Are Car Break-ins Related To Methadone Clinic?

My wife ran into a friend of ours while enjoying the evening summer beach concert at Sandy Hook last night. My wife's friend lives over in the Applebrook development near where the Middletown Methadone Clinic operates on the corner of Apple Farm Rd. and Hwy 35.

She was told by our friend that there has been a rash of car break-ins and burglaries over the past couple of weeks in the neighborhood and that friends and neighbors are extremely upset. They are wondering if any of these break-ins are related to the methadone clinic being down the road from their homes or is it just the usual suspects that roam around at night during the summer months when school is out.

My wife was told that the residents are upset that they haven't seen any public information or warnings about these break-ins in the local media. Our friend added how her neighborhood was always very quiet and a safe place to live, they never had to worry about locking the doors of their cars or the doors and window of their homes before the methadone clinic opened.

She related how she has been yelling at her husband about locking the car up at night because the garage door opener is in it. The garage is attached to the house and anyone can walk into the house through it if they have access when the garage door opens. She feels as if herself and family are living in the middle of a crime infested, inner city neighborhood of Camden or Newark instead of a beautiful, family orientated, bedroom community located in Middletown.

She doesn't know what she or her neighbors will do with themselves if the clinic remains at it's current location. She said that they feel let down by those who run the Township and can only hope that the town can eventually save her neighborhood before people decide that it's time to move out.

For our friend and others that live in the Applebrook development, I hope so too.

Crime Scene Middletown: Car Thief Caught In The Act

PREPARED BY DETECTIVE LIEUTENANT STEPHEN DOLLINGER

On June 29, 2011 at approximately 6:10 am Patrolman Felipe Benedit and Patrolman Anthony Gigante responded to the area of Antonia Court in reference to a report of a car burglary in progress. Patrol officers were advised that a home owner was currently involved in a struggle with the suspect.

Patrolman Benedit arrived on scene and engaged in a foot pursuit with the actor, identified as Matthew Drury, age 25, from Emory Drive in Lincroft, NJ, who had broken away from the home owner. Officer Benedit and Officer Gigante were able to apprehend Drury and take him into custody. Police say the home owner was awoken by his dog barking and observed Drury inside his neighbor’s car. The homeowner then confronted Drury and tried to detain him for the police.

Drury was charged with four counts of Burglary, Simple Assault, Receiving Stolen Property, Resisting Arrest, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Unlawful Possession of Prescription Medication. Drury was found in possession of Xanax and Soboxin at the time of his arrest. He was being held on $52,000.00 bail with no 10% option set by Judge Thompson. Police are investigating whether Drury may be connected to other car burglaries in the area.

** This information was supplied by the Middletown Township Police Department. It does not indicate convictions.

After Receiving $41.1M Tax Subsidy For Economic Development And Job Creation Campbell's Soup Co. Announces Layoffs

Nothing like wasting tax payer money on corporate welfare when the money could have been used for other more important things like education, health care, property tax relief, infrastructure....

Once again Governor you definitely have your priorities straight!.

Campbell's Soup Co. Announces Layoffs: MyFoxPHILLY.com

CAMDEN, N.J. - Campbell's Soup Co. plans to lay off about 770 people worldwide, Including about 130 people at its Camden headquarters, in an effort to reduce overhead and improve efficiency.

The reductions will be phased in over the next two years and will result in a savings of about $75 million dollars.

The cuts include about 10 percent of the company's workforce in Camden, its longtime headquarters.

Fox 29's Steve Keeley has more in this Wednesday morning live report from "Good Day."

Desevo Officially Resigns As Middletown Candidate; Replacement Candidate To Be Named Tomorrow Night

I received word a short while ago from Middletown Democratic Chairman Joe Caliendo, that he had officially received the resignation of Democratic candidate Alex Desevo and forwarded it on to the Monmouth County Clerk's office.

Caliendo said that a replacement candidate will be chosen tomorrow night to succeed Desevo on the November ballot, when names will be presented to the members of the full body of Middletown Democratic Executive Committee.

When I asked Chairman Caliendo the names of those who were interested in joining Jim Grenafege on the Democratic ticket this year, I was told with the understanding I was not to say anything until after the full Executive Committee had a chance to meeting give it's approval.

After hearing the names of those interested I can say this, there are names that are familiar and new to Committee members. It should make for an interesting meeting, I'll let everyone know afterwards.

Checkout the Asbury Park Press for some other details, I just noticed that they beat me to posting ( damn, I hate that I get home from work so late)

After A Rash Of Criminal Mischief At Middletown Parks Police Are Asking Residents For Information

I have received the following request from Middletown Deputy Police Chief Craig Weber, asking residents for information regarding a rash of vandalism at neighborhood parks around town. Any information that can be provided would be greatly appreciated:

Middletown Police report that a number of Parks and Recreation facilities have been damaged and vandalized during the past week. Among the damaged facilities were two baseball fields at Middletown Thompson Park including the Challenger Youth baseball field, which is intended for the use of athletes with special needs. Middletown Thompson Park is located on Newman Springs Road in Lincroft. Newly-sodded soccer fields at the Fairview Soccer Fields on Oak Hill Rd. were extensively damaged by unknown persons joy riding on the fields. Baseball and softball fields at Normandy Park on Nut Swamp Rd., and Applebrook Park on Iler Drive, were also damaged by unknown vehicles being driven on the fields. In addition, a portable outdoor bathroom located at Lincroft Acres Park on Orchard Hill Drive, Lincroft was damaged after it was intentionally struck by a vehicle and knocked over. A park bench, concrete steps and hand railing in Tindall Park, Tindall Road have also been destroyed.

Parks in Middletown are generally closed to the public at dusk, unless permission is obtained from the Parks and Recreation Dept. or the facility is lighted and specifically designated for after hour use. Police are asking citizens to call and report any suspicious activities or incidents of people misusing or damaging Township Parks and Recreation facilities or property. The Middletown Policemen’s Benevolent Association is offering a reward of $ 500 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for damaging the Parks. Call 732-615-2100.


