ROGER MARTINDELL - CAMPAIGN STATEMENT

Dear PCDO Colleagues:

           To prompt a lively dialogue at the PCDO endorsement meeting this Sunday, I want to draw your attention to a few specific issues facing Princeton Borough and Township. 

           Traditionally, many believed that Princetonians don’t cast their votes in local races based on municipal property tax issues because “residents are willing to pay for quality services”.  Whatever the truth of that belief in a strong economy, clearly that belief is not widespread in the current fiscal climate.  That’s why I am proud that in 2009 the Borough had a zero percent tax increase and is on target for accomplishing a zero percent tax increase this year too. 

           The traditional belief about taxes was predicated on a false dichotomy: that quality municipal services depend on tax increases.  But quality municipal services can be achieved by operating smarter local government.

           I am committed to smarter local government, and I ask you for the opportunity to continue that work.  Here are a few illustrative issues that will define whether our municipal government will deliver quality municipal services without increasing taxes:  

• Aggressively pursue our downtown developer to collect unpaid amounts due 
• Rigorously negotiate with public employee unions to cap salary increases and obtain greater contributions from employees toward health care benefits 
• Privatize the operation of the municipal garage to reduce unforeseen expenses 
• Develop more shared services with Princeton Township, including shared police, park maintenance, and public works facilities 
• Mount a public education/legislative campaign to obtain a larger contribution from tax-exempt non-profits, which own 50% of Borough land 
•  Develop policies to mitigate the devastating effect of revaluation on the John/Witherspoon neighborhood, and use accumulated affordable housing trust funds to that end 
• Create a park master plan so that all Borough parks are better maintained at reasonable cost
 

Such issues require thoughtful attention and a willingness not to be bound by tradition.  I offer that attention, and that willingness, as the hallmarks of my candidacy for Borough Council.

I look forward to speaking with you at Sunday’s endorsement meeting.  Thank you for your consideration

   Roger Martindell

 

ANNE WALDRON NEUMANN – CAMPAIGN STATEMENT

 

YES, WE CAN HAVE A MORE ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINBLE PRINCETON

            Through serving on the Princeton Environmental Commission (2005-9), I learned many practical ways to make Princeton a greener community.  I am convinced, moreover, that Princeton can balance environmental protection with economic prosperity and social cohesion.  If these goals sometimes conflict in the short term, sensible compromise is always possible. 

            ON BOROUGH COUNCIL I WILL support an ordinance that offers incentives to residents and developers who follow a green-building checklist.  I will encourage a pilot green-jobs training program for teens who can help protect their neighbors' homes from winter cold and summer heat.  And I will urge Council and the Planning Board to evaluate new development for its environmental and social benefits to the community as well as for its economic contribution. 

“[Environmental] Commission member Anne Neumann, demonstrating a firm grasp of political dynamics, responded . . . by advising her colleagues, 'I think we have to declare victory.'  Sage advice, indeed.”

 —Princeton Packet editorial on my support for Robert Hillier's Princeton Ridge senior housing plan, February 2009

 

YES, WE CAN HAVE A MORE PROSPEROUS AND AFFORDABLE PRINCETON

            From serving on PCDO's Local Issues Committee (2006-present), I know that the Borough is in New Jersey's 51st percentile—average—in per capita municipal spending.  Nevertheless, we're in the 94th percentile—far above average—in taxes per homeowner, largely due to Princeton University.  Almost half the Borough belongs to the University, for one thing, and most of that half is tax exempt.  The University cannot leave Borough residents and businesses to cover the shortfall between those 51st and 94th percentiles. 

            ON BOROUGH COUNCIL I WILL follow the Local Issues Committee's resolve:  increased revenue from the University must go only to relieve property taxes.  This relief is especially necessary since revaluation has shifted Borough taxes away from wealthy households toward families in mid-priced homes.  Our state's Homestead Rebate and Senior Freeze also offer tax relief, and Borough Council could help publicize and explain these options.  On Council, I will also explore the benefit to the Borough of an economic-development coordinator, beginning with a volunteer.  I will work with colleagues to consider a Special Improvement District, which could include not only downtown businesses but also Princeton University.  And I will support consolidation, believing that it must lower municipal costs. 

"Anne demonstrates a welcome depth and breadth of knowledge about local issues,

and brings a fresh, constructive approach to solutions."

—Alan Hegedus, President, Princeton Regional School Board

 

YES, WE CAN HAVE A MORE COOPERATIVE AND NEIGHBORLY PRINCETON

            After serving on Princeton Future's Community-Based Neighborhood Retail initiative (2002-2005), I became even more convinced that a sense of neighborhood and a vibrant downtown are both important to a community's sense of social cohesion.  Princeton Borough offers what most communities only dream of:  a compact layout, tree-lined streets, a diverse population in varied housing, the facilities of a fine university—these amenities must be preserved.  Princeton also offers a downtown many Borough residents can walk to, central parking for those who can't, coffee shops, ice cream, attractive public spaces, a library.  And yet a major opportunity for social cohesion is lost since few Princetonians shop downtown anymore. 

