill can be based upon the winter-metered reading of water consumption, rather than a year-round reading. This option certainly is a savings.
So working with the Mayor and Council President, I plan to hold these sorts of forums in the future to educate the community so that we do not have to depend on different agencies that get out of control and feel they need not answer to anyone. I am prepared to continue to take the issues and concerns of the public, and share them with the entire community.
Ps
I reached out to the Mayor’s Office, as well as the Council President, and the Friends of Sleepy Hollow to participate in this event. The complaints from the ‘haters-as-usual’ about no one being notifying is incorrect. The crowd who showed up knew about it somehow.
Unfortunately, Bernice printed that I made a mistake in citing the acronym for the PMUA. This is the same woman who repeatedly makes grammatical errors and spelling mistakes, but I was told you never win beating up on a senior, a practice I will not begin. I do not see how Mr. Mapp and Mr. Storch can sleep at night while they use seniors, such as Bernice and the other woman who wrote the opinion piece in the Courier inferring I am some sort of a ‘gangster’, to do their dirty work, and are not men enough to say these things themselves.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Congratulations Ms. Sonia Sotomayor / Closet Cleaning
I was hoping our blogging community would be congratulating our President Obama as he selected America’s first Hispanic U.S. Supreme Court Justice. Since no one has, let me be the first in the Plainfield blogging community to congratulate Ms. Sonia Sotomayor in being the 1st Hispanic nominated to the United States Supreme Court.
I was hoping that the balance of this campaign would consist of a solutions-based arena to the problems the City is facing, moving us forward. How quick some people forget that all of the problems we are facing in this nation, State, and City are because of the failed leadership of the former President of the United States, George W. Bush.
I am going to keep my comments very brief dealing with some of the blogs and editorial opinions regarding my personal career, because I feel these people are dancing on very thin ice. Thank God I have enough money to keep them in court if they want to continue down this road. I will not be drawn into a situation where I leave myself open for a lawsuit.
To those who want to paint the picture of me being a criminal: you had eight years under the zealous watch of former US Attorney Chris Christie to make a case. It is obvious that I have not done anything wrong, criminally or ethically because of the lack of evidence. I know this because some have gone to the authorities with hearsay and accusations, and investigations were conducted on my ethics as well as my political behavior. Every one of those investigations concluded that there was neither value nor weight in any of the accusations.
Again, I would like to feel I have answered every question agents of the law asked of me, and I will not answer or respond to any of this nonsense circulating on the blogs, as well as the baseless editorial opinion. Maybe, law enforcement agents need to look into some of the questions I have been presenting.
The first question was what did Dan Damon do to be paid $65,000 a year for the City of Plainfield. The next was what did Chris Estevez’s wife do to get a $40,000 raise in one year. Third, how many real estate deals did Cory Storch and family benefit from by putting buyers in bad mortgage situations? How can they sleep at night? Was it true that Dan Damon’s partner was a commissioner at one time over at the PMUA, and did nothing to stand up for the taxpayers?
As Roselle Borough’s CFO, Adrian Mapp makes $30,000 a year more than a neighboring town’s CFO whose municipality is twice the size of Roselle. Currently the Mayor of Roselle’s only job is being part-time Mayor, generating $12,000 a year. Take it to the bank, he would become Plainfield’s new Business Administrator if Mapp were elected, a job he wanted implemented in Roselle’s government, but was ardently defeated by Roselle’s taxpayers.
I think I picked the wrong profession. A long time ago coming up the roadway of success, I began to realize some of the jealousy and envy of some close to me. I was told by a friend of mine to get used to that, because jealousy and envy is a sickness of those whose path you cross who want what you have worked for, but do not want to put in the time and effort. With that, I should have become a doctor, for I would be rich with dealing with individuals and that sort of sickness!
Ps
Does Dan Damon have to depend on the welfare system because the free $65,000 a year received from the Plainfield taxpayers, free money, was taken away upon the new administration taking office? Is this what all of the hoop-la is about Dan?
I was hoping that the balance of this campaign would consist of a solutions-based arena to the problems the City is facing, moving us forward. How quick some people forget that all of the problems we are facing in this nation, State, and City are because of the failed leadership of the former President of the United States, George W. Bush.
I am going to keep my comments very brief dealing with some of the blogs and editorial opinions regarding my personal career, because I feel these people are dancing on very thin ice. Thank God I have enough money to keep them in court if they want to continue down this road. I will not be drawn into a situation where I leave myself open for a lawsuit.
To those who want to paint the picture of me being a criminal: you had eight years under the zealous watch of former US Attorney Chris Christie to make a case. It is obvious that I have not done anything wrong, criminally or ethically because of the lack of evidence. I know this because some have gone to the authorities with hearsay and accusations, and investigations were conducted on my ethics as well as my political behavior. Every one of those investigations concluded that there was neither value nor weight in any of the accusations.
Again, I would like to feel I have answered every question agents of the law asked of me, and I will not answer or respond to any of this nonsense circulating on the blogs, as well as the baseless editorial opinion. Maybe, law enforcement agents need to look into some of the questions I have been presenting.
The first question was what did Dan Damon do to be paid $65,000 a year for the City of Plainfield. The next was what did Chris Estevez’s wife do to get a $40,000 raise in one year. Third, how many real estate deals did Cory Storch and family benefit from by putting buyers in bad mortgage situations? How can they sleep at night? Was it true that Dan Damon’s partner was a commissioner at one time over at the PMUA, and did nothing to stand up for the taxpayers?
As Roselle Borough’s CFO, Adrian Mapp makes $30,000 a year more than a neighboring town’s CFO whose municipality is twice the size of Roselle. Currently the Mayor of Roselle’s only job is being part-time Mayor, generating $12,000 a year. Take it to the bank, he would become Plainfield’s new Business Administrator if Mapp were elected, a job he wanted implemented in Roselle’s government, but was ardently defeated by Roselle’s taxpayers.
I think I picked the wrong profession. A long time ago coming up the roadway of success, I began to realize some of the jealousy and envy of some close to me. I was told by a friend of mine to get used to that, because jealousy and envy is a sickness of those whose path you cross who want what you have worked for, but do not want to put in the time and effort. With that, I should have become a doctor, for I would be rich with dealing with individuals and that sort of sickness!
Ps
Does Dan Damon have to depend on the welfare system because the free $65,000 a year received from the Plainfield taxpayers, free money, was taken away upon the new administration taking office? Is this what all of the hoop-la is about Dan?
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
8 Days Until the Primary / Questions Still Unanswered / Ps
I hope everyone had a pleasant Memorial Day weekend. This election is one that I can look back on and smile in terms of moving forward in the right direction, not only on the State level in my District, but also locally.
I believe my record speaks for itself; I have and will continue to work diligently on the key issues within my Legislative District. Let us look at education in Plainfield for example. Our schools are now some of the best equipped to educate our children. We receive over $100 million in grant money on a yearly basis. When no one was able to streamline this funding into Plainfield, I was there to do so. Our youth are now getting an opportunity to get an education in nursing, and I was there when Plainfield’s nursing school needed support. I am not only going to continue to lobby for Plainfield to regain control of the Muhlenberg campus, but also for it to someday reopen as a full-service hospital.
When others turned their back on developing an office building in the downtown area of Plainfield, I was there to ensure it happened. When residents complained about our train stations, again, I was there when needed.
Last year, when I made an investment in the Obama campaign, time and money wise, it paid huge dividends not only for the State and my District, but also for the City of Plainfield. It gave me an opportunity to reconnect with the citizens here in Plainfield. I have built a base of support in Central New Jersey from that campaign. In the past, we have had to pay people to work local and state campaigns. This year however, we have people knocking on doors and making phone calls pro bono because they believe in what I am doing.
Unfortunately, when I ask questions, the Cory Storch Team labels them as attacks on individuals. These sorts of labeling games are an old Republican strategy that I hoped would die when Bush left the White House. Asking about a School Board member’s wife receiving a $40,000 raise in one year, which sends up a red flag to Republicans suggesting that the State should stop funding Abbott Districts i.e. wasteful spending, is a legitimate question.
My question to Cory Storch, is it worth the City losing $100 million a year because you want to cover up this type of wasteful spending? I still ask the question of what did Dan Damon do to be paid $65,000 a year from the City as an employee. Why, as a council member Mr. Storch, do you sit back and allow the State to take back $500,000 from the City under your watch? It is sad when I spend a lot of time walking through the 2nd ward, and your constituents complain about your only showing up around election time, while doing nothing for those in the 2nd ward.
I cannot believe you have the nerve to mention that my efforts are solely for Jerry Green, when your main reason for being on the Council is to benefit your family’s real estate business. So again, I have no problem debating you anywhere in the City of Plainfield, putting your record up against mine, especially in the 1st, 3rd, and 4th wards, where residents do not even know who you are.
Ps
Next Tuesday, June 2nd, there will be 3 candidates running in the 22nd District for 2 Assembly seats. I am asking my supporters to support not only myself, but also my running mate Linda Stender. As a candidate, I do not take any election for granted. This is why I have been campaigning from one side of my District to the other. I have been getting a lot of positive feedback.
As Speaker Pro Tempore of the New Jersey General Assembly, the progress I have made as Chairman of Housing and Local Government, as well as my leadership role in the State, has been recognized. Therefore, I am confident that Linda and I will be victorious on June 2nd.
The other candidate, Rick Smiley, I consider a fine person; however, Linda and I have worked hard for the 22nd Legislative District, and deserve to be reelected. Therefore, when asked outside of Plainfield, “Isn’t it nice to have another person from Plainfield on the ballot with you,” my response is that Linda has done a good job in representing the 22nd District and deserves to be reelected.
In the past, the New Democrats have been in support of Linda, and I hope that they will continue to support her. The handful of ‘haters’ who have been blowing baseless smoke will not make a difference in this election. Plainfield and the 22nd District are too smart for them and their games.
I believe my record speaks for itself; I have and will continue to work diligently on the key issues within my Legislative District. Let us look at education in Plainfield for example. Our schools are now some of the best equipped to educate our children. We receive over $100 million in grant money on a yearly basis. When no one was able to streamline this funding into Plainfield, I was there to do so. Our youth are now getting an opportunity to get an education in nursing, and I was there when Plainfield’s nursing school needed support. I am not only going to continue to lobby for Plainfield to regain control of the Muhlenberg campus, but also for it to someday reopen as a full-service hospital.
When others turned their back on developing an office building in the downtown area of Plainfield, I was there to ensure it happened. When residents complained about our train stations, again, I was there when needed.
Last year, when I made an investment in the Obama campaign, time and money wise, it paid huge dividends not only for the State and my District, but also for the City of Plainfield. It gave me an opportunity to reconnect with the citizens here in Plainfield. I have built a base of support in Central New Jersey from that campaign. In the past, we have had to pay people to work local and state campaigns. This year however, we have people knocking on doors and making phone calls pro bono because they believe in what I am doing.
Unfortunately, when I ask questions, the Cory Storch Team labels them as attacks on individuals. These sorts of labeling games are an old Republican strategy that I hoped would die when Bush left the White House. Asking about a School Board member’s wife receiving a $40,000 raise in one year, which sends up a red flag to Republicans suggesting that the State should stop funding Abbott Districts i.e. wasteful spending, is a legitimate question.