Deputy Chief R. Craig Weber
Technical Services Division
Middletown Township Police Dept
1 Kings Highway
Middletown, NJ 07748
office 732-615-2054
fax 732-615-2051
email cweber@middletownnj.org

(Tindal Park Steps)

(Thompson Park)

(Normandy Park)

Crime Scene Middletown: Drugs And Alcohol Dominate Latest Middletown Police Report

PREPARED BY DETECTIVE LIEUTENANT STEPHEN DOLLINGER

On June 20, 2011 at approximately 11:50 am Patrolman Thomas Meckier was on patrol in the area of Main Street in Port Monmouth when he observed a vehicle driving on Main Street that fit the description of a suspicious vehicle that was seen in the area earlier in the day. Officer Meckier attempted to stop the vehicle in the area of Main Street when the driver, identified as Richard Stavola, age 23, from Kings Highway East fled from the vehicle and ran into a house on Main Street.

Officer Meckier was able to apprehend Stavola at the residence. He was charged with Criminal Trespass after the resident advised police that Stavola was not authorized to be in the house. He was also charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia after police located glassine baggies used to package narcotics that belonged to Stavola. He was processed and held on $5,000.00 bail set by Judge Richard Thompson.

On June 24, 2011 Patrolman Anthony Dellatacoma and Patrolman Brian Dilworth arrested William Connett, age 32, from Main Street in Port Monmouth, NJ, for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia as a result of an investigation at his residence. The officers located numerous pipes used to smoke Crack Cocaine in Connett’s house.

He was transported to police headquarters where he was processed and released pending a court date.

On June 21, 2011 at approximately 3:10 pm Sgt. James Prosinski was assigned to a special duty detail at the Gateway Bakery when a subject, identified as Edward Shaw , age 72, from Bergen Street in Brooklyn, NY, was asked to leave the property after having a dispute with the owner.

Sgt. Prosinski advised Shaw to leave the property and he refused at which point he was arrested for Defiant Trespass. Shaw was transported to police headquarters for processing and was released pending a court date.

On June 21, 2011 at approximately 11:50 am Patrolman Raymond Sofield responded to a residence on Henry Place in reference to a possible overdose. Upon arrival the officer located the victim, identified as Heather Lenhart, age 35, from Henry Place in Middletown.

Patrolman Sofield conducted an investigation which resulted in the discovery of a hypodermic syringe and two baggies containing Heroin. Lenhart was charged with Possession of Heroin and Possession of a Hypodermic Syringe. She was released on her own recognizance pending a court date.

On June 22, 2011 at approximately 12:30 am Patrolman Robert McNair conducted a motor vehicle stop on Thompson Avenue. The driver, identified as Dawn Haviland, age 39, from Twilight Avenue in Keansburg, NJ, was arrested on Contempt of Court warrants.

Haviland was transported to police headquarters for processing. Officer McNair conducted a search incident to the arrest which resulted in the recovery of three white pills identified as Methadone. Haviland was then charged with the additional offense of Unlawful Possession of Methadone without a valid prescription and was held pending bail.

On June 22, 2011 at approximately 11:15 am Corporal James Keenan responded to a residence on Southend Avenue in reference to a fight. Upon arrival the officer was advised by the victim that Autumn Heltzman, age 29, from Holly Street in Keansburg, NJ, had come to the residence and assaulted the victim by grabbing her by the arm and throwing her to the ground.

Corporal Keenan conducted an investigation which resulted in Heltzman being arrested for Simple Assault. She was transported to police headquarters where she was processed and released pending a court date.

On June 22, 2011 Detective Kimberly Best arrested Christopher Malamut, age 18, from King Fisher Drive in Middletown as a result of an investigation conducted by Detective Best into a burglary and theft from a residence located on East Roosevelt Circle that occurred on June 8, 2011 during which a laptop computer was stolen.

Malamut was charged with Receiving Stolen Property after Detective Best determined that he had purchased the laptop, knowing it was stolen, from the subjects who broke into the house and stole it. He was processed and released pending a court date.

On June 24, 2011 Patrolman Anthony Dellatacoma , Patrolman Brian Dilworth and Detective Laurence Schachtel arrested Jay Hansen, age 25, from Walling Avenue in Belford and Jonathan Steele, age 23, also from Walling Avenue as a result of an investigation conducted by Detective Schachtel. Hansen and Steele stole jewelry from his Hansen’s mother and sold it to local jewelry stores.

Steele was charged with Theft and Receiving Stolen Property and Hansen was charged with Theft and Unlawful Possession of Prescription Medications and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. The drugs were located on Hansen at the time of his arrest. Both subjects were released pending a court date.

On June 24, 2011 at approximately 7:20 pm Sgt. John Werner was on patrol in the area of Church Street near the train station when he observed a suspicious person walking near the train tracks. Sgt. Werner approached the subject, identified as Michael Stillitano, age 19, from Hawthorne Road in Red Bank, NJ, and conducted an investigation which resulted in Stillitano being arrested for Possession of Alcohol Underage after the officer located a Gatorade bottle filled with Rum and Coke.

He was transported to police headquarters where he was processed and released pending a court date.

On June 25, 2011 at approximately 1:45 am Patrolman Savino Capilupi and Sgt. William Straniero responded to the area of Wilson Avenue for a 16 year old female who was intoxicated and left home without her parent’s approval. The officers located the female who began to yell and scream at the officers and then started punching Sgt. Straniero.

The officers were able to take the juvenile into custody at which point she was arrested for Aggravated Assault on a Police Officer, Disorderly Conduct, Resisting Arrest, and Criminal Trespass. She was processed and released to her mother pending a court date.

On June 25, 2011 at approximately 7:45 pm Patrolman Brady Carr responded to a report of a one car accident at the intersection of Shady Oaks Drive and West Front Street. Upon arrival the officer located the driver, identified as Donald Sharp, age 53, from Quince Court in Red Bank, NJ, standing by his vehicle. Officer Carr detected a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from his person.

Officer Carr conducted an investigation which resulted in Sharp being arrested for Driving While Intoxicated and Reckless Driving. He was transported to police headquarters where he was processed and released pending a court date.

On June 26, 2011 at approximately 2:05 am Patrolman Nicholas Fenezia was on patrol in the area of the Leonardo Marina when he observed a group of subjects sitting in the parking lot and a can of beer near the group. The officer approached the group and conducted an investigation during which he located a backpack containing Marijuana and a Pipe used to smoke Marijuana.