            ON BOROUGH COUNCIL I WILL encourage policies that preserve the Borough's assets and foster social cohesion.  I will introduce ordinances to balance the playing field between formula stores and the local shops that serve residents as well as tourists.  Form-based zoning can help preserve neighborhood character in Princeton's more densely-built streets.  More Borough parks need renovation shaped by their neighbors' wishes and realized with their cooperation.  I will also advocate for a teen center.  I support affordable housing.  And, to increase Princeton's sense of participatory democracy, I will urge Borough Council to publicize its achievements more proactively. 

"I have always found Anne Neumann courageous in holding to her principles and honest in defending

her positions, not to mention that she is kind, warmhearted, and truly loves the Princeton community."

—David Newton, Palmer Square Management LLC

 

NICHOLAS KARP - CAMPAIGN STATEMENT

Friends,

Princeton and the state of New Jersey are in unprecedented fiscal crisis. Average property taxes in the Borough increased 80% between 2000 and 2008. On current trends the typical homeowner will end up with a $26,000 property tax bill before Barack Obama leaves office. My home, family, and friends are here. I love this town and dearly hope we find a way to keep it livable.

Trends, unfortunately, are worsening. New Jersey had $103 billion in unfunded pensions and benefits in 2008. Health care costs are rising. The state is cutting support to municipalities to balance its own budget. Meanwhile, the feeble economy increases costs and reduces tax revenue.

In this environment, I submitted my name for endorsement based on the following qualifications:

            *Extensive experience in finance and consulting – I began my career at Booz, Allen and have since consulted in many areas of financial services. I know how to read financials, crunch numbers, and unravel problems.

            *The ability to focus more than part-time on Princeton’s issues – My time is my own and I have a lot to spare. Keeping Princeton affordable and developing long-term solutions will require considerable time and effort – I’m in a position to make that investment.

            *Recent CPA training, including governmental accounting and cost management – New Jersey’s statutory financial reporting and budgeting are not intuitive. I have the training to dissect the numbers and propose constructive solutions.

            *A strategic emphasis – Many of the challenges facing Princeton can’t be solved within our borders. Consequently I have been working to build knowledge and relationships outside, as well as inside, Borough government. I have reached out to the university, the township, and the school district. I also have an ongoing dialogue with NJ’s auditor for the past decade, one of the people who best understands the big picture in this state, productive areas for reform, and ways things get done here.

However, after considering the other candidates on the slate, at least two share my focus on fiscal prudence: Jo Butler and Roger Martindell. Either will provide similar emphasis on cost control and long term fiscal strategy. (Not to detract from Mr. Koontz, who is seeking higher office, nor Ms. Neumann, whom I know not at all.)

Grateful for at least two qualified candidates, I’ve decided to withdraw my candidacy. I’ll continue working behind the scenes to resolve the challenges facing our community.

Sincerely,

Nick Karp

 

JO BUTLER - CAMPAIGN STATEMENT

Dear Fellow PCDO Member,

I respectfully seek your endorsement for a seat on Borough Council.

New Jersey is facing a financial crisis.  If Princeton Borough is to emerge unscathed, we need new ideas and fresh leadership.  With an MBA from Northwestern and a background in finance, I believe I am the best-qualified candidate to meet the challenges we currently face. If I am elected to the Borough Council, I will help to plan and prepare for Princeton’s future in the following ways:

 ·         Fiscal Responsibility and Transparency I am the Chair and a founding member of the Finance Advocacy Taskforce, an organization of local businessmen and concerned citizens who are dedicated to making the municipal budget more accessible and transparent to the citizens.  If elected, I will work to make the budget and the budgeting process more open and available to Borough residents.  I believe there are things we can and should do to mind our own budget during these precarious, fiscally challenging times.

 ·         Improving Community Services through Updated Information Technology I would work to create an email database so simple reminders and new information can be sent to residents in a timely fashion.  Road closings, leaf pick-ups, and tax due dates are examples of the sorts of things we might do at little expense, but great service to our citizens.  As a town without a local television news station, it is critically important that the Borough website become the reliable go-to place for up-to-date information. I will work to make certain that it is.

 ·         Exploring the Benefits of Consolidation With my background in finance, I am in a unique position to understand the complex numbers involved in the effort to consolidate our municipalities. But the possible benefits of consolidation were driven home in a much more tangible way by the storm of this past weekend. We need to be planning together for emergencies and disaster preparedness. This past week, having clear roadways – whether they were in the Borough or the Township – was the most important concern for all citizens.  Whether it is a health emergency, extreme weather, or simply the quality of our provided services, there are many reasons why planning as one community makes a great deal of sense.