My question to Cory Storch, is it worth the City losing $100 million a year because you want to cover up this type of wasteful spending? I still ask the question of what did Dan Damon do to be paid $65,000 a year from the City as an employee. Why, as a council member Mr. Storch, do you sit back and allow the State to take back $500,000 from the City under your watch? It is sad when I spend a lot of time walking through the 2nd ward, and your constituents complain about your only showing up around election time, while doing nothing for those in the 2nd ward.
I cannot believe you have the nerve to mention that my efforts are solely for Jerry Green, when your main reason for being on the Council is to benefit your family’s real estate business. So again, I have no problem debating you anywhere in the City of Plainfield, putting your record up against mine, especially in the 1st, 3rd, and 4th wards, where residents do not even know who you are.
Ps
Next Tuesday, June 2nd, there will be 3 candidates running in the 22nd District for 2 Assembly seats. I am asking my supporters to support not only myself, but also my running mate Linda Stender. As a candidate, I do not take any election for granted. This is why I have been campaigning from one side of my District to the other. I have been getting a lot of positive feedback.
As Speaker Pro Tempore of the New Jersey General Assembly, the progress I have made as Chairman of Housing and Local Government, as well as my leadership role in the State, has been recognized. Therefore, I am confident that Linda and I will be victorious on June 2nd.
The other candidate, Rick Smiley, I consider a fine person; however, Linda and I have worked hard for the 22nd Legislative District, and deserve to be reelected. Therefore, when asked outside of Plainfield, “Isn’t it nice to have another person from Plainfield on the ballot with you,” my response is that Linda has done a good job in representing the 22nd District and deserves to be reelected.
In the past, the New Democrats have been in support of Linda, and I hope that they will continue to support her. The handful of ‘haters’ who have been blowing baseless smoke will not make a difference in this election. Plainfield and the 22nd District are too smart for them and their games.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Clarity for the Blogging Community
I would like to clear the air with truth and clarity regarding information shared pertaining to my sons’ salaries; one being an undersheriff for Union County, and the other employed by the City of Plainfield as a firefighter.
First off, they were referred to as ‘Jerry’s kids’, while they are both 40+ years in age, and have been working in their respective careers for over 20 years, and I am very proud of them both. Jerry Jr. has been a sheriff’s officer for over 20 years. He took the civil service exam, passed, and went through the academy, which qualified him as a sheriff’s officer. This was not a political appointment, and I am proud of the job he has done as a sheriff’s officer. It is warming as I go around the State and am approached by other officer’s and am swamped with compliments regarding his job performance. His salary is no different from other sheriff officers, for it took him 20 years to achieve the salary grade of $102,000, which he currently holds and has earned.
My son Sheldon is a firefighter, and went through the systematic selection of becoming a civil servant. It took him 20 years to get to the salary grade of $76,000, again one he has dutifully earned and achieved. His job as Plainfield Emergency Management Coordinator is a title, a title that brings him no monetary benefit. In other municipalities, individuals with this position bring in salaries topping over $100,000. I have gone on record expressing my disagreement for his holding of the position, because if anything ever happened in the City, he would be the first one blamed. Nevertheless, because this is his passion, I respect him for his decisions.
Now, the questions I have been asking for the past few months have yet to be answered, while in my responses to misinformation, I am labeled as attacking and ‘losing it.’ The respect I have gained in this State, with the Vice President sharing with me his appreciation with the wonderful job I am doing on behalf of New Jersey as Chairman of Local Government and Housing, the few off-the-cuff remarks from ‘haters’ are futile and will not be an avenue in which I will feed into.
Eventually, that hate in their hearts will cause them to cross the line. When this happens, their will be legal ramifications to their actions. I myself will not engage in gutter politics, but will continue to shed light and truth with the public.
When questions are asked of me, I answer them. I shake my head when bloggers like Cory Storch duck questions that demand truth and accountability, a shameful practice for an elected official. Mr. Storch should be held accountable to the public just as I am when questions are asked, for we are both elected officials.
Therefore, as my 2nd ward council representative, I have a few questions for Mr. Storch, and hopefully he will be man enough to give me a truthful answer before his term expires. First, what did Dan Damon do for the City of Plainfield while you were a council member, where he earned $65,000/yr, which is over a half million dollars for his tenure, drawing this salary from the Economic Development Department? Two, Christian Estevez’s wife started as a teacher earning $41,000. However once Mr. Estevez was elected to the School Board, she received a $40,000 raise in one year, and is now generating a salary well over $100,000. I would like to know if this is regular practice for every school employee.
Sharing this sort of public knowledge is not an attack on Chris Estevez, but is a demand that, as a taxpaying citizen, should be answered, being sure to defeat any type of inside trading.
First off, they were referred to as ‘Jerry’s kids’, while they are both 40+ years in age, and have been working in their respective careers for over 20 years, and I am very proud of them both. Jerry Jr. has been a sheriff’s officer for over 20 years. He took the civil service exam, passed, and went through the academy, which qualified him as a sheriff’s officer. This was not a political appointment, and I am proud of the job he has done as a sheriff’s officer. It is warming as I go around the State and am approached by other officer’s and am swamped with compliments regarding his job performance. His salary is no different from other sheriff officers, for it took him 20 years to achieve the salary grade of $102,000, which he currently holds and has earned.
My son Sheldon is a firefighter, and went through the systematic selection of becoming a civil servant. It took him 20 years to get to the salary grade of $76,000, again one he has dutifully earned and achieved. His job as Plainfield Emergency Management Coordinator is a title, a title that brings him no monetary benefit. In other municipalities, individuals with this position bring in salaries topping over $100,000. I have gone on record expressing my disagreement for his holding of the position, because if anything ever happened in the City, he would be the first one blamed. Nevertheless, because this is his passion, I respect him for his decisions.
Now, the questions I have been asking for the past few months have yet to be answered, while in my responses to misinformation, I am labeled as attacking and ‘losing it.’ The respect I have gained in this State, with the Vice President sharing with me his appreciation with the wonderful job I am doing on behalf of New Jersey as Chairman of Local Government and Housing, the few off-the-cuff remarks from ‘haters’ are futile and will not be an avenue in which I will feed into.
Eventually, that hate in their hearts will cause them to cross the line. When this happens, their will be legal ramifications to their actions. I myself will not engage in gutter politics, but will continue to shed light and truth with the public.
When questions are asked of me, I answer them. I shake my head when bloggers like Cory Storch duck questions that demand truth and accountability, a shameful practice for an elected official. Mr. Storch should be held accountable to the public just as I am when questions are asked, for we are both elected officials.
Therefore, as my 2nd ward council representative, I have a few questions for Mr. Storch, and hopefully he will be man enough to give me a truthful answer before his term expires. First, what did Dan Damon do for the City of Plainfield while you were a council member, where he earned $65,000/yr, which is over a half million dollars for his tenure, drawing this salary from the Economic Development Department? Two, Christian Estevez’s wife started as a teacher earning $41,000. However once Mr. Estevez was elected to the School Board, she received a $40,000 raise in one year, and is now generating a salary well over $100,000. I would like to know if this is regular practice for every school employee.
Sharing this sort of public knowledge is not an attack on Chris Estevez, but is a demand that, as a taxpaying citizen, should be answered, being sure to defeat any type of inside trading.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
13 Days Until the June Primary
I am hoping my comments today do not make people feel I take things for granted, because in politics, that is not a luxury. I have spent the last two months knocking on doors from one end of my district to the other, because I am concerned about the economic crisis we are facing in the State of New Jersey. This has been a practice of mine executed throughout my entire political career, not just during election season. This is a continual practice of mine for the simple fact that when I make decisions on housing, budget, healthcare, and quality of life issues, I am making my decisions on those thoughts and feelings of the constituents of my district.
I have spent the last 2 weeks in Plainfield, knocking on doors, discussing local and state issues, and periodically, I would run into some New Democrats also knocking on doors, especially in the 2nd ward. I must say that the communication exchanged between them and I was one that made me feel proud to be a Democrat. It was friendly, cordial, and respectful. They were out promoting their slate, while I was out doing the same for mine. It was amazing to experience, first-hand, this new degree of respect between the two slates here in the City of Plainfield. I hope this same maturity and energy encourages the behavior of removing lawn signs to come to an immediate end. I am hoping we can respect one another’s rights for the balance of the campaign.
Personally, I have no interest in being involved with any negative campaigns. It is reassuring to see and hear as I ride around my district, 9 out of 10 people recognizing what I have accomplished, leaving me no reason to be negative. One person said to me, “I am proud of what you have done and are doing for the Borough of Middlesex and our district, and I hope you continue to be successful. You won’t be able to make everyone happy; there will always be a few haters.”
It made me proud to hear that. When I was in the 1st ward of Plainfield, residents thanked me for helping them get the new Emerson School built. In the 3rd ward of Plainfield, residents were happy with my involvement in the building of the new nursing school, where every year 500 nurses graduate. When I am in the downtown area of Plainfield, and people are walking out of the new office building, it is surprising to know how many people realized my involvement with that establishment. When I am on Union County College’s Plainfield campus, I am proud that I am involved with the level of success that it is enjoying today. When I am greeting people getting off the train, it is warming to hear commuters thank me for my efforts in getting funds to upgrade both the Netherwood and Downtown stations.
Every morning, as people are taking their children to preschool, their acknowledgment of my efforts 10 years age in getting Plainfield restored as an Abbott District, has made it possible for millions in State aid to flow into our City. The benefits of this funding are beginning to show with the rise in test scores. The latest project I have been involved in, the opening of the new Senior Center facility, will be dedicated today with a ribbon cutting.
Come June 3rd, my goal is to unite the City just as I did for the Obama campaign, because the President will need a Democratic Governor, as well as a Democratic Senate and Assembly. So far, we have a Democrat-controlled Washington and Trenton, which has shown huge benefits not only for the State, but also for my District.
With that, I will be turning my attention to the Republican Party, as well as their candidate who is running for Mayor in Plainfield, Jim Pivnichny. Although I may have differences with some of the Democratic candidates running this year, no one is so far from dealing with reality than him. Here is a man who is a true Bush Republican that now wants to claim he is an Independent Republican. Now you are either a Democrat or a Republican when it comes to real politics.
The balance of my campaign then will be focused on the Republican candidates on the State and local levels. Recently, the Republicans had a meeting in Trenton and their first initiative was to eliminate Abbott District funding for cities like Plainfield, which would cost the City over $100 million dollars a year.
With having no virtual chance at winning in the General Election, Mr. Pivnichny’s job as the Republican candidate is to divide the Democratic Party. My job as Democratic Chairman of Plainfield is to unite the Democratic Party on behalf of the residents of Plainfield. Therefore, I am not waiting until June 2nd to let the public know that no matter what happens in this primary, I can work with any of the candidates that the public elects as Mayor of Plainfield. That being said, I will not stand by and allow Jim Pivnichny to put out false information, because if I were a Democrat running in Watchung, I would not be able to do that. Wake up Plainfield, that same principle should be applied here Plainfield; for we showed the County and the State that we are good-standing Democrats, with President Obama receiving 93% of our votes, 15,000 in Plainfield with his opponent receiving 1,000 votes. When I see those sorts of numbers, I am going to make sure those numbers do not change, because people on the national and state levels recognize those numbers.