Patrolman Fenezia continued his investigation which resulted in a 15 year old male juvenile being arrested for Possession of Under 50 grams of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession with the Intent to Distribute under one ounce of Marijuana. He was transported to police headquarters where he was processed and released to a guardian pending a court date.

On June 26, 2011 at approximately 4:55 am Police Officer Janine Kennedy responded to a report of an accident on Highway 36 near Church Street. Upon arrival Officer Kennedy conducted an investigation which resulted in the driver of one of the vehicles, identified as Paul Boschi, age 52, from Swartzel Drive in Middletown, being arrested for Driving While Intoxicated and Reckless Driving.

Boschi was transported to police headquarters where he was processed and released pending a court date.

On June 26, 2011 at approximately 12:55 pm Patrolman Michael Pintilie and Corporal Douglas Wiatrak responded to the parking lot area of Ideal Beach in reference to a report of two subjects fighting. Upon arrival the officers conducted an investigation which resulted in the subjects, identified Rudolph Jones, age 55, from Monmouth Parkway in Middletown, and Paul Ortiz, age 48, from Ocean Avenue in Middletown being arrested for Disorderly Conduct.

Both subjects were transported to police headquarters where they were processed and released pending a court date.

The Middletown Police report the arrests of the following subjects for other offenses:

Matthew Lennox, age 21, from Walker Terrace in Middletown, NJ, arrested on June 21, 2011 by Patrolman Christian Clark on a warrant for Aggravated Assault with a motor vehicle. He was released pending a court date.

Chanta Timoniere, age 41, from Harvard Street in Red Bank, NJ, arrested on June 21, 2011 by Patrolman Ian May for Simple Assault. She was released pending a court date.

On June 21, 2011 Patrolman Ian May arrested a 17 year old juvenile from Middletown for Aggravated Assault and Possession of a Weapon for an Unlawful Purpose. He was released to his mother pending a court date.

Lynel Lepkoski, age 46, from Gillville Lane in Middletown, NJ, arrested on June 22, 2011 by Patrolman Brian Dilworth and Patrolman Anthony Dellatacoma on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Hazlet Township Municipal Court. She was released after posting $1,150.00 bail.

Charles Kirkpatrick, age 43, from Washington Avenue in Keyport, NJ, arrested on June 23, 2011 by Patrolman Keith Hirschbein on a Contempt of Court warrant. He was released after posting bail.

Lindsey Starrace, age 22, from Dalby Place in Middletown, NJ, arrested on June 23, 2011 by Patrolman John Soltysik on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Red Bank Municipal Court. She was released after posting $121.00 bail.

Stephen Acquaiva, age 34, from Bonnie Drive in Middletown, NJ, arrested on June 24, 2011 by Corporal Ralph Flannigan on a Contempt of Court warrant. He was released after posting bail.

Steven Barbiero, age 30, from Raleigh Court in Ocean, NJ, arrested on June 25, 2011 by Patrolman Felipe Benedit for Simple assault. He was released on bail.

Daniel Meehan, age 20, from Lohsen Place in Port Monmouth, NJ, arrested on June 26, 2011 by Patrolman Raymond Sofield on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. He was released after posting $550.00 bail.

Karissa Kundert, age 19, from Harbor Way in Middletown, NJ, arrested on June 26, 2011 by Patrolman Raymond Sofield on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Keansburg Municipal Court. She was held on $938.00 bail.

Stephan Thompson, age 26, from Bloomfield Avenue in Bloomfield, NJ, arrested on June 26, 2011 by Patrolman Frank Mazza on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Clifton Municipal Court. He was held on bail.

** This information was supplied by the Middletown Township Police Department. It does not indicate convictions.

AS A Matter Of Fact...Democrats make a statement with budget plan of their own

June 27th, 2011 | Published in NJPP Blog: As a Matter of Fact …

Democrats have done an unexpected thing. With just days to go before a budget must be enacted, they have introduced their own budget – a “this is what we stand for” budget – with a companion millionaires’ tax to restore at least some of the Christie administration’s proposed program cuts.

That they did this shouldn’t be a surprise.

It’s common practice for the party that controls the Legislature to draft and sponsor the state budget. The Democrats control both houses just as they did last year.

But last year the majority party ceded budget power to the Republican minority, who produced a bill that closely resembled Governor Christie’s March 2010 proposal. Many expected the same to happen this year, so it’s somewhat surprising Democratic leaders have proposed a spending plan of their own.

Here’s what is being proposed [The actual list of changes has not been posted publicly although the press has been briefed and Senate President Sweeney’s office confirmed details]:

MORE REVENUE

$913 million from higher than expected revenue estimates: In March 2011, Governor Christie’s proposed budget planned to spend $29.4 billion in FY 2012. In May, when revenue projections were updated, the Office of Legislative Services (OLS) estimated that collections for the current year and next would be $913 million more than the Governor’s original March estimate. The estimate assumed the current tax structure would remain the same.

$550 million from the reintroduction of the millionaires’ tax: Last year, the legislature passed a millionaires’ tax bill that increased taxes on taxpayers with incomes over $1 million. Governor Christie vetoed the bill. The legislature could not override the veto. In this year’s bill, the additional tax revenue would be tied to additional aid for wealthier suburban schools. Part of the logic is that Republican legislators might be willing to vote for a bill to raise income tax rates on their wealthier constituents if that additional revenue stays in the wealthier school districts.

$300 million in funding shifts from programs that have unused balances: Not all programs spend their entire appropriation every year. Unspent funds either lapse and become unavailable to the program or they rollover and become part of the same program’s spending in the following year. This year the legislature has determined that $300 million is available to be cut from programs that have been over-funded in the past and added to programs that need additional support.

AMONG THE DEMOCRATS’ PRIORITIES

School Aid: The democrats’ bill would add at least $1.1 billion to school spending. Senator Sweeney said this includes the Supreme Court-mandated $500 million for the state’s poorest, urban districts and $600 million for defunded suburban school districts. Something to keep in mind is that the original Millionaires tax enacted in 2004 was tied to property tax relief for senior citizens. That connection made the bill palatable to some Republican legislators who represented senior citizens who would benefit from the property tax relief but would not be subject to the higher tax rates.

Property Tax Relief: It is said the bill would double Homestead Property Tax Rebates – not triple them as Christie said he would do.

