Issues, problems and solutions
1) The biggest issue concerning the County of Union is the increase in taxation. The County of Union increased their portion of the property tax almost 10% for the past three years in a row. There is no indication that it would not happen again.
This causes problems not only for the homeowners, tenants and businesses who must pay the increase but also for the municipalities and school boards that use property tax as their source of revenue. The local governments and education system are held accountable for their budgets where the County of Union is not challenged.
The solution is for the County of Union to be more responsible and follow their own advice in "tightening their belts." One solution is to eliminate the Open Space Trust Fund, which is its own line item on the tax bill. In three years time, the County has reached its goal to acquire 100 acres of open space for preservation. The property tax that funds the account is on the books for another 17 years. The County is using the remaining funds for historic preservation and recreation. These are already part of the County's general budget. The people do not need the additional tax. Another solution is to cut out problem (2).
2) The next issue of concern is wasteful spending. The last three years saw double digit tax increases, a rise in licenses and other fees and a depletion of the reserve fund. The County has been using this additional revenue on expenditures for perks, raises and benefits to reward political cronies.
The problem is that people are being short changed. Essential services are lacking sufficient funds. Human services, health and safety issues should be the priority.
The solution is to cut the fat from the budget and concentrate on the needs of the people. The fat could be cut while solving problem (3).
3) The third in this series of issues is the management practices of the County. This is the cause of all the County's problems. The Freeholder board has been controlled by one party for too long. The nine member Freeholder board is comprised of all Democrats. It has been this way for too long and, without any checks or balance system, they have lost site of their purpose. All decisions being made are motivated by the party retaining power.
The problem with one party rule is that the County is overrun with patronage and pay-back. Pay-to-play, no bid contracts and no accountability has resulted in a County government that is non productive, over charged and dangerously inept.
The solution is simple. The County must put qualified administrators in the director and supervisory positions. A procurement system must be revised to ensure that the County is getting the best service for the lowest price, and contractors must be better supervised and held responsible for their performance. As a Freeholder I can offer am alternative viewpoint to the autocratic system in place.
I will work together with the other 8 Freeholders and get the public more involved. I'm for a more open government and less political influence. Information is key to good government. I will make it my job to inform the public of what is going on n the County. Presently, this is not being done sufficiently.