I have spent the last 2 weeks in Plainfield, knocking on doors, discussing local and state issues, and periodically, I would run into some New Democrats also knocking on doors, especially in the 2nd ward. I must say that the communication exchanged between them and I was one that made me feel proud to be a Democrat. It was friendly, cordial, and respectful. They were out promoting their slate, while I was out doing the same for mine. It was amazing to experience, first-hand, this new degree of respect between the two slates here in the City of Plainfield. I hope this same maturity and energy encourages the behavior of removing lawn signs to come to an immediate end. I am hoping we can respect one another’s rights for the balance of the campaign.
Personally, I have no interest in being involved with any negative campaigns. It is reassuring to see and hear as I ride around my district, 9 out of 10 people recognizing what I have accomplished, leaving me no reason to be negative. One person said to me, “I am proud of what you have done and are doing for the Borough of Middlesex and our district, and I hope you continue to be successful. You won’t be able to make everyone happy; there will always be a few haters.”
It made me proud to hear that. When I was in the 1st ward of Plainfield, residents thanked me for helping them get the new Emerson School built. In the 3rd ward of Plainfield, residents were happy with my involvement in the building of the new nursing school, where every year 500 nurses graduate. When I am in the downtown area of Plainfield, and people are walking out of the new office building, it is surprising to know how many people realized my involvement with that establishment. When I am on Union County College’s Plainfield campus, I am proud that I am involved with the level of success that it is enjoying today. When I am greeting people getting off the train, it is warming to hear commuters thank me for my efforts in getting funds to upgrade both the Netherwood and Downtown stations.
Every morning, as people are taking their children to preschool, their acknowledgment of my efforts 10 years age in getting Plainfield restored as an Abbott District, has made it possible for millions in State aid to flow into our City. The benefits of this funding are beginning to show with the rise in test scores. The latest project I have been involved in, the opening of the new Senior Center facility, will be dedicated today with a ribbon cutting.
Come June 3rd, my goal is to unite the City just as I did for the Obama campaign, because the President will need a Democratic Governor, as well as a Democratic Senate and Assembly. So far, we have a Democrat-controlled Washington and Trenton, which has shown huge benefits not only for the State, but also for my District.
With that, I will be turning my attention to the Republican Party, as well as their candidate who is running for Mayor in Plainfield, Jim Pivnichny. Although I may have differences with some of the Democratic candidates running this year, no one is so far from dealing with reality than him. Here is a man who is a true Bush Republican that now wants to claim he is an Independent Republican. Now you are either a Democrat or a Republican when it comes to real politics.
The balance of my campaign then will be focused on the Republican candidates on the State and local levels. Recently, the Republicans had a meeting in Trenton and their first initiative was to eliminate Abbott District funding for cities like Plainfield, which would cost the City over $100 million dollars a year.
With having no virtual chance at winning in the General Election, Mr. Pivnichny’s job as the Republican candidate is to divide the Democratic Party. My job as Democratic Chairman of Plainfield is to unite the Democratic Party on behalf of the residents of Plainfield. Therefore, I am not waiting until June 2nd to let the public know that no matter what happens in this primary, I can work with any of the candidates that the public elects as Mayor of Plainfield. That being said, I will not stand by and allow Jim Pivnichny to put out false information, because if I were a Democrat running in Watchung, I would not be able to do that. Wake up Plainfield, that same principle should be applied here Plainfield; for we showed the County and the State that we are good-standing Democrats, with President Obama receiving 93% of our votes, 15,000 in Plainfield with his opponent receiving 1,000 votes. When I see those sorts of numbers, I am going to make sure those numbers do not change, because people on the national and state levels recognize those numbers.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Solution-based Talk Within the 22nd District
I had an opportunity to meet with the New Jersey American Water Company last week. The meeting went very well. They presented helpful ideas for the Plainfield community. I will be reaching out to Mayor Sharon Robinson-Briggs and Council President Rashid Burney, hoping that we can within the next two weeks, meet with the community to share some solutions to problems mentioned regarding the PMUA at the Friends of Sleepy Hollow meeting.
Once we pin down a date and time, I will be happy to ask the public to participate in this meeting. The water company will play a huge role in our solution-based initiative in terms of the water services we use here in the City of Plainfield. Out of the 11 towns in my district, New Jersey American Water Company services 10 of those municipalities.
I would like to move ahead with this sort of feedback for the community, rather than, on a daily basis, deflate misinformation blasted on local blogs regarding our local and State government. Let it read clearly that the 22nd Legislative District is already benefitting from President Obama’s stimulus plan. Evidence of our benefits from the stimulus plan is seen in throughout our health communities, City governments, housing communities, and law enforcement agencies.
So I am hoping as we move forward that we can begin to work together as a community. We have 14 more days until the primary, and I am hoping we can spend those 14 days talking about the issues. I do not intend to respond to any more questions unless those questions seek to improve this City and District.
Once we pin down a date and time, I will be happy to ask the public to participate in this meeting. The water company will play a huge role in our solution-based initiative in terms of the water services we use here in the City of Plainfield. Out of the 11 towns in my district, New Jersey American Water Company services 10 of those municipalities.
I would like to move ahead with this sort of feedback for the community, rather than, on a daily basis, deflate misinformation blasted on local blogs regarding our local and State government. Let it read clearly that the 22nd Legislative District is already benefitting from President Obama’s stimulus plan. Evidence of our benefits from the stimulus plan is seen in throughout our health communities, City governments, housing communities, and law enforcement agencies.
So I am hoping as we move forward that we can begin to work together as a community. We have 14 more days until the primary, and I am hoping we can spend those 14 days talking about the issues. I do not intend to respond to any more questions unless those questions seek to improve this City and District.
Friday, May 15, 2009
May 15, 2009
Reading Adrian Mapp’s blog today, I am surprised that he does not understand that people in the City, County, State, and Country, recognize that there are side affects to the economic detriment this nation is enduring. Property crimes are such a side affect. These sorts of crimes are those that are very difficult to prevent, but with the offensive the Mayor has launched in instituting crime prevention programs, this effort is an avenue toward progress and regulation.
Public Safety Director Martin Hellwig, Council President Rashid Burney and I met with the Police department and the 2nd ward community to discuss these sorts of crimes. The public acknowledges that there is a heavier police presence in the City, a feeling that was not enjoyed by the City under the past administration. This presence has done an excellent job in reducing violent, brutal crimes by 300%, and is focusing that same effective effort in routing property crime and defeating it, just as the current administration has done with violent crimes in the City of Plainfield.
Now my question to Mr. Mapp: Under the past administration, which he was part of, did we or did we not have 15 murders within the City of Plainfield in one year? Secondly, I met with the State, county, and city law enforcement agencies to establish working relationships to deal with this crisis in our City. Not once as a Freeholder, did Mr. Mapp attend these meetings, nor participate as an elected official to promote these relationships.
What he did then is exactly what he is doing today, showing up once a week for his paycheck. This is why when he sought reelection for Freeholder, he lost by 25,000 votes. While some in Plainfield are deceived by his lies, the other 20 municipalities recognize he did nothing for the taxpayers of Union County. All Mr. Mapp can show the people here in the City of Plainfield is one project that he was a part of, which was a low-income project in downtown Plainfield that should have never happened.
As a point of personal preference, let us compare efforts of Mayor Sharon and Mr. Mapp. Mayor Sharon is currently supporting a Senior Facility that will house our Senior Citizens’ Center, as well as 65 condominiums that will bring in people seeking to invest in the City of Plainfield. Mr. Mapp’s record shows his endorsement of the Teppers site, a low-income project. Comparing Mayor Sharon’s record with Mr. Mapp’s enables one to clearly see that the Mayor is focused on moving the City is a productive vein of governance, while Mr. Mapp is focused on continual business-as-usual practices.
Also, under council members Storch and Mapp, we had a halfway house operating in the downtown area without the knowledge of the public, and I am working with the State to make sure these types of facilities are not just housed in cities like Plainfield. As realtors, the Mapp and Storch families have closed their eyes to such facilities being brought into the City.
Just yesterday, I was out knocking on doors and I was alerted by a mother who felt very uncomfortable living with her children, next to a facility that houses 20 men. Councilman Storch would not know of this issue because he does not knock on doors but once every four years. I have yet to hear Mr. Storch publically say ‘Plainfield has had enough,’ when it comes to this sort of issue. I wonder if he is more concerned with prolonging his job, or with the safety of Plainfield.
Ps
Dan, time is running out, so let us cut through the nonsense: What did you get paid $65,000 a year for under the past administration? My math tells me, since you have a hard time configuring such knowledge, that you received over half a million dollars (over the 8 years term) from the City, a City that still is unaware of your contributions to it.
By the way, Dan, I failed to bring to the public’s attention the $20,000 your partner received as a member of the PMUA, and allowed this agency to get out of control.
I have nothing against any Hispanic community, especially the New Jersey Hispanic community that actively supports me statewide. In fact, the former Speaker of the NJ General Assembly, Albio Sires, gave me my opportunity to become part of Leadership in the State Assembly, opening the door to Deputy Speaker of the Assembly. Our relationship is one that as this stimulus money comes in from Washington; I work with him and the Congressman of our district, Frank Pallone, to establish contacts in Washington that our Legislative District, including Plainfield, can benefit from daily.
Lastly, Chris, does your wife receive $100,000 as an employee of the school district? Did she receive a rather large raise in one year? Has she even worked in the School District for 5 years? If this matter does not scream politics, this inside horse-trading is harming the learning environment of the City’s children.
Public Safety Director Martin Hellwig, Council President Rashid Burney and I met with the Police department and the 2nd ward community to discuss these sorts of crimes. The public acknowledges that there is a heavier police presence in the City, a feeling that was not enjoyed by the City under the past administration. This presence has done an excellent job in reducing violent, brutal crimes by 300%, and is focusing that same effective effort in routing property crime and defeating it, just as the current administration has done with violent crimes in the City of Plainfield.
Now my question to Mr. Mapp: Under the past administration, which he was part of, did we or did we not have 15 murders within the City of Plainfield in one year? Secondly, I met with the State, county, and city law enforcement agencies to establish working relationships to deal with this crisis in our City. Not once as a Freeholder, did Mr. Mapp attend these meetings, nor participate as an elected official to promote these relationships.
What he did then is exactly what he is doing today, showing up once a week for his paycheck. This is why when he sought reelection for Freeholder, he lost by 25,000 votes. While some in Plainfield are deceived by his lies, the other 20 municipalities recognize he did nothing for the taxpayers of Union County. All Mr. Mapp can show the people here in the City of Plainfield is one project that he was a part of, which was a low-income project in downtown Plainfield that should have never happened.
As a point of personal preference, let us compare efforts of Mayor Sharon and Mr. Mapp. Mayor Sharon is currently supporting a Senior Facility that will house our Senior Citizens’ Center, as well as 65 condominiums that will bring in people seeking to invest in the City of Plainfield. Mr. Mapp’s record shows his endorsement of the Teppers site, a low-income project. Comparing Mayor Sharon’s record with Mr. Mapp’s enables one to clearly see that the Mayor is focused on moving the City is a productive vein of governance, while Mr. Mapp is focused on continual business-as-usual practices.
Also, under council members Storch and Mapp, we had a halfway house operating in the downtown area without the knowledge of the public, and I am working with the State to make sure these types of facilities are not just housed in cities like Plainfield. As realtors, the Mapp and Storch families have closed their eyes to such facilities being brought into the City.