Money not spent on the Homestead Property Tax Rebates would be used to unfreeze the Senior Freeze program, allowing new seniors to participate and raising the amount rebated. This program freezes property taxes for people over 65 who earn less than $80,000. In the current fiscal year, only seniors already in the program were eligible for the rebate and the amount was limited to the amount received in the prior year.

It is said an additional $50 million would be made available to communities with understaffed fire and police departments – aiding Newark, Camden and other communities with high crime rates.

Health Care: It is said the bill would restore $7.5 million in ideological cuts to women’s health clinics and $300 million for NJ FamilyCare and Medicaid to allow working parents to continue to obtain affordable health care coverage.

WILL THIS WORK?

By law, New Jersey must pass a budget by the end of the day on Thursday, June 30th. Passing a budget on time is a deadline the state has always taken seriously.

It is impossible to know now how the negotiations are going – if the Democrats will be successful in their attempt to share the sacrifice among all income groups and help the poor and middle class in this state. The governor vetoed a millionaires’ tax last year and has said he will veto it again. It seems unlikely Republicans would join Democrats to over-ride the governor’s veto, especially in an election year, although redistricting has left some Republicans in more Democratic districts.

In battles of the budget, the New Jersey governor holds most of the cards. He alone has the power to determine revenues and set the limit on funds available for programs. If Governor Christie doesn’t agree the state will collect an additional $800 million next year or if he vetoes the Millionaires’ tax and the legislature can’t over ride the veto, that’s money the legislature can’t spend. In addition, New Jersey’s governor has line-item veto power. Any program he doesn’t want funded can be reduced or eliminated. If this happens, the legislature’s only recourse is to override that veto if two-thirds of the legislators support the override.

The only successful override of a governor’s veto was in 1992. Governor Florio vetoed the entire budget passed by the then Republican-controlled legislature. The Republican budget had cut $1.1 billion from Governor Florio’s proposed $15.7 billion budget. At the time, the Republicans had a 27-to-13 majority in the Senate and a 58-to-22 majority in the Assembly. The override passed both houses with no votes to spare. (It was opposed by all Democrats and, in the Assembly, two Republicans.

Democrats now have a 24-to-16 majority in the Senate and a 47-to-33 majority in the Assembly, making veto overrides more difficult. So far none have been successful. Perhaps it will be this budget – this statement of what New Jersey ought to stand for – that will be the first success.

Captain Joseph Azzolina Memorial Bridge in Highlands/Sea Bright Awaiting Governor's Signature

Almost forgotten over all the commotion surrounding Thursday night's pension and health care reform debate down in Trenton, was the fact that pension and health care were not the only business being debated and adopted that day.

Also approved by the Assembly Thursday night was legislation sponsored by Senator Sean T. Kean and Assemblywoman Mary Pat Angelini that designated the bridge which spans the Shrewsbury River, as the “Captain Joseph Azzolina Memorial Bridge”.

All that is left to making the naming of the bridge in honor of Joseph Azzolina is the signature of Governor Christie, which is expected to soon.

APP: Middletown candidate to drop out of race after drug arrest, party leader says

Just as I said Friday night, but now it is made official by Democratic Chairman Joe Caliendo, Alex Desevo is off the Democratic tickets a candidate in Middletown and a replacement will be soon be named.

Posted on the Asbury Park Press website just a bout 40 minutes ago:

MIDDLETOWN — A Democratic candidate for Township Committee who was arrested on June 18 on charges of possessing crack cocaine has agreed to resign from the race, a party official said.

Leaders of the Middletown Democratic Party planned to Monday, June 27, to find a replacement for Alexander DeSevo, 43, said Joseph Caliendo, who heads the party.

“Middletown voters aren’t going to want that kind of person,” Caliendo said. “I don’t know what happened with the young man. It’s between him and his conscience.”

DeSevo, a criminal defense attorney, was caught possessing crack cocaine and various drug paraphernalia at the Holmdel Motor Inn on Route 35, where he was staying with two women, police said.

Police became involved after one of the women showed up at the Holiday Inn in Hazlet, more than a half mile away, and said DeSevo had chased her from the Holmdel Motor Inn, according to authorities.

The party has until September to find a replacement for DeSevo, whose name will not appear on the November ballot, Caliendo said.

“This should not be an issue in the race,” Caliendo said. “We believe we have a good chance of winning this November, so we want to find a candidate who can really represent Middletown well.”

N.J. Republicans look to restore $7.5 million for women's health care; Action comes after they opposed two Democratic bills to do the same

Now that it's coming down to crunch-time with the state budget and the entire state assembly is up for re-election this year, 13 republicans have decided to join the Democratic bandwagon and support women's heath issues by looking to restore $7.5 million to the budget that Governor Christie decided wasn't necessary.

These Republicans, lead by Assemblyman Domenick DiCicco (R-Camden), have opposed this measure for the better part of 18 months and are only now joining forces with the Democrats because polling has shown that Governor Christie’s job rating has plummeted among women and they are now vulnerable on the issue.

It's a classic example of flip-flopping on an issue in order to secure votes in an election year, on an issue that is extremely important to many of their constituents. But I wonder how hard they will actually fight for women's health funding once the Governor comes down on them?

The following article written by Tom Hester Sr., appeared over on NewJerseyNewsroom.com:

Much to the surprise of Democratic women legislators who have tried for over a year to get Gov. Chris Chirstie to the restore $7.5 million he cut out of the 2010-11 state budget for women’s health care, 13 Republican Assembly members on Friday announced they are sponsoring a resolution to restore the aid to the shaping 2011-12 budget.

Assemblywomen Linda Stender (D-Union) and Valerie Vainieri Huttle (D-Bergen) responded to the announcement by describing the unexpected Republican action as an 11th hour political ploy designed to pander to the women they have abandoned for the last 18 months.”

As recent as May 19, Christie disapproved of restoring the $7.5 million. In the past year, he vetoed Democratic bills to restore the aid. Republican legislators have supported the governor’s position.

The Republican resolution stresses that no money could be used for so-called family planning. Democratic women legislators insist the money would not go toward funding abortions.

The resolution was announced at the end of a week that featured the release of a Quinnipiac University poll that showed Republican Christie’s job rating has plummeted among women. All 120 seats in the Legislature are up for re-election in November.

