Key Points

1- Lower taxes by being pragmatic, creative, and making difficult decisions without sacrificing services regarding the budget and assessments. Negotiate with the state, county, services, and vendors for better rates. Instill shared services and buying. Put a freeze on assessments until the economy strengthens.

2- Create a stronger connection and dialogue between the different communities of the township and the Twp. Committee.

3- Strategic development and changes in Twp. ordinances that address the affordable housing crisis. One example is allowing Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) in areas that have the space, as an option to create inexpensive housing and income for the owners.

4. Develop a short-term and long-term plan that promotes both economic and environmental sustainability. Be proactive and relentless in finding solutions.

5- Let our different communities and neighborhoods have more power in determining their needs.

6- It’s time for non-partisan elections. Why have one party control our choices? We are smart enough to determine who our leaders should be.

Neptune is a mixture of many

communities and neighborhoods.

Neptune Township is a vibrant mosaic of communities and neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character and priorities. From historic districts rich in architectural heritage to a growing senior population with unique needs, from local businesses striving to thrive to income-diverse areas seeking greater access to resources, Neptune represents a wide range of interests. Thoughtful planning and inclusive decision-making must recognize and address these specific needs to ensure that all residents feel heard, supported, and represented.

I’ll give an example: Ocean Grove

While traveling around Ocean Grove, where I live, getting signatures to get on the ballot in November, I’ve discussed many issues and proposals. Many were in favor, and many felt the opposite. Issues like rising property taxes, parking, and the historical integrity of the community

I did find out that a high percentage of those I’ve had meaningful conversations with were not happy with the status quo of the Township Committee. This was my first concern, and it is why I decided to run for the committee.

As I’ve mentioned before, there are many different communities in Neptune.

Ocean Grove’s concerns are different from those of Shark River Hills, for example.

Some communities are not just geographical, they are seniors, veterans, and parents who send their children to school for example.

I’m deeply concerned about the cost of living, and I’m sure you are too!

I believe that our township, state, and country are experiencing and will be experiencing an economic crisis in the present and near future.

The question is, is our township prepared for it? We are currently experiencing and will continue to experience cutbacks from the state and federal governments. It is imperative that our leaders create and implement a pragmatic plan that doesn’t cost us taxpayers to pay the bill.

What would this plan need to succeed? I can’t say I have all the answers, and I believe it will take many solutions to achieve sustainability, which will be critical very shortly. I encourage you to reach out to me with ideas and solutions to solve the problem.

Some solutions have to deal with efficiency in budgeting and structuring, as well as using shared services that would drive down costs and provide revenues for the township. The Township must engage with utility and insurance companies and government agencies to lobby for concerns about rising costs and get results in negotiating.

Survival Budgeting vs The Current Budget

Years ago, I came across this concept for budgeting where you create four budgets-

1- Current Budget (one that is proposed or in use)

2- Growth Budget ( an interim budget that is keyed to achieving the Dream Budget)

3- Dream Budget ( the ultimate balanced budget that encompasses all the wishes of the township)

4- and most importantly, the Survival Budget (the cut-to-the-bones budget to keep the township alive under the worst of possible giant obstacles), and this is where we are for the time being.

Looking at the proposed budgets (Current Budgets) of the township and the school system, I believe we need to be realistic and adopt a Survival budget. I understand this will be difficult and would cause a stir in the status quo.

These budgets are fluid in that the township can move through them and revert back to another based on the economy's ups and downs. The truth is that we are not in a good economic place on the local, state, and federal levels.

I would be interested and grateful to hear from you about solutions—everything and anything that would get our community behind them. Let me know.

I want a council that not only listens but also acts on requests and solutions brought to the table in a timely manner. This will require transparency on the progress or lack of it, so the community will be kept informed and able to work with the township government as partners.

The Three Pillars of Sustainability

I believe there are pillars of society and government that must be equally addressed.

The three pillars of sustainability are environmental, economic, and social sustainability. Together, they promote a balanced approach to development that supports human well-being while preserving the environment and the community's well-being and fostering economic growth.

Social Sustainability and the Government’s Partnership with the Community

Social sustainability creates and maintains inclusive, equitable, and resilient communities. It ensures that all individuals have access to basic needs, economic opportunities, and a high quality of life while fostering social cohesion and participation.

The government's partnership with the community is vital in achieving social sustainability. By collaborating with local organizations, businesses, and residents, the government can develop policies and programs that address housing, education, healthcare, and environmental justice. Public engagement, transparent decision-making, and community-driven initiatives strengthen this partnership, ensuring long-term social and economic well-being for all.

Economic Sustainability for the Community

Economic sustainability ensures that a community can support long-term economic growth while maintaining environmental and social well-being. It focuses on creating stable jobs, supporting local businesses, and promoting fair wages to build a resilient and thriving local economy.

A sustainable economy requires investment in education, workforce development, infrastructure, and policies encouraging innovation and responsible resource management. By fostering partnerships between the government, businesses, and residents, communities can create economic opportunities that benefit all members while preserving resources for future generations.

Environmental Sustainability for the Future

Environmental sustainability focuses on preserving natural resources and ecosystems to ensure a healthy planet for future generations. It involves reducing pollution, conserving energy and water, protecting biodiversity, and promoting sustainable development practices.

To achieve long-term environmental sustainability, governments, businesses, and communities must work together to implement policies that support renewable energy, waste reduction, and responsible land use. Education, innovation, and public engagement play key roles in fostering a culture of environmental responsibility, ensuring that future generations inherit a livable and resilient world.