Just yesterday, I was out knocking on doors and I was alerted by a mother who felt very uncomfortable living with her children, next to a facility that houses 20 men. Councilman Storch would not know of this issue because he does not knock on doors but once every four years. I have yet to hear Mr. Storch publically say ‘Plainfield has had enough,’ when it comes to this sort of issue. I wonder if he is more concerned with prolonging his job, or with the safety of Plainfield.
Ps
Dan, time is running out, so let us cut through the nonsense: What did you get paid $65,000 a year for under the past administration? My math tells me, since you have a hard time configuring such knowledge, that you received over half a million dollars (over the 8 years term) from the City, a City that still is unaware of your contributions to it.
By the way, Dan, I failed to bring to the public’s attention the $20,000 your partner received as a member of the PMUA, and allowed this agency to get out of control.
I have nothing against any Hispanic community, especially the New Jersey Hispanic community that actively supports me statewide. In fact, the former Speaker of the NJ General Assembly, Albio Sires, gave me my opportunity to become part of Leadership in the State Assembly, opening the door to Deputy Speaker of the Assembly. Our relationship is one that as this stimulus money comes in from Washington; I work with him and the Congressman of our district, Frank Pallone, to establish contacts in Washington that our Legislative District, including Plainfield, can benefit from daily.
Lastly, Chris, does your wife receive $100,000 as an employee of the school district? Did she receive a rather large raise in one year? Has she even worked in the School District for 5 years? If this matter does not scream politics, this inside horse-trading is harming the learning environment of the City’s children.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Sound Business Practice vs. Thievery
Reading today’s blog, it is unfortunate that someone would want to take my personal dealings and accomplishments, and suggest wrongdoing. Before I got involved in politics, I made investments that would benefit me when I got older. I was 21 years old when I bought my first 2-family investment. By the time I was 30 years old, I either owned or was in control of over 20 properties; profits of making wise investments.
Over the years, I have made smart business decisions that would benefit my family and myself. I work as a full-time State Legislator, making roughly $49,000 a year. I generate just about that amount in real estate taxes here in Union County.
I owned or was in control of the two buildings in Linden that Dan Damon cites, for over 40 years. One was a 5-unit mix-use building, and the other was a 4-unit mix-use building. Together, they both generated an appraisal of one million dollars. The City of Linden and the Union County Improvement Authority offered me $745,000 for both buildings. I accepted the offer because as an elected official, especially in today's fiscal climate, I did not want even a legitimate business transaction to unnerve the public. On a yearly basis, I report the necessary property information to the appropriate entities. In fact, I lost nearly $200,000 on this deal.
I made this investment years before I had any political interest. I began to sell my properties these past few years because I saw the real estate market beginning to plummet. Thus, I find it very, very embarrassing to be accused of thievery, after I have been an honorable and sincere businessman for over 40 years. What makes it so bad is that I am being accused by the likes of Dan Damon, a person who has nothing to show for neither himself nor his community.
The City of Linden is buying up all of the properties in the area in which Dan Damon is talking about, in means of redeveloping the area. If I was making over $100,000 in rentals on a yearly basis, why would I want to sell an investment giving me this much return? Do the math Dan.
My whole life, I have played by the rules, and I have been very blessed in my responsible and successful business practices. Yet now, I am being accused by a person who has done nothing with his life, or for his community. In fact, I do not think he is happy with himself because he does not even know who he is…
Eventually, Dan is going to cross the line, and when he does, I just might end up getting his property for nothing, i.e. the courts.
Ps
Regarding the issue with the Plainfield Police officer, it is my understanding that the matter is under investigation. That being said, the officer will either be charged or cleared. No one is trying to sweep the matter under the rug. Nevertheless, if the evidence shows that the officer broke the law, then like anyone else, the consequences need to be applied to the officer. There are no double standards here.
Now that I have answered Mr. Damon’s questions, he can now answer two of mine: What did you do for 8 years for $65,000 dollars per year? Other than print misinformation, help the City loose $500,000 in grant money, help lose all communication with the governing bodies outside of the City because no one wanted to deal with your false information flooding (blaming everyone except the appropriate parties who just happened to be in your inner circle).
Secondly Dan, Adrian Mapp, and Christian Estevez: Was a young, 15 year old female’s rights violated in the Plainfield High School recently, yes or no? Sadly, I wonder if the Mapp team would be more involved and/or instrumental in this incident if his daughters were products of the Plainfield School system.
Over the years, I have made smart business decisions that would benefit my family and myself. I work as a full-time State Legislator, making roughly $49,000 a year. I generate just about that amount in real estate taxes here in Union County.
I owned or was in control of the two buildings in Linden that Dan Damon cites, for over 40 years. One was a 5-unit mix-use building, and the other was a 4-unit mix-use building. Together, they both generated an appraisal of one million dollars. The City of Linden and the Union County Improvement Authority offered me $745,000 for both buildings. I accepted the offer because as an elected official, especially in today's fiscal climate, I did not want even a legitimate business transaction to unnerve the public. On a yearly basis, I report the necessary property information to the appropriate entities. In fact, I lost nearly $200,000 on this deal.
I made this investment years before I had any political interest. I began to sell my properties these past few years because I saw the real estate market beginning to plummet. Thus, I find it very, very embarrassing to be accused of thievery, after I have been an honorable and sincere businessman for over 40 years. What makes it so bad is that I am being accused by the likes of Dan Damon, a person who has nothing to show for neither himself nor his community.
The City of Linden is buying up all of the properties in the area in which Dan Damon is talking about, in means of redeveloping the area. If I was making over $100,000 in rentals on a yearly basis, why would I want to sell an investment giving me this much return? Do the math Dan.
My whole life, I have played by the rules, and I have been very blessed in my responsible and successful business practices. Yet now, I am being accused by a person who has done nothing with his life, or for his community. In fact, I do not think he is happy with himself because he does not even know who he is…
Eventually, Dan is going to cross the line, and when he does, I just might end up getting his property for nothing, i.e. the courts.
Ps
Regarding the issue with the Plainfield Police officer, it is my understanding that the matter is under investigation. That being said, the officer will either be charged or cleared. No one is trying to sweep the matter under the rug. Nevertheless, if the evidence shows that the officer broke the law, then like anyone else, the consequences need to be applied to the officer. There are no double standards here.
Now that I have answered Mr. Damon’s questions, he can now answer two of mine: What did you do for 8 years for $65,000 dollars per year? Other than print misinformation, help the City loose $500,000 in grant money, help lose all communication with the governing bodies outside of the City because no one wanted to deal with your false information flooding (blaming everyone except the appropriate parties who just happened to be in your inner circle).
Secondly Dan, Adrian Mapp, and Christian Estevez: Was a young, 15 year old female’s rights violated in the Plainfield High School recently, yes or no? Sadly, I wonder if the Mapp team would be more involved and/or instrumental in this incident if his daughters were products of the Plainfield School system.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Friends of Sleepy Hollow / Shiloh Baptist Forums
Last night I had an opportunity to attend the Friends of Sleepy Hollow (FOSH) meeting regarding the PMUA. I was very impressed by the Friends of Sleepy Hollow in putting this meeting together. They did an excellent job in presenting fairness and non-partiality. I look forward to working with them in the future and gathering answers they are presently seeking.
I attended the meeting not to be critical, but to gather information from the public and their concerns because I am already reaching out to the different agencies who conduct business with the PMUA. Therefore, before making any public comments, I would like to have the facts in front of me. Many good questions were presented on last evening. Those questions that were not answers, or could not be answered, are those that I will present to those agencies that oversee the PMUA on the State level.
I hope that as we move forward with this particular issue, all sides realize that the way the government has done business in the past, has to change. What was ‘ok’ last year, last month, even a week ago, is not the same anymore. As Chairman of Local Government in the State of New Jersey, all local governments come before my committee. I am hearing the same questions asked by other local governments as I am hearing in Plainfield. Our local elected officials should be prepared to give answers and solutions. I have been accused in the past of being the ‘leader’ in Plainfield. One person said last night even that I have the most ‘influence’ in the City.
It is to this instance I must disagree. Yes, I have a working relationship with local elected officials as Chairman of the Plainfield Democratic Committee. However, a line separates political influence over another elected official versus citizen solicitation of elected officials. I am not allowed to, nor have I, used my political accomplishments as influence over another elected official. I have as a resident of Plainfield however, asked elected officials to exert responsible and accountable practices of governance. These freedoms are those that all residents have the right to exercise. Those elected officials then, who continue to mislead the community in saying I use political influence over local officials, are doing the community a huge disservice.
So the ‘influence’ some elected officials have allowed the public to think I have, I am going to use to support any organization, like the Friends of Sleepy Hollow, who feel they are not receiving local cooperation in having their questions answered and their concerns heard. I will continue to practice such action in sound, ethical, and legal means.
As a taxpayer in the City of Plainfield, I came away from the forum at Shiloh Baptist Church with no solutions, and no real answers to the questions being asked. When the candidates at the forum were allowed to put forth false information to the community, without any rebuttal or challenges to this information, this does not help remedy the concerns of the public. For example, there were no real answers from the candidates as to what they would do as mayor regarding the Muhlenberg issue. There was no plan presented by any of the candidates.
The majority of the candidates stated they would not work with politicians in finding solutions for Muhlenberg. In a political arena, whom are they going to deal with? I am dealing with the Governor’s Office, Commissioner of Health’s Office, POP, and area hospitals experiencing the brunt of the closure, daily. Not one of the candidates who participated in the forum has been in communication with these agencies as to how to deal with the Muhlenberg issue.
Another issue last night was dealing with our youth. One of the biggest issues our youth face is the lack of job opportunities, wrong life choices, and a lack of second chances for them. The latter is exactly why I am thoroughly addressing re-entry programs in the City. I am sure then that the majority of the public went away questioning how these candidates would be able to govern the City as mayor.
Another example of questionable facts offered by a candidate was that there are unaccounted monies in City Hall. That candidate then, needs to bring that grievance to the Prosecutor’s Office. Therefore, when one has this type of forum where people are heaving false, baseless information out, it strongly takes away from the credibility of the forum, and it not fair to the other candidates who have to put up with these accusations.
Ps
A few days ago, I brought to the attention of the public an issue dealing with a young female whose rights may have been violated by a security guard at the Plainfield High School. Because the Mapp team controls the Board of Education, their point person, Christian Estevez, who is running on the New Democratic slate as a Committee person, is working very hard behind the scenes to not allow this to become public knowledge. Any other time, Dan Damon and the other bloggers would make this an issue if this were done by the Mayor and her staff. So again, I ask the Mapp and Christian Estevez team, is this true or not? Or are we going to wait until this becomes public knowledge and the City get embarrassed again. Again, Christian Estevez, who is the point person for the Mapp team, is this true or not.
If this were a member of his family, I am sure this issue would have been handled more responsibly. I wonder; is Mr. Estevez more concerned with his wife’s $100,000/yr job, or with the welfare of our City’s children.
I attended the meeting not to be critical, but to gather information from the public and their concerns because I am already reaching out to the different agencies who conduct business with the PMUA. Therefore, before making any public comments, I would like to have the facts in front of me. Many good questions were presented on last evening. Those questions that were not answers, or could not be answered, are those that I will present to those agencies that oversee the PMUA on the State level.
I hope that as we move forward with this particular issue, all sides realize that the way the government has done business in the past, has to change. What was ‘ok’ last year, last month, even a week ago, is not the same anymore. As Chairman of Local Government in the State of New Jersey, all local governments come before my committee. I am hearing the same questions asked by other local governments as I am hearing in Plainfield. Our local elected officials should be prepared to give answers and solutions. I have been accused in the past of being the ‘leader’ in Plainfield. One person said last night even that I have the most ‘influence’ in the City.