Assemblyman Domenick DiCicco (R-Camden), the prime sponsor of the new resolution, said, “Everyone wants to provide healthcare for our neediest women and their children and this resolution will make that possible responsibly and compassionately. This funding is an effective use of our resources to make sure that every dollar we spend is used to treat disease or to keep women and children healthy.”

The resolution would allocate the $6.2 million to federal qualified health centers and $1.3 million for New Jersey Cancer Education and Early Detection.

No money would be allotted to Planned Parenthood and the resolution would change budget language from “family planning services” to “women and family health services.”

“This is an effective way to actually funding women’s health services without getting lost in political debate,” DiCicco said. “Anyone who is truly concerned about the well-being of New Jersey’s most vulnerable women and children can support this approach.”

When Sen. Loretta Weinberg (D-Bergen) introduced legislation to restore the $7.5 million on May 19. Michael Drewniak, Christie's press secretary, said of the Democrats' action, "It’s predictable that the majority party in the Legislature, led by Senator Sweeney, can’t resist the urge to open the public’s wallet as soon as a few extra dollars become available. We cannot throw out the sensible budgeting practices we’ve put in place just because of a modest increase in tax revenue."

Continue reading Here

AS a Matter Of Fact...Busting the myth: The real numbers show N.J. is not the most overtaxed state in the nation

By Mary E. Forsberg and Deborah Howlett
June 26th, 2011

Perhaps you’ve heard a politician or two, in an accusatory tone, declare New Jersey has the highest taxes in the nation. It’s become a rallying cry for the current administration. It is repeated as an indisputable fact by the media. But mostly it just sounds right to people, perhaps because it so neatly fits the cynical narrative of government waste, fraud and abuse.
The thing is, it’s not true.

Consider this from a recent press release by the Connecticut House Republican Party:
“Connecticut residents already pay the highest taxes in America.”

Or this from the Buffalo News editorial page: “New York is the most overtaxed state in the nation.”

Nope. According to the Orange County chapter of the Lambda Alpha economics society, “California is the most overtaxed state in the nation,”

And from a conservative pundit in Chicago: “I live in Illinois … the most overtaxed state in the union.”

But wait. There’s another. The vice chair of the Maine Republican Party has said, “Maine is currently the most overtaxed state in America.”

They can’t all be right.

For the record, New Jersey ranks eighth among all states when state and local tax revenues are compared as a percentage of taxpayer’s personal income, according to an analysis using data from the U.S. Census and the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis. It’s the cleanest comparison of the tax “burden” in all 50 states. New Jersey’s ranking drops considerably once you get past property taxes and look only at state tax collections.

Simply comparing total revenue collected from taxes in each state would produce a wholly inaccurate comparison because poorer, less-populated states would always appear to tax less. Measuring as a percentage of personal income, or on a per capita basis, provides necessary
context and a more accurate comparison among states.

Consider the big three state revenue sources in New Jersey — income, corporate and sales taxes — and then size up property taxes.

Income tax

On a per capita basis, New Jersey ranks seventh among states for income tax revenues, according to U.S. Census data. As a percentage of personal income, New Jersey ranks 19th among states.

It’s important to understand New Jersey is consistently at the top of lists that rank states in terms of median income and millionaires (those with at least $1 million in investable or liquid assets) as a percentage of households.

With all that wealth, the state also has a progressive income tax that collects significant amounts of its revenue from the wealthiest in the state and virtually none from the poorest, such as married couples whose incomes are less than $20,000 ($10,000 for a single person).
The progressive aspect of New Jersey’s income tax has evolved since the state’s first 2 percent flat tax was enacted in 1976. Public opinion polls show a vast majority approve of raising rates levied on income that exceeds $1 million a year.

Other states also have local income taxes. Philadelphia, for example, levies a 3.928 percent wage tax on residents and a 3.4985 percent wage tax on nonresidents on top of the state’s 3.07 percent flat income tax. Cities in New Jersey are barred from imposing income taxes on workers.

Corporate Tax

Corporate taxes in New Jersey rank ninth as a percentage of personal income and sixth when measured per capita.

New Jersey took in a little more than $2 billion in fiscal year 2010 from corporations, or 7.5 percent of all revenue collected by the state. However, 93 percent of the 252,000 corporations subject to New Jersey’s corporate business tax paid the state less than $2,000 each. Corporate revenues for the year surpassed $24.6 billion.

Sales Tax

Comparing revenue from the sales tax puts New Jersey 19th on a per capita basis and 36th when measured as a percent of personal income.

The state sales tax is often cited as one of the highest in the nation because of its 7 percent rate. However, it is applied more narrowly than sales taxes are in many other states.

Food, clothing and gas are exempt, for example. Depending how one looks at it, that is a loss to the state or a savings to taxpayers of about $2.6 billion.

Nor does New Jersey allow cities or counties to collect local sales taxes, which many other states allow.

Montgomery, Ala., levies a 10 percent sales tax (4 percent state; 6 percent local) on everything sold, including food.

In Georgia, a 12 percent combined state and local sales tax is the norm in some areas of the state.

Property Taxes

What’s abundantly clear, however you slice the data, is that New Jersey ranks among the top one or two states in the nation when it comes to property taxes, which are the only real source of revenue for local government in the Garden State. Last year, property taxes produced $25 billion in revenues, exceeding revenue from the state’s three major taxes.
* * *
In total, as a percentage of personal income, taxes in New Jersey rank about eighth among all the states. Considering it ranks near the top for median income and wealth, that designation hardly seems out of line.

But those are not the numbers pushed by anti-tax zealots. Groups such as the conservative Tax Foundation have cited New Jersey as having the highest tax burden in the nation, using a convoluted formula that doesn’t quite parse the intricacies of local tax laws.

For example, the Tax Foundation charges back to New Jersey the $2.6 billion in income taxes paid to New York by New Jersey residents who work in New York and must abide by New York tax laws, over which New Jersey has no control.

By the way, that $2.6 billion is not just a blip in the data. It is more than New Jersey collects from its corporation business tax, the state’s third-largest revenue source, and it is one of the largest income transfers from one state to another in the country.

All of this just points to the need to be careful when citing state rankings.
Some, such as the Tax Foundation’s, only obscure real facts because they allow politicians to cherry-pick data and use them to justify their political philosophy.

