Unique and Important Election

To the Editor:
On Nov. 4, the residents of Lower Township will have an opportunity to vote in one of the most unique and important elections that they have experienced in many years – unique because this election is not about personalities and important because this election is about issues. Two very important issues! Let’s address them one at a time.
1) Moving the Police Headquarters/Command Station back to Bay-shore Road, Villas – Safety is our first concern. The most vulnerable of our citizens, our children and our seniors, will be safer with a police presence nearby whether they are in school, the recreation center; or the Senior Center. The presence of police cars corning and going deters criminals and gives everyone else a feeling of security. Cost is not an issue because the township has been frugal and has nearly paid off their bonds, leaving them the opportunity to take out another bond at no tax rate increase to you, the taxpayer. In fact, fixing the old police station will cost more than building a new one. The Republican candidates oppose this move.
2) Making the MUA a Lower Township department – This is a “no brainer.” Would you like your Lower Township elected officials to save $1 million per year by turning the MUA over to Lower Township? This money is saved by no longer having to pay MUA engineers, lawyers, accountants or auditors. The work force will not lose their jobs. The Republican candidates oppose this change.
Beware of this election. The Republican party of Lower Township, funded by the Republican party of Cape May County and the State of New Jersey, will spend many more times the money than the Independent party can even dream of spending, to gain the majority on Lower Township Council. Why? Because Republican party take-over means jobs for Republicans!
Remember the county jobs handed out two years ago? And, they are still handing out high paying jobs to friends and family. You will be besieged with flyers, ads and telephone calls (remember last election?) misstating the true facts.
You can ensure these two win/win issues are implemented by voting for independents Johnnie Walker in Ward 1, Jim Neville in Ward 2; Glenn Douglas in Ward 3 on Nov. 4.
The writer is the former mayor of Lower Township and currently serves as commissioner of the LTMUA.