It is to this instance I must disagree. Yes, I have a working relationship with local elected officials as Chairman of the Plainfield Democratic Committee. However, a line separates political influence over another elected official versus citizen solicitation of elected officials. I am not allowed to, nor have I, used my political accomplishments as influence over another elected official. I have as a resident of Plainfield however, asked elected officials to exert responsible and accountable practices of governance. These freedoms are those that all residents have the right to exercise. Those elected officials then, who continue to mislead the community in saying I use political influence over local officials, are doing the community a huge disservice.
So the ‘influence’ some elected officials have allowed the public to think I have, I am going to use to support any organization, like the Friends of Sleepy Hollow, who feel they are not receiving local cooperation in having their questions answered and their concerns heard. I will continue to practice such action in sound, ethical, and legal means.
As a taxpayer in the City of Plainfield, I came away from the forum at Shiloh Baptist Church with no solutions, and no real answers to the questions being asked. When the candidates at the forum were allowed to put forth false information to the community, without any rebuttal or challenges to this information, this does not help remedy the concerns of the public. For example, there were no real answers from the candidates as to what they would do as mayor regarding the Muhlenberg issue. There was no plan presented by any of the candidates.
The majority of the candidates stated they would not work with politicians in finding solutions for Muhlenberg. In a political arena, whom are they going to deal with? I am dealing with the Governor’s Office, Commissioner of Health’s Office, POP, and area hospitals experiencing the brunt of the closure, daily. Not one of the candidates who participated in the forum has been in communication with these agencies as to how to deal with the Muhlenberg issue.
Another issue last night was dealing with our youth. One of the biggest issues our youth face is the lack of job opportunities, wrong life choices, and a lack of second chances for them. The latter is exactly why I am thoroughly addressing re-entry programs in the City. I am sure then that the majority of the public went away questioning how these candidates would be able to govern the City as mayor.
Another example of questionable facts offered by a candidate was that there are unaccounted monies in City Hall. That candidate then, needs to bring that grievance to the Prosecutor’s Office. Therefore, when one has this type of forum where people are heaving false, baseless information out, it strongly takes away from the credibility of the forum, and it not fair to the other candidates who have to put up with these accusations.
Ps
A few days ago, I brought to the attention of the public an issue dealing with a young female whose rights may have been violated by a security guard at the Plainfield High School. Because the Mapp team controls the Board of Education, their point person, Christian Estevez, who is running on the New Democratic slate as a Committee person, is working very hard behind the scenes to not allow this to become public knowledge. Any other time, Dan Damon and the other bloggers would make this an issue if this were done by the Mayor and her staff. So again, I ask the Mapp and Christian Estevez team, is this true or not? Or are we going to wait until this becomes public knowledge and the City get embarrassed again. Again, Christian Estevez, who is the point person for the Mapp team, is this true or not.
If this were a member of his family, I am sure this issue would have been handled more responsibly. I wonder; is Mr. Estevez more concerned with his wife’s $100,000/yr job, or with the welfare of our City’s children.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Senate Bill 157 / Protecting Our Kids
Today I was asked to support Senate Bill 157:
-This bill provides that any elected person or appointed to any board of education would be disqualified from service on the board because of a current or past conviction for any of the crimes that, under existing law, disqualify an individual from holding employment in a public school. It provides that the oath of office taken by a member of a board of education prior to assuming office will contain a specific declaration that the member is not disqualified from holding that office due to conviction of one of those crimes of offenses. A member who falsely swears or affirms that he is not disqualified due to a conviction would be guilty of a crime of the fourth degree.
-In addition, the bill requires each member of a board of education, within 30 days of election or appointment to that board, to undergo a criminal history background investigation for the purpose of ensuring that the member is not disqualified from membership due to a conviction of a crime or offense. The State Bureau of Identification will immediately inform the Commissioner of Education of any new charges filed against any member who has previously undergone a background investigation. The cost of the background investigation will be the responsibility of the school board member, but unexpended campaign funds may be used for this purpose. A board member holding office on the bill’s effective date must undergo a background investigation within 30 days.
-Under existing law, a candidate for election to a board of education, when filing a nominating petition, must certify that the candidate is legally qualified to hold that office. Making a false statement made in connection with a nominating petition is a crime of the fourth degree.
I would like feedback from the public on this issue; I want to see how you all feel regarding such a statute. Recently, a school board employee was let go very quietly because a criminal background check was not performed until after he was hired.
In addition, I am researching the policy on the books regarding the criteria for security at the high school for searching students, female students in particular. It is my understanding that Mapp and School Board member Chris Estevez are trying to cover up such activities at the high school, situations where student’s rights are being violated.
-This bill provides that any elected person or appointed to any board of education would be disqualified from service on the board because of a current or past conviction for any of the crimes that, under existing law, disqualify an individual from holding employment in a public school. It provides that the oath of office taken by a member of a board of education prior to assuming office will contain a specific declaration that the member is not disqualified from holding that office due to conviction of one of those crimes of offenses. A member who falsely swears or affirms that he is not disqualified due to a conviction would be guilty of a crime of the fourth degree.
-In addition, the bill requires each member of a board of education, within 30 days of election or appointment to that board, to undergo a criminal history background investigation for the purpose of ensuring that the member is not disqualified from membership due to a conviction of a crime or offense. The State Bureau of Identification will immediately inform the Commissioner of Education of any new charges filed against any member who has previously undergone a background investigation. The cost of the background investigation will be the responsibility of the school board member, but unexpended campaign funds may be used for this purpose. A board member holding office on the bill’s effective date must undergo a background investigation within 30 days.
-Under existing law, a candidate for election to a board of education, when filing a nominating petition, must certify that the candidate is legally qualified to hold that office. Making a false statement made in connection with a nominating petition is a crime of the fourth degree.
I would like feedback from the public on this issue; I want to see how you all feel regarding such a statute. Recently, a school board employee was let go very quietly because a criminal background check was not performed until after he was hired.
In addition, I am researching the policy on the books regarding the criteria for security at the high school for searching students, female students in particular. It is my understanding that Mapp and School Board member Chris Estevez are trying to cover up such activities at the high school, situations where student’s rights are being violated.
Clarity in the Issues of Plainfield and the 22nd District
Over the weekend, I had an opportunity to read the different blogs posted, and I have been accused in the past for attacking people. However, I find it very amusing reading the comments criticizing me because they are so far from the truth. They are so far from the truth that I have no choice but to attempt to clarify the most blatant and relevant misconceptions and falsehoods that flooded the blogs by various bloggers.
The first issue was Muhlenberg Hospital. This is a very serious issue, and no one worked harder on the State level than I did in support of the hospital. To blame me for the closure of it is certainly one of the biggest jokes in New Jersey.
Secondly, I received a phone call from 4th ward council candidate Bridget Rivers saying that she did not invite the Mayor nor I to her 4th ward Meet-and-Greet. With that, for one blogger to write “the mayor was a no-show” is a CLEAR example of how this blogger tries to turn nothing into something. The vehicle they use to perpetuate such an action is misinformation resulting in lies.
Within Mr. Mapp’s blog, just about every other word was accusing me as being a liar. In his blog, he said that he is not running against me, but he is running against the mayor. He should then direct his comments toward his opponents, for I prefer not to even address his fruitless banter. I will not give credence to any of his platforms.
Reading the bios about the candidates in the Courier News, I noticed that Mr. Mapp failed to acknowledge the $100,000+ job that he has in the Borough of Roselle. He is one of the double-dippers that the people in New Jersey are talking about. Due to Mapp’s lack of fiscal managerial skills as Roselle’s Chief Financial Officer, a councilwoman from Roselle drafted a letter citing how the Roselle is not paying their bills on time, as well as Mr. Mapp’s arrogance and disrespect towards women. Yet Mr. Mapp is the same man who wants to pretend that he has the ability to govern and manage Plainfield.
So Mr. Mapp, make up your mind. If you want to run for mayor, run for mayor and discuss issues pertaining to such an office, as opposed to personally attacking me. I am not the type of person who will stand aside and allow such abuse.
My opponent for Assemblyperson, Mr. Rick Smiley, has a record as a city employee and an elected official that I do not even know where to begin. Here is a man that two years in a row, failed to hand in paperwork in time dealing with Plainfield’s Youth programs. Our children suffered from his mismanagement. Mr. Smiley was voted out of office as a School Board member because the City was dissatisfied with his performance. Here is a man that could not win his School Board election. This is why I refuse to give him any attention, because he has done not a thing conducive to the productivity of his local municipality. He was another do-nothing employee of the City that benefitted by being a Card-Carrying New Democrat.
On a positive note, Plainfield and the 22nd District are reaping the benefits of the fruitful working relationship I have developed on the State and Federal levels of government. These constructive relationships are shown through the Federal and State funding aid that is flowing into our District. We have received Federal and State funding for foreclosure and mortgage assistance, education, and crime prevention. Keeping these doors open are primary objectives of my Legislative agenda, objectives that I take seriously and continually execute.
Here is my challenge for Mr. Mapp and Mr. Smiley: What have the two done for the City of Plainfield since the election of President Barack Obama?
The first issue was Muhlenberg Hospital. This is a very serious issue, and no one worked harder on the State level than I did in support of the hospital. To blame me for the closure of it is certainly one of the biggest jokes in New Jersey.
Secondly, I received a phone call from 4th ward council candidate Bridget Rivers saying that she did not invite the Mayor nor I to her 4th ward Meet-and-Greet. With that, for one blogger to write “the mayor was a no-show” is a CLEAR example of how this blogger tries to turn nothing into something. The vehicle they use to perpetuate such an action is misinformation resulting in lies.
Within Mr. Mapp’s blog, just about every other word was accusing me as being a liar. In his blog, he said that he is not running against me, but he is running against the mayor. He should then direct his comments toward his opponents, for I prefer not to even address his fruitless banter. I will not give credence to any of his platforms.
Reading the bios about the candidates in the Courier News, I noticed that Mr. Mapp failed to acknowledge the $100,000+ job that he has in the Borough of Roselle. He is one of the double-dippers that the people in New Jersey are talking about. Due to Mapp’s lack of fiscal managerial skills as Roselle’s Chief Financial Officer, a councilwoman from Roselle drafted a letter citing how the Roselle is not paying their bills on time, as well as Mr. Mapp’s arrogance and disrespect towards women. Yet Mr. Mapp is the same man who wants to pretend that he has the ability to govern and manage Plainfield.
So Mr. Mapp, make up your mind. If you want to run for mayor, run for mayor and discuss issues pertaining to such an office, as opposed to personally attacking me. I am not the type of person who will stand aside and allow such abuse.
My opponent for Assemblyperson, Mr. Rick Smiley, has a record as a city employee and an elected official that I do not even know where to begin. Here is a man that two years in a row, failed to hand in paperwork in time dealing with Plainfield’s Youth programs. Our children suffered from his mismanagement. Mr. Smiley was voted out of office as a School Board member because the City was dissatisfied with his performance. Here is a man that could not win his School Board election. This is why I refuse to give him any attention, because he has done not a thing conducive to the productivity of his local municipality. He was another do-nothing employee of the City that benefitted by being a Card-Carrying New Democrat.