So the next time you hear someone say New Jersey is the most overtaxed state in the nation, look past the rhetoric and consider the real numbers behind the statement.

Check out the tax data tables here.

Saturday Morning Cartoons: Cartoon All Stars To The Rescue - "Say No To Drugs"

This saturday morning cartoon from 1990 brought together all the most popular cartoon characters of the time, to tell the story of a young man who was hooked on drugs.

After discovering a stash of drugs in Michael's room, the various cartoon characters proceed to work together and take him on a fantasy journey to teach him the risks and consequences a life of drug-use can bring and save the world.

With recent headlines about methadone clinics and candidates, this seems like an appropriate cartoon to watch and learn from even though it's a little dated.

George Norcross tales dubbed "bogeyman" bunk are rooted in reality

Good video for your watching from the Star Ledger's Brian Donohue, it leaves you scratching your head afterwards:

Ledger Live for June 25, 2011 -

Ledger Live with Brian Donohue. On todayapos;s show, Brian Donohue examines how the battle over the pension and benefits reform bill passed by the New Jersey legislature raised questions about the influence of South Jersey Democratic leader George Norcross. Assertions by Norcross ally Sen. Steve Sweeney that Norcross plays little role in the legislative process contrast sharply with Norcrossapos; own words, as captured in 2001 recordings made as part of a state attorney generalapos;s office investigation.

President Obama's Weekly Address 6/25/11: Strengthening America by Investing at Home

WASHINGTON – Speaking to the American people from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, President Obama discussed the vital role advanced manufacturing will have in strengthening our economy and creating good, middle-class jobs. The President believes that realizing our nation’s potential requires more than simply cutting spending; we have to foster development at home, so that the United States will continue to grow and attract the world’s best talent, ideas and job-creating technologies. This week, the President announced the Advanced Manufacturing Partnership, which will link the federal government with our nation’s finest minds to insure that our best ideas quickly become our best technologies. By providing American innovators with the resources they need to make their ideas a reality, our nation’s strong legacy of manufacturing, development and middle-class opportunity will continue to grow.

Middletown Democratic Candidate Busted for Possession; Desevo To Be Replaced Soon

Shocking is all I have to say about the news that broke earlier today concerning Middletown Democratic Candidate for Township Committee, Alex Desevo, who was busted last weekend at the Holmdel Motor Lodge for the possession of crack cocaine and drug paraphernalia.

I was sitting in the Hazlet movie theater when I received an email with a link to an Asbury Park Press online article about how Desevo was arrested by Holmdel police at 4:54 in the morning on Saturday, June 18, after one of two women he was spending the night with ran out of the room and found her way to the Hazlet Holiday Inn and called police about something that happened while at the Holmdel Motor Lodge. I was in disbelief at the news and started texting and sending emails of my own to a few people in order to get the bottom of it.

What I found out was both sad and tragic, and because I know Alex Desevo personally, and know that despite this incident, he is a very honest and straight forward guy that would do anything for anyone, I wont air his dirty laundry here other than to say that he was having difficulties at home and that was the main reason why he was staying at the motor lodge.

In the face of this situation I want to commend him for not hiding or shirking away from this embarrassing and life altering situation, it's a testament to his personal fortitude and character in realizing that what he had done was a mistake that he wants to meet head-on and make amends for.

In an article posted on Middletown Patch about Desevo's troubles, Patch columnist and Editor Elaine Van Develde, was able to track him down for a comment.

Alex confirmed for Van Develde that he was indeed, the same Alex Desevo that was arrested on June 18th and opted not to comment other than to say,"I prefer not to comment at this time on a personal tragedy, I have been a good person all my life." while noting that he wished to protect his family at this time.

Whatever Alex's demons are at this time, I can only wish him well and hope that he gets the treatment that he so obviously needs to overcome this sad and tragic personal time in his life.

This is not a time to criticize or ridicule him for letting down those that believed in him as a candidate for office, it's a time to support him and understand that he is human, like the rest of us, and as such, can succumb to temptations in moments of personal weakness.

The Middletown Democrats will survive and have another candidate to fill Desevo's place on the ballot very soon I was told by Chairman Joe Caliendo.

Middletown residents have too many other important issues affecting their quality of life for them to care about or fret about, the personal troubles of a candidate that will not be on the ballot come November.

Be well Alex

Sign Of The Times... Opiate Addiction Ruining Your Life?

(Photo by MiddletownMike)

While driving home from work this afternoon, I noticed for the first time the billboard above.

The billboard is locate on Hwy 35 south in Sayreville, just before going over the Cheesequake drawbridge.

I drive home this way each and everyday and until today I have not seen it before, which leads me to believe that this sign recently went up, more than likely over the past few days.

So if there are any questions about where potential clients of the Middletown Methadone clinic may be coming from, it is a very good assumption that many could be coming from the Middlesex County area and beyond, not just from the immediate surrounds.

( If anyone has noticed this sign before this afternoon let me know, I am curious about how much of a daze I must be in while coming home from work each day, not to have noticed it sooner )

Crime Scene Middletown: Shoplifting, Burglaries, and Thefts Head Up Recent Activities Of Middletown Police

PREPARED BY DETECTIVE LIEUTENANT STEPHEN DOLLINGER

On June 14, 2011 at approximately 6:00 pm Patrolman Adam Vandetti responded to the Shoprite Store in reference to a report of a shoplifter. Upon arrival the officer was advised by store security that they had observed Kathleen Anderson, age 47, from Greengrove Avenue in Keyport, NJ, load up her cart with over $550.00 in merchandise and then leave the store.

Anderson was taken into custody and was transported to police headquarters where she was charged with Shoplifting. She was processed and released pending a court date.

On June 14, 2011 at approximately 12:15 am Patrolman James Beirne responded to the area of Middletown Lincroft Road in reference to a report of a car burglary that just occurred. Upon arrival the victim provided officers with a description of the actor who was located a short time later on Kings Highway East.

Officer Beirne conducted an investigation and arrested Peter Christensen, age 18, from Florence Avenue in Leonardo, NJ. Detective Kelly Godley conducted a follow up investigation which resulted in Christensen being charged with Burglary and Theft. He was processed and held on bail.

