Reorginization 1/8/04
The start of a new year is traditionally a time for change. Many people make resolutions to lose weight, stop smoking or otherwise make positive changes to their lives.
This past Election Day, the 2004 Hazlet Township Committee made a resolution to approach municipal administration with respect for the citizens it governs. At the first township meeting of this year, our new township committee demonstrated their determination to bring positive change to the community.
Paul Coughlin, our new mayor, is committed to leading a team of officials, professionals and volunteers, who dedicate their services to more than the exertion and maintenance of their political party’s power.
As Deputy Mayor, Michael Sachs’ experience with, and knowledge of our township, county and state operational government will enable Mayor Coughlin to achieve his goals.
Along with committeepersons Tracey Maffiore and Scott Aagre, the republican majority is allowing the concerns of taxpayers to influence of the shape of our township government.
Mayor Coughlin did not reappoint planning board members who have based their votes on personal or political agendas, instead of on the legality of each application. Mayor Coughlin replaced other board and committee members with citizens who exhibit relevant expertise or aspire to advance more than their own power.
We have a new township attorney, James Gorman. In addition to serving as the counsel for the Hazlet Township Sewerage Authority, Mr. Gorman has represented several municipalities in various capacities throughout his career. His fees are lower than are those of our previous attorney.
Mayor Coughlin has fulfilled a campaign promise. Because the previous administration never sufficiently explained or documented the appointed position of Special Counsel, the township committee intentionally left this position unfilled.
Mayor Coughlin spoke of changes during is inaugural address. He is developing plans to engage the input of his constituents.
He suggested holding some of the township committee meetings at various locations around town. Working with the PTO organizations, the committee hopes to attract concerned residents who will voice their complaints and suggestions.
Mayor Coughlin will continue Meet the Mayor night. Initiated by former Mayor Christopher Cullen, this forum became nothing more than a chance to campaign unchallenged during his failed bid for re-election. Instead of seeking support for his own agenda, Mayor Coughlin will maintain the focus on hearing the citizens’ concerns and ideas.
Any citizen can address the township committee during the public portion of the regular meetings. For those less inclined to speak publicly, the republican members regularly make themselves available after the meetings.
No matter what this enthusiastic administrative team ultimately decides to accomplish, it is already obvious that service, rather than power, is their primary focus. Clearly, their goal is to improve the quality of life in Hazlet.
Public safety, the sewerage authority, school and property taxes, over development, a new town hall and many other issues are on this township committee’s agenda. They achieved their first goal in one meeting by following through on their resolve to bring dignity and common sense to the government of Hazlet Township.
As the voters reminded the local Democrats during the last two elections, power is fleeting for those in office who make little effort to earn the respect of the people who vote to grant them authority.
This past Election Day, the 2004 Hazlet Township Committee made a resolution to approach municipal administration with respect for the citizens it governs. At the first township meeting of this year, our new township committee demonstrated their determination to bring positive change to the community.
Paul Coughlin, our new mayor, is committed to leading a team of officials, professionals and volunteers, who dedicate their services to more than the exertion and maintenance of their political party’s power.
As Deputy Mayor, Michael Sachs’ experience with, and knowledge of our township, county and state operational government will enable Mayor Coughlin to achieve his goals.
Along with committeepersons Tracey Maffiore and Scott Aagre, the republican majority is allowing the concerns of taxpayers to influence of the shape of our township government.
Mayor Coughlin did not reappoint planning board members who have based their votes on personal or political agendas, instead of on the legality of each application. Mayor Coughlin replaced other board and committee members with citizens who exhibit relevant expertise or aspire to advance more than their own power.
We have a new township attorney, James Gorman. In addition to serving as the counsel for the Hazlet Township Sewerage Authority, Mr. Gorman has represented several municipalities in various capacities throughout his career. His fees are lower than are those of our previous attorney.
Mayor Coughlin has fulfilled a campaign promise. Because the previous administration never sufficiently explained or documented the appointed position of Special Counsel, the township committee intentionally left this position unfilled.
Mayor Coughlin spoke of changes during is inaugural address. He is developing plans to engage the input of his constituents.
He suggested holding some of the township committee meetings at various locations around town. Working with the PTO organizations, the committee hopes to attract concerned residents who will voice their complaints and suggestions.
Mayor Coughlin will continue Meet the Mayor night. Initiated by former Mayor Christopher Cullen, this forum became nothing more than a chance to campaign unchallenged during his failed bid for re-election. Instead of seeking support for his own agenda, Mayor Coughlin will maintain the focus on hearing the citizens’ concerns and ideas.
Any citizen can address the township committee during the public portion of the regular meetings. For those less inclined to speak publicly, the republican members regularly make themselves available after the meetings.
No matter what this enthusiastic administrative team ultimately decides to accomplish, it is already obvious that service, rather than power, is their primary focus. Clearly, their goal is to improve the quality of life in Hazlet.
Public safety, the sewerage authority, school and property taxes, over development, a new town hall and many other issues are on this township committee’s agenda. They achieved their first goal in one meeting by following through on their resolve to bring dignity and common sense to the government of Hazlet Township.
As the voters reminded the local Democrats during the last two elections, power is fleeting for those in office who make little effort to earn the respect of the people who vote to grant them authority.
posted by Rich Kohler at 7:39 AM
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