On a positive note, Plainfield and the 22nd District are reaping the benefits of the fruitful working relationship I have developed on the State and Federal levels of government. These constructive relationships are shown through the Federal and State funding aid that is flowing into our District. We have received Federal and State funding for foreclosure and mortgage assistance, education, and crime prevention. Keeping these doors open are primary objectives of my Legislative agenda, objectives that I take seriously and continually execute.
Here is my challenge for Mr. Mapp and Mr. Smiley: What have the two done for the City of Plainfield since the election of President Barack Obama?
Friday, May 8, 2009
Happy Mother's Day!!!
I would like to take this opportunity to wish ALL mothers a Happy Mother’s Day! The mother of a family is very important; often the source of nurture and ‘motherly’ care, no love can match one of a mother. I hope this day serves as one that all mothers can enjoy.
I am happy with Doc’s blog page in his commendation of Courier News’ writer Mark Spivey, and his penning of the $2.5million dollar grant received by Plainfield. Doc was not clear on the grant's authenticity and/or specifics initially, but I am happy Spivey’s article cleared up questions.
The meeting Councilwoman Linda Carter had this past Thursday regarding Emerson School and other community concerns like traffic, speeding, and other quality of life issues, was very interesting, informative, and energy inspiring. It also gave us an opportunity to tell our State Representatives who were in attendance, that we will not make the same mistakes when we begin to make repairs to two of our elementary schools in the 2nd ward. We, as a community, realize that it is better to proactively discuss issues rather than reactively, for in the latter, the damage is already done.
So again, I wish every mother a Happy Mother’s Day, and I will refrain from detailed rebuttal of other concerns I have like being called a liar by Adrian Mapp, when I clearly have no reason to lie about neither he nor anyone else. I am glad that Mr. Mapp has finally realized that he is running against the current mayor and not me. Therefore, as long as he keeps that truth in mind, and directs his personal and political comments toward her and not me, then I will have no problem giving him the respect he deserves as an elected official. However, if he believes he can hide behind Dan Damon and throw stones, then he should be man enough to accept the consequences.
I am happy with Doc’s blog page in his commendation of Courier News’ writer Mark Spivey, and his penning of the $2.5million dollar grant received by Plainfield. Doc was not clear on the grant's authenticity and/or specifics initially, but I am happy Spivey’s article cleared up questions.
The meeting Councilwoman Linda Carter had this past Thursday regarding Emerson School and other community concerns like traffic, speeding, and other quality of life issues, was very interesting, informative, and energy inspiring. It also gave us an opportunity to tell our State Representatives who were in attendance, that we will not make the same mistakes when we begin to make repairs to two of our elementary schools in the 2nd ward. We, as a community, realize that it is better to proactively discuss issues rather than reactively, for in the latter, the damage is already done.
So again, I wish every mother a Happy Mother’s Day, and I will refrain from detailed rebuttal of other concerns I have like being called a liar by Adrian Mapp, when I clearly have no reason to lie about neither he nor anyone else. I am glad that Mr. Mapp has finally realized that he is running against the current mayor and not me. Therefore, as long as he keeps that truth in mind, and directs his personal and political comments toward her and not me, then I will have no problem giving him the respect he deserves as an elected official. However, if he believes he can hide behind Dan Damon and throw stones, then he should be man enough to accept the consequences.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
NEIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATION PROGRAM FUNDS ANNOUNCED
$49.4 Million Will Be Used To Revitalize Neighborhoods Hard Hit By Foreclosure
ELIZABETH – Governor Jon S. Corzine today joined Elizabeth Mayor J. Christian Bollwage and Department of Community Affairs (DCA) Commissioner Joseph Doria in announcing the award of $49.4 million in Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) funds to municipalities across New Jersey. 35 grants will be awarded to 22 municipalities and two counties.
“It is critical that we take action to mitigate the destabilizing affect foreclosures and vacant homes can have on our neighborhoods and that is why these Neighborhood Stabilization funds are so important,” said Governor Corzine. “These funds will provide much needed assistance in improving the health and viability of our communities and position them for future growth. By keeping our communities strong, we are keeping New Jersey strong.”
As a component of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 (HERA), the NSP is specifically intended to stabilize neighborhoods experiencing the negative effects of the subprime mortgage crisis and the general economic downturn. These localities are identified as those hard hit by foreclosures and are statistically at high risk of continued market deterioration. Funds from the NSP can be used for property acquisition, demolition, rehabilitation and for the creation and operation of land banks, in any combination, to spur neighborhood recovery.
“Governor Corzine was at the forefront of recognizing and taking action against the current foreclosure crisis,” said Commissioner Doria. “NSP funding is a key part of the Governor’s initiative and will go a long way towards revitalizing communities hit hardest by the foreclosures.”
The DCA selected recipients whose plans targeted neighborhoods with existing community planning infrastructure, relevant economic assistance and counseling programs. These areas include those that are either participating in the State’s Neighborhood Preservation Program, have plans and private investment through the Neighborhood Revitalization Tax Credit, have ongoing Community Development Block Grant investment or have been a target for other state, county or local investment. Local availability of foreclosure prevention programs and other community-based assistance were also weighed in the selection process.
Under the terms of HERA, an NSP grantee has 18 months to encumber the funds. The 18-month clock began with HUD’s execution of the Grant Agreement on March 9, 2009. Complete expenditure of all programmatic funds must be complete within a four-year period ending on March 9, 2013. President Obama has made clear that transparency and accountability are of the highest priority and DCA will closely monitor the ability and progression of municipalities and organizations to encumber and expend these funds. Should any municipality or organization fail to adhere to the strict spending and timing guidelines as outlined under HERA, the DCA will take the necessary steps to reclaim any already expended funds.
“Neighborhood Stabilization Program funds will allow us to continue working with community partners in stabilizing our housing market," said Mayor Bollwage. “All of our funded projects will promote employment growth, continue neighborhood revitalization, and enhance overall quality of life.”
DCA published an RFP last December that was open to local governments, for-profit and non-profit developers and non-profit organizations. Applicants had to develop and propose a set of interventions that were both allowable under NSP regulations and appropriate to the local circumstance. DCA held information sessions over the last few months to provide information on NSP funding.
For further information on the NSP, please log on to http://www.nj.gov/dca/, or call 609-633-6283
Here is the complete list of municipalities and organizations awarded NSP funding:
Grantee / Municipality / County / Award
Interfaith Neighbors, Inc. / Asbury Park / Monmouth / $2,500,000
Buena Vista Township / Buena Vista / Atlantic / $826,908
Burlington City / Burlington City / Burlington / $1,672,675
RPM Development, LLC / Camden / Camden / $2,500,000
Parkside BCIP, Inc. / Camden / Camden / $350,000
Heart of Camden / Camden / Camden / $1,337,302
Beacon.Org, Inc. / Clementon / Camden / $622,716
HANDS / East Orange / Essex / $651,233
City of Elizabeth* / Elizabeth / Union / $750,000
City of Elizabeth* / Elizabeth / Union / $240,000
City of Elizabeth* / Elizabeth / Union / $447,139
City of Elizabeth* / Elizabeth / Union / $720,000
City of Elizabeth* / Elizabeth / Union / $500,000
City of Elizabeth* / Elizabeth / Union / $600,000
City of Elizabeth* / Elizabeth / Union / $349,317
City of Elizabeth* / Elizabeth / Union / $203,000
Allies, Inc. / Hamilton / Mercer / $625,000
Brand New Day, Inc. / Irvington / Essex / $2,000,000
Episcopal Community Development, Inc. / Irvington / Essex / $1,750,000
Jersey City / Jersey City / Hudson / $1,700,000
Episcopal Community Development, Inc. / Newark / Essex / $1,950,000
Newark PHA / Newark / Essex / $2,500,000
Orange City Township / Orange / Essex / $1,500,000
Passaic City West / Passaic / Passaic / $2,437,775
Paterson Habitat for Humanity / Paterson / Passaic / $1,923,750
Perth Amboy / Perth Amboy / Middlesex / $1,700,000
Faith, Bricks & Mortar, Inc. / Plainfield / Union / $2,500,000
Pleasantville Housing Authority / Pleasantville / Atlantic / $1,773,000
Domus Corporation / Rahway / Union / $170,000
Roselle Borough / Roselle / Union / $2,500,000
Trenton City / Trenton / Mercer / $2,500,000
Willingboro Township / Willingboro / Burlington / $2,000,000
Woodbine Borough / Woodbine / Cape May / $689,657
Cumberland County Empowerment Zone / Cumberland / $2,500,000
Gloucester County / Gloucester / $2,500,000
Total $49,489,422
*Represents different & distinct sections of Elizabeth
ELIZABETH – Governor Jon S. Corzine today joined Elizabeth Mayor J. Christian Bollwage and Department of Community Affairs (DCA) Commissioner Joseph Doria in announcing the award of $49.4 million in Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) funds to municipalities across New Jersey. 35 grants will be awarded to 22 municipalities and two counties.
“It is critical that we take action to mitigate the destabilizing affect foreclosures and vacant homes can have on our neighborhoods and that is why these Neighborhood Stabilization funds are so important,” said Governor Corzine. “These funds will provide much needed assistance in improving the health and viability of our communities and position them for future growth. By keeping our communities strong, we are keeping New Jersey strong.”
As a component of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 (HERA), the NSP is specifically intended to stabilize neighborhoods experiencing the negative effects of the subprime mortgage crisis and the general economic downturn. These localities are identified as those hard hit by foreclosures and are statistically at high risk of continued market deterioration. Funds from the NSP can be used for property acquisition, demolition, rehabilitation and for the creation and operation of land banks, in any combination, to spur neighborhood recovery.
“Governor Corzine was at the forefront of recognizing and taking action against the current foreclosure crisis,” said Commissioner Doria. “NSP funding is a key part of the Governor’s initiative and will go a long way towards revitalizing communities hit hardest by the foreclosures.”
The DCA selected recipients whose plans targeted neighborhoods with existing community planning infrastructure, relevant economic assistance and counseling programs. These areas include those that are either participating in the State’s Neighborhood Preservation Program, have plans and private investment through the Neighborhood Revitalization Tax Credit, have ongoing Community Development Block Grant investment or have been a target for other state, county or local investment. Local availability of foreclosure prevention programs and other community-based assistance were also weighed in the selection process.
Under the terms of HERA, an NSP grantee has 18 months to encumber the funds. The 18-month clock began with HUD’s execution of the Grant Agreement on March 9, 2009. Complete expenditure of all programmatic funds must be complete within a four-year period ending on March 9, 2013. President Obama has made clear that transparency and accountability are of the highest priority and DCA will closely monitor the ability and progression of municipalities and organizations to encumber and expend these funds. Should any municipality or organization fail to adhere to the strict spending and timing guidelines as outlined under HERA, the DCA will take the necessary steps to reclaim any already expended funds.
“Neighborhood Stabilization Program funds will allow us to continue working with community partners in stabilizing our housing market," said Mayor Bollwage. “All of our funded projects will promote employment growth, continue neighborhood revitalization, and enhance overall quality of life.”
DCA published an RFP last December that was open to local governments, for-profit and non-profit developers and non-profit organizations. Applicants had to develop and propose a set of interventions that were both allowable under NSP regulations and appropriate to the local circumstance. DCA held information sessions over the last few months to provide information on NSP funding.