On June 15, 2011 Detective William Strohkirch arrested Brendan Frank, age 18, from Fleetwood Drive in Hazlet, NJ, for Burglary, Theft and Theft of a Means of Conveyance as a result of an investigation into a burglary that occurred at a residence on Club Way.

Detective Strohkirch determined that Frank had entered the residence while the victim was away on vacation and stole jewelry and electronics valued at over $16,000. Frank also used the victim’s car to transport the stolen items to local jewelry stores where he attempted to sell the items.

Frank was held on $10,000 bail set by Judge Richard Thompson.

On June 16, 2011 Detective Kimberly Best arrested two male juveniles who were charged with Burglary and Theft as a result of an investigation into a burglary that occurred at a residence on East Roosevelt Circle on June 8, 2011.

Detective Best determined that the juveniles entered the residence and stole a camera and laptop computer. Both juveniles were processed and released to their parents pending a court date.

On June 16, 2011 at approximately 9:30 pm Patrolman John Mele was on patrol in the area of Hubbard Avenue when he observed a vehicle travelling at a high rate of speed. Officer Mele stopped the vehicle and approached the driver, identified as Faustino Fernanadez Cantero, age 24, from Wilson Circle in Red Bank, NJ at which point he detected a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from inside the car.

Officer Mele conducted an investigation which resulted in Fernanadez Cantero being charged with Driving While Intoxicated, Reckless Driving and Speeding. He was processed and released pending a court date.

On June 16, 2011 at approximately 8:14 pm Patrolman Brian Dilworth and Patrolman Anthony Dellatacoma were on patrol in the area of Wilson Avenue when they observed a vehicle being operated with a broken taillight. The officers stopped the vehicle and conducted an investigation which resulted in the rear seat passenger, a 17 year old male juvenile, being arrested for Possession of under 50 grams of Marijuana.

The juvenile was transported to police headquarters where he was processed and released to his parents pending a court date.

On June 17, 2011 Detective Daniel Sullivan arrested William Knabe, age 33, from Beacon Boulevard in Keansburg, NJ, and Carrie Chapman, age 31, from Avenue C in Hazlet, NJ. Knabe was charged with Burglary, Theft and Conspiracy and Chapman was charged with Conspiracy as a result of an investigation into a car burglary that occurred on Palmer Avenue in Middletown on June 13, 2011.

Detective Sullivan determined that Knabe had committed the burglary and stole numerous items from the vehicle to include the victim’s credit card. Knabe and Chapman then used the stolen credit card at the Shell Gas Station in Keansburg. Knabe and Chapman were also charged with using the stolen credit card by Detective Jason Lopez of the Keansburg Police Department.

Knabe was held on $5,000 bail and Chapman was released pending a court date.

On June 17, 2011 at approximately 7:50 pm Patrolman Stephen Keller responded to an accident on Wilson Avenue. Upon arrival the officer conducted an investigation which resulted in one of the drivers, identified as William Daley, age 53, being arrested for Driving While Intoxicated.

Daley was transported to police headquarters where he was charged with the additional offenses of Reckless Driving and Failure to Maintain Lanes. He was processed and released pending a court date.

On June 17, 2011 at approximately 5:45 pm Patrolman Anthony Dellatacoma and Patrolman Brian Dilworth were on patrol in the area of Wilson Avenue when they observed a suspicious person walking in the area. The officers spoke with the subject, identified as Wayne Carhart, age 32, from Main Street in Port Monmouth, NJ, and determined that there was an outstanding Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court for his arrest.

The officers placed Carhart under arrest on the warrant and conducted a search incident to the arrest at which point they located a small plastic baggie which contained a rock like substance believed to be Crack Cocaine and a pipe used to smoke Crack on his person.

Carhart was transported to police headquarters where he was charged with Contempt of Court, Possession of Crack Cocaine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was held on $8,500 bail with no 10% option set by Judge Richard Thompson.

On June 18, 2011 at approximately 2:15 pm Patrolman Christian Clark responded to a residence on Michael Drive in reference to a 17 year old female who was out of control and attempting to leave the residence. Upon arrival Patrolman Clark conducted an investigation which resulted in the female being arrested for Possession of Heroin and Possession of a Hypodermic Syringe.

She was transported to police headquarters where she was processed and released to her parents pending a court date.

On June 18, 2011 at approximately 12:05 am Patrolman Frank Mazza responded to the area of Thompson Avenue in reference to a vehicle that struck a fence. Upon arrival the officer conducted an investigation which resulted in the recovery of a glass pipe and a metal pipe used to smoke controlled dangerous substances and the arrest of the driver, identified as William Smith, age 36, from Thompson Avenue in West Keansburg, NJ.

Smith was transported to police headquarters where he was charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and was issued several motor vehicle summonses. He was processed and released on his own recognizance pending a court date.

On June 19, 2011 at approximately 8:25 pm Patrolman Michael Reuter responded to a residence on Oakdale Drive in reference to a subject making false reports to the police department. The subject, identified as Janis VanNortwick, age 42, from Oakdale Drive in Middletown, NJ, was continuously calling the police department reporting incidents that did not occur.

Office Reuter conducted an investigation which resulted in VanNortwick being arrested for False Reports to Law Enforcement. She was transported to police headquarters where she was processed and released pending a court date.

On June 21, 2011 at approximately 12:15 am Corporal Douglas Wiatrak conducted a motor vehicle stop in the area of Oak Hill Road and Highway 35. Upon approaching the vehicle the officer detected a strong odor of alcoholic beverages coming from the interior of the car.

Corporal Wiatrak conducted an investigation which resulted in the arrests of Damian Newell, age 18, from Nautilus Drive in Leonardo, NJ; Joseph Gambardella, age 18, from Michael Drive in Middletown, NJ, and Brett Williams, age 19, from Nautilus Drive in Leonardo, NJ, being arrested for Underage Possession of Alcohol. All three subjects were transported to police headquarters where they were processed and released pending a court date.


Middletown Police report the arrests of the following subjects for other offenses:

Jasmine Graham, age 18, from Rutherford Avenue in Neptune, NJ, arrested on June 13, 2011 by Patrolman Robert McNair on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Wall Township Municipal Court. She was held on bail.

Katherine Canavan, age 44, from Jefferson Street in Red Bank, NJ, arrested on June 13, 2011 by Corporal Richard Fusella on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Red Bank Municipal court. She was processed and released on bail.