I am a thirteen-year resident of the Borough, and have been an active community volunteer since my arrival. I work for Wickenden Associates, an educational consulting firm, and I have served on the Executive Board of the PCDO, as well as being the chair of the Citizens Finance Advocacy Taskforce.  I served for ten years on the Friends of the Princeton Public Library, and I am on the Board of People and Stories/Guente y Cuentos.

I hope you will support me in my effort to serve the citizens of Princeton. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to contact me at jo.butler@verizon.net.

 

Sincerely,

Jo Butler

 

LIZ LEMPERT - CAMPAIGN STATEMENT

Dear Fellow Democrat,

I want to thank you for your past encouragement and endorsement, and for helping elect me to a one-year term on Township Committee this past November. I wish to continue my work on Committee and am now seeking a full 3-year term, and I ask once again for your endorsement.

My time on Township Committee has coincided with some of the worst economic conditions since the Great Depression. I am keenly aware of the pressure Princeton’s taxes put on our residents, and I’m committed to trimming the Township’s budget everywhere we can and identifying outside sources of funding for vital programs and projects.

At the same time, I’ve fought to hold the line at cutting services for those in our community that are most in need of help. As liaison to the joint Borough-Township Human Services Commission, I’ve worked to preserve the programs offered by that department including welfare (general assistance) administration, currently received by 51 residents, an all-time high.

As liaison to the Environmental Commission and the Joint Pedestrian and Bike Advisory Committee, I am passionate about Princeton's environment and protecting it for future generations. I introduced the Princeton Ridge Resolution, and will continue to facilitate the preservation of environmentally sensitive tracts of undeveloped land through private-public partnerships.

As the storms of last August and last weekend have reminded us, Princeton is vulnerable to flooding, and managing our stormwater is key to keeping us safe and protecting our property. In the coming year, I plan to work with our stormwater consultant and the Flood and Stormwater Management Committee to revise and strengthen the Township’s stormwater ordinance.

Chris Christie’s budget cuts may have stalled the creation of a Study Commission to look into consolidation and joint services, but I am committed to finding alternative sources of funding, if necessary, to get the process back on track.

If you have suggestions for how to make the Township operate more efficiently, or have questions or ideas you'd like to share, please email or call me at lizlemp@gmail.com or 609-468-3317.

Thanks for your consideration!

Liz Lempert

Township Committee

Lance Liverman - Campaign Statement

To:    PCDO Members:

From:   Lance Liverman (member of Princeton Township Committee)

It has truly been an honor and pleasure to serve on Princeton Township Committee. I have from day one understood that my job is to serve the people in the Princeton Community.  I have never waivered or forgotten the importance of having an affordable, diverse, welcoming and progressive understanding community.  I am asking that PCDO continues to support me for Township Committee.

My two terms on Township Committee have been very productive. I have been able to work with neighborhoods when installation of sidewalks and total re-construction of streets are proposed to be done. I have assisted our engineering dept. when public input about the project(s)  are discussed.  I have also been very instrumental along with the rest of Township Committee in keeping the Affordable Housing funds available.

When Princeton Township and portions of Mercer County were experiencing massive gang activities,  I was appointed by Township Committee to form a task force to see what could be done to help with the problems.  With pulling the tremendous resources we have in Princeton (Princeton Human Services, Corner House, Princeton Public Library and Corner House) we discussed how we could begin to address the gang activity problem.  This led to the creation of the Princeton Youth Project. This program is managed and run through Corner House with funding assistance from Mercer County.  The program is saving young people lives everyday.

I have said on many occasions that I am not a career politician.  I still stand behind that statement.  With so many large items on the table for the next few years I feel that I am well suited to deal with these issues.  Township Committee will be deciding on issues such as Consolidation (Borough and Township), new Community Park Pool Complex, the use of Valley Road School (Witherspoon st. portion) and the River Road expansion (Public Works) to name a few.

 

I am asking that  PCDO Members will continue to believe that one person can make a difference.  I would like to Thank you in advance for your continued support.

 

Lance Liverman

Our meeting for this evening has been cancelled due to continuing hazardous driving conditions.

Our meeting for this evening has been cancelled due to continuing hazardous driving conditions.

ELECTION NIGHT 
DEMOCRATIC CELEBRATION

 

Tuesday November 3, 8-10pm
Conte's Pizza
339 Witherspoon Street, Princeton

Join the Borough and Township Democratic candidates

Kevin Wilkes, Jenny Crumiller, Chad Goerner & Liz Lempert Monitor results and share in Democratic camaraderie!

All are welcome, no RSVP required

 

PCDO/OFA is helping Mercer Alliance to End Homelessness collect items for its one-day event, Project Homeless Connect, which is taking place on July 9th. We have offered to collect the following in all sizes: 1) gently used T-shirts 2) gently used baseball caps and hats 3) NEW packs of tube socks and underwear. If you are willing to donate any of these items please contact Margaret Griffin at msgriffin2@yahoo.com or call: 924-7512. Many thanks!

Visit the Mercer County Democratic Committee website.