For further information on the NSP, please log on to http://www.nj.gov/dca/, or call 609-633-6283
Here is the complete list of municipalities and organizations awarded NSP funding:
Grantee / Municipality / County / Award
Interfaith Neighbors, Inc. / Asbury Park / Monmouth / $2,500,000
Buena Vista Township / Buena Vista / Atlantic / $826,908
Burlington City / Burlington City / Burlington / $1,672,675
RPM Development, LLC / Camden / Camden / $2,500,000
Parkside BCIP, Inc. / Camden / Camden / $350,000
Heart of Camden / Camden / Camden / $1,337,302
Beacon.Org, Inc. / Clementon / Camden / $622,716
HANDS / East Orange / Essex / $651,233
City of Elizabeth* / Elizabeth / Union / $750,000
City of Elizabeth* / Elizabeth / Union / $240,000
City of Elizabeth* / Elizabeth / Union / $447,139
City of Elizabeth* / Elizabeth / Union / $720,000
City of Elizabeth* / Elizabeth / Union / $500,000
City of Elizabeth* / Elizabeth / Union / $600,000
City of Elizabeth* / Elizabeth / Union / $349,317
City of Elizabeth* / Elizabeth / Union / $203,000
Allies, Inc. / Hamilton / Mercer / $625,000
Brand New Day, Inc. / Irvington / Essex / $2,000,000
Episcopal Community Development, Inc. / Irvington / Essex / $1,750,000
Jersey City / Jersey City / Hudson / $1,700,000
Episcopal Community Development, Inc. / Newark / Essex / $1,950,000
Newark PHA / Newark / Essex / $2,500,000
Orange City Township / Orange / Essex / $1,500,000
Passaic City West / Passaic / Passaic / $2,437,775
Paterson Habitat for Humanity / Paterson / Passaic / $1,923,750
Perth Amboy / Perth Amboy / Middlesex / $1,700,000
Faith, Bricks & Mortar, Inc. / Plainfield / Union / $2,500,000
Pleasantville Housing Authority / Pleasantville / Atlantic / $1,773,000
Domus Corporation / Rahway / Union / $170,000
Roselle Borough / Roselle / Union / $2,500,000
Trenton City / Trenton / Mercer / $2,500,000
Willingboro Township / Willingboro / Burlington / $2,000,000
Woodbine Borough / Woodbine / Cape May / $689,657
Cumberland County Empowerment Zone / Cumberland / $2,500,000
Gloucester County / Gloucester / $2,500,000
Total $49,489,422
*Represents different & distinct sections of Elizabeth
***Notice to Our Neighbors from the New Jersey Schools Development Authority***
The New Jersey Schools Development Authority wishes to keep you updated with information relative to the construction of the playground and parking lot at the Emerson Community School.
On April 23, 2009, abatement work began on the vacant residential buildings in the area surrounding the Emerson Community School located at 305 Emerson Avenue, Plainfield, NJ. The abatement work requires the removal of asbestos from the interior of the existing residential buildings and work is expected to last for approximately four (4) weeks. Immediately following the abatement work, the vacant residential buildings will be demolished. The demolition of the residential buildings will begin on or about the week of May 4, 2009. Demolition work is also expected to last for approximately four (4) weeks.
The New Jersey Schools Development Authority wishes to make you aware of the following items concerning this phase of construction:
The contractor on the construction sire is D&K Construction Company
Construction work hours are 7:00 am to 3:300 pm, Monday through Friday.
Construction trucks and vehicles will be entering and exiting the site daily during the abatement and demolition phases.
All vehicles will be secured and inspected prior to leaving the site.
Construction traffic will enter and exit the site on Sumner Avenue.
All work will be performed in accordance with the SDA safety protocols.
There will be daily air-conditioning at the site.
Abatement and demolition work is anticipated to be complete by June 1, 2009. Immediately following demolition, the surrounding area will be paved, curbs and sidewalks will be installed and landscaping work will be done. The new playground and parking lot is anticipated to be completed by September 2009 and ready for the new school year. The New Jersey Schools Development Authority will make every effort to minimize disruptions and noise during construction.
Should you have any questions concerning this activity please call Andrea Pasquini, Communications Coordinator or Carol A. Murphy, Manager Community Relations at the New Jersey Schools Development at (609) 943-4585. We appreciate your consideration and we will continue to keep you informed in the weeks ahead.
On April 23, 2009, abatement work began on the vacant residential buildings in the area surrounding the Emerson Community School located at 305 Emerson Avenue, Plainfield, NJ. The abatement work requires the removal of asbestos from the interior of the existing residential buildings and work is expected to last for approximately four (4) weeks. Immediately following the abatement work, the vacant residential buildings will be demolished. The demolition of the residential buildings will begin on or about the week of May 4, 2009. Demolition work is also expected to last for approximately four (4) weeks.
The New Jersey Schools Development Authority wishes to make you aware of the following items concerning this phase of construction:
The contractor on the construction sire is D&K Construction Company
Construction work hours are 7:00 am to 3:300 pm, Monday through Friday.
Construction trucks and vehicles will be entering and exiting the site daily during the abatement and demolition phases.
All vehicles will be secured and inspected prior to leaving the site.
Construction traffic will enter and exit the site on Sumner Avenue.
All work will be performed in accordance with the SDA safety protocols.
There will be daily air-conditioning at the site.
Abatement and demolition work is anticipated to be complete by June 1, 2009. Immediately following demolition, the surrounding area will be paved, curbs and sidewalks will be installed and landscaping work will be done. The new playground and parking lot is anticipated to be completed by September 2009 and ready for the new school year. The New Jersey Schools Development Authority will make every effort to minimize disruptions and noise during construction.
Should you have any questions concerning this activity please call Andrea Pasquini, Communications Coordinator or Carol A. Murphy, Manager Community Relations at the New Jersey Schools Development at (609) 943-4585. We appreciate your consideration and we will continue to keep you informed in the weeks ahead.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Reiteration on State Comptroller Request / Tonight's Council Meeting
Today I had an opportunity to read Dan Damon’s blog. I would like to respond to some of his concerns. Despite Mr. Damon’s tone in his blog, I am taking the high road in my responses.
Regarding his first concern, I have reached out for the Office of the State Comptroller. If there are some who are not satisfied with the answers I receive from the State, residents have the same opportunity to call the State Comptroller’s Office themselves, and voice their concerns. When investigating concerns, the Comptroller’s office has a policy of having ‘closed’ investigations, meaning they do not go public until they have completely investigated an issue. That policy then, hinders seeing anything formalize in writing until the investigation is completed. With that, I have no control over the timetable of response.
Asking for something in writing at this particular time would not serve any positive purpose, but would only frustrate both the public and the Comptroller’s office. This policy of releasing information only until the investigation is complete defeats rumor-based information, giving way to factual, direct information. So if anyone like Dan Damon would like to call the State Comptroller’s Office, please, be my guest.
As previously stated, in order for me to make my informed decision in this matter, I want to ensure that the information I receive and share is studied, informed, and reliable. Having this sort of information at our disposal negates half-answered truths, as well as misinformation. Once I get the information from the State, I am sharing it with the public.
The third issue Mr. Damon voiced regarding the documentation and explanation of PMUA’s funding agenda for junkets is public information that anyone in the City can attain by filing an OPRA request form. By law, the PMUA has to make this information publicly available. I am confident that this law is in place to make sure that Dan and any other taxpayer in Plainfield can and will receive this information in a timely fashion.
Tonight Lucille Davy, the State Commissioner of Education, will be meeting with me to discuss educational issues with the Council President and council members dealing with school funding and the defeated school budget. This is a vital part of my job that I am elected to fulfill; field community concerns, contact the appropriate State Department agency, and deliver. This is a part of my job that gets easier by the year because of the respectful and productive working relations I have with the various State agencies.
Regarding his first concern, I have reached out for the Office of the State Comptroller. If there are some who are not satisfied with the answers I receive from the State, residents have the same opportunity to call the State Comptroller’s Office themselves, and voice their concerns. When investigating concerns, the Comptroller’s office has a policy of having ‘closed’ investigations, meaning they do not go public until they have completely investigated an issue. That policy then, hinders seeing anything formalize in writing until the investigation is completed. With that, I have no control over the timetable of response.
Asking for something in writing at this particular time would not serve any positive purpose, but would only frustrate both the public and the Comptroller’s office. This policy of releasing information only until the investigation is complete defeats rumor-based information, giving way to factual, direct information. So if anyone like Dan Damon would like to call the State Comptroller’s Office, please, be my guest.
As previously stated, in order for me to make my informed decision in this matter, I want to ensure that the information I receive and share is studied, informed, and reliable. Having this sort of information at our disposal negates half-answered truths, as well as misinformation. Once I get the information from the State, I am sharing it with the public.
The third issue Mr. Damon voiced regarding the documentation and explanation of PMUA’s funding agenda for junkets is public information that anyone in the City can attain by filing an OPRA request form. By law, the PMUA has to make this information publicly available. I am confident that this law is in place to make sure that Dan and any other taxpayer in Plainfield can and will receive this information in a timely fashion.
Tonight Lucille Davy, the State Commissioner of Education, will be meeting with me to discuss educational issues with the Council President and council members dealing with school funding and the defeated school budget. This is a vital part of my job that I am elected to fulfill; field community concerns, contact the appropriate State Department agency, and deliver. This is a part of my job that gets easier by the year because of the respectful and productive working relations I have with the various State agencies.
Friday, May 1, 2009
GOVERNOR CORZINE COMMENTS ON SCHOOL FUNDING REFORM
TRENTON - Meeting the educational needs of all of New Jersey’s children in an equitable and fair manner has been the primary impetus behind the State’s School Funding Reform Act, Governor Corzine said earlier today.
“We really needed to replace a flawed, decades old, ad-hoc state aid system with something that could deliver a balanced and nonpartisan formula and address the needs of all students, regardless of where they live,” said the Governor. “What was developed after intensive work by the Department of Education, administration officials, legislators and stakeholders is a system that puts the needs of all children on equal footing toward future success.
“It also is providing significant relief to local property taxpayers, who for decades have shouldered the important yet growing cost of education. I am confident that this is the right policy from the standpoint of our children and from the standpoint of the law.”
Governor Corzine signed the School Funding Reform Act in January 2008, establishing for the first time in a decade a new system of funding for public school districts throughout New Jersey.
With the School Funding Reform Act, New Jersey is more equitably distributing funds across the state and doing so based on the needs of individual students. Under the new formula passed last year, resources for K-12 education were increased by nearly $500 million. In the Governor’s proposed FY 2010 budget, direct school aid is increased by another $300 million.
The State has continued to maintain high levels of funding for the Abbott districts while adding significant aid to districts around the state with high concentrations of low-income students. Under the historic new formula, 51% of districts are receiving at least a 10% state aid increase this academic year. Those are substantial increases for 305 districts that went toward meeting students’ educational needs.
“The School Funding Reform Act is a major step forward for education reform in our state,” said Education Commissioner Lucille E. Davy. “It ties together a number of initiatives that the Governor, the Legislature, and the department have been working on for several years. First, it helps to ensure that all of our children are prepared for success in the 21st century world by providing for an equitable distribution of resources and it increases the resources we are providing. Secondly, it requires districts to adhere to the efficiency reforms embodied in CORE and the district performance accountability reforms embodied in the new state monitoring system and the new student level data base.”
Furthering his commitment to education, Governor Corzine signed legislation last July providing $3.9 billion in state financing to replace or rebuild dozens of substandard schools across the state. These funds are being used to prioritize vital projects, particularly projects that will address health and safety concerns as well, over-crowding, early childhood education and special education needs.
History of New Jersey School Funding
February 1970 Robinson v. Cahill, the original school funding lawsuit, is filed alleging the state's method of funding public education discriminates against urban districts
October 1970 New school funding law is enacted
April 1973 The New Jersey Supreme Court rules law is inadequate
September 1975 Legislature enacts Public School Education Act, commonly known at the T&E (thorough and efficient) law, but the Legislature does not raise funds to pay for the new school funding formula
July 1, 1976 The New Jersey Supreme Court orders schools closed until the Legislature comes up with a way to pay for the new school funding law
July 8, 1976 Under Gov. Brendan Byrne the state income tax is enacted to provide funding to meet the mandates of the T&E law
February 1981 The Education Law Center files Abbott v. Burke lawsuit, challenging the adequacy of the new funding law
July 1985 The New Jersey Supreme Court orders an administrative law hearing on the merits of the Abbott v. Burke case
August 1988 Administrative Law Judge Steven Lefelt issues 600-page decision finding in favor of the urban school children and recommending a complete revamping of the school funding system
May 1990 Anticipating the T&E law is going to be struck down, Gov. Jim Florio pushes for the introduction of the Quality Education Act along with tax increases to pay for the new law
June 1990 The New Jersey Supreme Court strikes down the T&E law in Abbott v. Burke II and orders the Legislature to close the spending gap between the rich and poor districts and to provide extra funding for programs to wipe out the disadvantages suffered by poor urban students
July 1990 Gov. Jim Florio signs into law the Quality Education Act which includes increases in taxes
July 1992 Education Law Center files another lawsuit charging the Quality Education Act does not comply with the mandates of the Abbott II court ruling
August 1993 Superior Court Judge Paul Levy declares the formula unconstitutional
July 1994 The New Jersey Supreme Court concludes the new law is unconstitutional
December 1996 The Comprehensive Educational Improvement and Financing Act (CIEFA) is signed into law by Gov. Christie Whitman
May 1997 The New Jersey Supreme Court declares CIEFA unconstitutional as applied to the Abbott districts
January 1998 After eight weeks of hearings in Trenton, Appellate Division Judge Michael Patrick King recommends to the New Jersey Supreme Court a series of supplemental programs to help close the learning gap between the rich and poor districts
May 1998 Using Judge King's recommendations as a benchmark, the New Jersey Supreme lays out supplemental programs that are required under Abbott ruling including pre-school for 3- and 4 –year olds, social services, increased security, after school and summer programs
1998 to 2002 CIEFA is funded bringing parity to school districts
March 2000 The New Jersey Supreme Court rules the state has failed to provide high-quality preschool programs as required
May 2000 The New Jersey Supreme Court issues ruling requiring the state to pay for school construction in the Abbott districts
July 2000 The Legislature passes the Educational Facilities Construction and Financing Act, providing funds for school construction statewide including Abbott districts
February 2002 Gov. Jim McGreevey announces plans to work with the Education Law Center to craft a law that meets constitutional muster
March 2002 The Education Law Center agrees to a McGreevey administration proposed one-year freeze on increases in funding
2002 to 2006 CIEFA is no longer funded and state aid to non-Abbott districts is increased across-the-board on a percentage basis or held flat
October, 2006: Joint Legislative Committee on Public School Funding Reform begins hearings.
December 2006: DOE releases the Report on the Cost of Education (RCE) which outlines the components of a school funding formula. http://www.state.nj.us/education/sff/archive/report.pdf
December, 2006-December, 2007: DOE holds a series of school funding formula public hearings and meetings with legislators and other stakeholders
Dec. 12, 2007 Gov. Jon S. Corzine publicly announces a proposed new school funding law – the School Funding Reform Act -- which creates a comprehensive, unified and equitable school funding formula
Dec. 13, 2007 Legislative hearings are held on the proposal
Jan. 7, 2008 Legislature passes the School Funding Reform Act (Assembly 41 to 37 and Senate 23 to 13)
Jan. 13, 2008 Gov. Jon S. Corzine signs the SRFA
March 18 2008 The Attorney General's Office files a petition asking the state Supreme Court to uphold the SFRA as constitutional
Nov. 18, 2008 The New Jersey Supreme Court orders a lower court hearing to determine if the new formula is constitutional
February/March 2009 Superior Court Judge Peter Doyne holds hearings on the constitutionality of the new funding formula
March 2009 Judge Peter Doyne recommends to the Supreme Court that the school-funding formula provides more than sufficient resources to provide a thorough and efficient education, rejecting arguments advanced by lawyers for the 31 Abbott school districts and paving the way for a more equitable distribution of school aid
April 28, 2009 Oral arguments are held before the New Jersey Supreme Court on the new school funding formula
“We really needed to replace a flawed, decades old, ad-hoc state aid system with something that could deliver a balanced and nonpartisan formula and address the needs of all students, regardless of where they live,” said the Governor. “What was developed after intensive work by the Department of Education, administration officials, legislators and stakeholders is a system that puts the needs of all children on equal footing toward future success.
“It also is providing significant relief to local property taxpayers, who for decades have shouldered the important yet growing cost of education. I am confident that this is the right policy from the standpoint of our children and from the standpoint of the law.”
Governor Corzine signed the School Funding Reform Act in January 2008, establishing for the first time in a decade a new system of funding for public school districts throughout New Jersey.
With the School Funding Reform Act, New Jersey is more equitably distributing funds across the state and doing so based on the needs of individual students. Under the new formula passed last year, resources for K-12 education were increased by nearly $500 million. In the Governor’s proposed FY 2010 budget, direct school aid is increased by another $300 million.
The State has continued to maintain high levels of funding for the Abbott districts while adding significant aid to districts around the state with high concentrations of low-income students. Under the historic new formula, 51% of districts are receiving at least a 10% state aid increase this academic year. Those are substantial increases for 305 districts that went toward meeting students’ educational needs.
“The School Funding Reform Act is a major step forward for education reform in our state,” said Education Commissioner Lucille E. Davy. “It ties together a number of initiatives that the Governor, the Legislature, and the department have been working on for several years. First, it helps to ensure that all of our children are prepared for success in the 21st century world by providing for an equitable distribution of resources and it increases the resources we are providing. Secondly, it requires districts to adhere to the efficiency reforms embodied in CORE and the district performance accountability reforms embodied in the new state monitoring system and the new student level data base.”
Furthering his commitment to education, Governor Corzine signed legislation last July providing $3.9 billion in state financing to replace or rebuild dozens of substandard schools across the state. These funds are being used to prioritize vital projects, particularly projects that will address health and safety concerns as well, over-crowding, early childhood education and special education needs.
History of New Jersey School Funding
February 1970 Robinson v. Cahill, the original school funding lawsuit, is filed alleging the state's method of funding public education discriminates against urban districts
October 1970 New school funding law is enacted
April 1973 The New Jersey Supreme Court rules law is inadequate
September 1975 Legislature enacts Public School Education Act, commonly known at the T&E (thorough and efficient) law, but the Legislature does not raise funds to pay for the new school funding formula
July 1, 1976 The New Jersey Supreme Court orders schools closed until the Legislature comes up with a way to pay for the new school funding law
July 8, 1976 Under Gov. Brendan Byrne the state income tax is enacted to provide funding to meet the mandates of the T&E law
February 1981 The Education Law Center files Abbott v. Burke lawsuit, challenging the adequacy of the new funding law
July 1985 The New Jersey Supreme Court orders an administrative law hearing on the merits of the Abbott v. Burke case
August 1988 Administrative Law Judge Steven Lefelt issues 600-page decision finding in favor of the urban school children and recommending a complete revamping of the school funding system
May 1990 Anticipating the T&E law is going to be struck down, Gov. Jim Florio pushes for the introduction of the Quality Education Act along with tax increases to pay for the new law
June 1990 The New Jersey Supreme Court strikes down the T&E law in Abbott v. Burke II and orders the Legislature to close the spending gap between the rich and poor districts and to provide extra funding for programs to wipe out the disadvantages suffered by poor urban students
July 1990 Gov. Jim Florio signs into law the Quality Education Act which includes increases in taxes
July 1992 Education Law Center files another lawsuit charging the Quality Education Act does not comply with the mandates of the Abbott II court ruling
August 1993 Superior Court Judge Paul Levy declares the formula unconstitutional
July 1994 The New Jersey Supreme Court concludes the new law is unconstitutional
December 1996 The Comprehensive Educational Improvement and Financing Act (CIEFA) is signed into law by Gov. Christie Whitman
May 1997 The New Jersey Supreme Court declares CIEFA unconstitutional as applied to the Abbott districts
January 1998 After eight weeks of hearings in Trenton, Appellate Division Judge Michael Patrick King recommends to the New Jersey Supreme Court a series of supplemental programs to help close the learning gap between the rich and poor districts
May 1998 Using Judge King's recommendations as a benchmark, the New Jersey Supreme lays out supplemental programs that are required under Abbott ruling including pre-school for 3- and 4 –year olds, social services, increased security, after school and summer programs
1998 to 2002 CIEFA is funded bringing parity to school districts
March 2000 The New Jersey Supreme Court rules the state has failed to provide high-quality preschool programs as required
May 2000 The New Jersey Supreme Court issues ruling requiring the state to pay for school construction in the Abbott districts
July 2000 The Legislature passes the Educational Facilities Construction and Financing Act, providing funds for school construction statewide including Abbott districts
February 2002 Gov. Jim McGreevey announces plans to work with the Education Law Center to craft a law that meets constitutional muster
March 2002 The Education Law Center agrees to a McGreevey administration proposed one-year freeze on increases in funding
2002 to 2006 CIEFA is no longer funded and state aid to non-Abbott districts is increased across-the-board on a percentage basis or held flat
October, 2006: Joint Legislative Committee on Public School Funding Reform begins hearings.
December 2006: DOE releases the Report on the Cost of Education (RCE) which outlines the components of a school funding formula. http://www.state.nj.us/education/sff/archive/report.pdf
December, 2006-December, 2007: DOE holds a series of school funding formula public hearings and meetings with legislators and other stakeholders
Dec. 12, 2007 Gov. Jon S. Corzine publicly announces a proposed new school funding law – the School Funding Reform Act -- which creates a comprehensive, unified and equitable school funding formula
Dec. 13, 2007 Legislative hearings are held on the proposal
Jan. 7, 2008 Legislature passes the School Funding Reform Act (Assembly 41 to 37 and Senate 23 to 13)
Jan. 13, 2008 Gov. Jon S. Corzine signs the SRFA
March 18 2008 The Attorney General's Office files a petition asking the state Supreme Court to uphold the SFRA as constitutional
Nov. 18, 2008 The New Jersey Supreme Court orders a lower court hearing to determine if the new formula is constitutional
February/March 2009 Superior Court Judge Peter Doyne holds hearings on the constitutionality of the new funding formula
March 2009 Judge Peter Doyne recommends to the Supreme Court that the school-funding formula provides more than sufficient resources to provide a thorough and efficient education, rejecting arguments advanced by lawyers for the 31 Abbott school districts and paving the way for a more equitable distribution of school aid
April 28, 2009 Oral arguments are held before the New Jersey Supreme Court on the new school funding formula
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