Ryam Fisher, age 30, from Harbor View Drive in Atlantic Highlands, NJ, arrested on June 13, 2011 by Patrolman Adam Vandetti for Criminal Mischief and Simple Assault. He was released after posting $2,500 bail.

James Rathburn, age 41, from Oakland Avenue in Atlantic Highlands, NJ, arrested on June 13, 2011 by Patrolman Carl Roth for Harassment. He was held on $1,000.00 bail with no 10% option.

Jeffrey Riley, age 37, from Hillside Street in Red Bank, NJ, arrested on June 14, 2011 by Patrolman Anthony Bumbico for Criminal Mischief. He was released on his own recognizance.

George Trevett, age 51, from Highway 36 in Middletown, NJ, arrested on June 15, 2011 by Sgt. John Werner on a Contempt of Court warrant. He was released after posting bail.

Francis Shornock, age 44, from Pacific Avenue in Middletown, NJ, arrested on June 15, 2011 by Patrolman Stephen Greenwood on a Contempt of Court warrant. He was released after posting $750.00 bail.

Alicia Coppola, age 21, from Forest Avenue in Keansburg, NJ, arrested on June 16, 2011 by Patrolman Brady Carr on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. She was released after posting $500.00 bail.

William Deppisch, age 23, from Campbell Avenue in Belford, NJ, arrested on June 16, 2011 by Patrolman Richard Belmonte on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. He was released on his own recognizance.

David Doria, age 20, from Poricy Lane in Red Bank, NJ, arrested on June 17, 2011 by Patrolman Christian Clark on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. He was released after posting $250.00 bail.

Elizabeth Lopez-Colon, age 47, from Palmer Avenue in Middletown, NJ, arrested on June 17, 2011 by Patrolman Anthony Dellatacoma on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. She was held on $250.00 bail.

Brian Yocus, age 23, from Horatio Street in Newark, NJ, arrested on June 18, 2011 by Patrolman Michael Reuter for Criminal Mischief and Obstructing the Administration of Law. He was released pending a court date.

David Swientnicki, age 25, from Hawkins Street in Newark, NJ, arrested on June 18, 2011 by Patrolman Michael Reuter for Obstructing the Administration of Law. He was released pending a court date.

On June 18, 2011 Patrolman Michael Reuter arrested a 16 year old juvenile from Newark, NJ, for Obstructing the Administration of Law. He was released pending a court date.

Michael Candeloro, age 37, fro, Forest Avenue in Keansburg, NJ, arrested on June 18, 2011 by Corporal Douglas Wiatrak for Simple Assault. He was held on $2,500 bail with no 10% option.

Michael Candeloro, age 37, from Forest Avenue in Keansburg, NJ, arrested on June 19, 2011 by Patrolman Charles Higgins for Violation of a Court Order. He was held on $2,500 bail with no 10% option.

Scott Newell, age 43, from Nautilus Drive in Leonardo, NJ, arrested on June 19, 2011 by Patrolman Carl Roth for Simple Assault. He was released pending a court date.

Gary Stone, age 40, from Church Street in Belford, NJ, arrested on June 19, 2011 by Patrolman Antonio Ciccone for Simple Assault. He was released after posting $750.00 bail.

Danielle Cuneo, age 42, from Pine Street in Tinton Falls, NJ, arrested on June 19, 2011 by Corporal Bernie Chenoweth on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by Summit City Municipal Court. She was released after posting $240.00 bail.

Kristina Patrick, age 37, from Walnut Street in Port Monmouth, NJ, arrested on June 19, 2011 by Patrolman Charles Higgins on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Keansburg Municipal Court. She was held on $200.00 bail.

Lloyd Gutleber, age 48, from Buttonwood Road in Middletown, NJ, arrested on June 20, 2011 by Patrolman Charles Higgins on a three Contempt of Court warrants issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. He was held on $1,828.00 bail.

Deborah Sullivano, age 48, from Fredwood Place in Matawan, NJ, arrested on June 20, 2011 by Detective Kelly Godley on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. She was released on her own recognizance.

Felix Barrios, age 28, from Wareham Road in Dumont, NJ, arrested on June 20, 2011 by Corporal Daniel Murdoch on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. He was released after posting $500.00 bail.

Andrew Murphy, age 22, from Doranne Lane in Middletow , NJ, arrested on June 20, 2011 by Detective Kimberly Best on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Sea Bright Municipal Court. He was held on bail.

David Kelly, age 33, from Brainard Avenue in Port Monmouth, NJ, arrested on June 20, 2011 by Lieutenant John Kaiser on a Contempt of Court warrant issued by the Middletown Municipal Court. He was released after posting $250.00 bail.

Abigail Recierdo, age 30, from North Gaston Avenue in Summerville, NJ, arrested on June 20, 2011 by Patrolman James Beirne for Simple Assault. She was released on her own recognizance.

The Independent: Mid’town methadone clinic has neighbors up in arms Twp. attorney: Facility is permitted use in business zone

I was a little surprised to see that the Independent has chimed in already on the methadone clinic in Middletown. Usually due to the nature of it's weekly publication it lags behind a week or so of the currentness cycle.

I wont bore you with the analysis, the article is a straight forward rendition of the events of Monday night's Middletown Township Committee meeting so I'll just post a few quotes below from it and let you guys be the judge by leaving comments if you wish:

Middletown residents packed town hall on June 20 and demanded that the township revoke the certificate of occupancy (CO) of a methadone clinic, which has been legally operating near Apple Farm Road for several months.

The clinic, Middletown Medical, located on Route 35, which, according to its website, counsels opiate addicts and dispenses methadone to wean them off their dependence, has residents fearing for the integrity of their neighborhood.

“The location of the clinic jeopardizes our safety, the safety of our homes and most importantly, the safety of those who actively walk, run, drive or play in our neighborhood,” resident Diane Mullaney said at the Township Committee meeting.

Mullaney said that the clinic is near a school bus stop, senior center and the neighborhood’s only entrance and exit road. “Ultimately, the township neglected to keep the best interest of our neighborhood in their decision,” she said....

“The [state’s] municipal land use law … was amended a decade ago to specifically designate methadone clinics as business uses, allowing municipalities to only ban them from residential zones,” Township Attorney Brian Nelson advised.

Because the clinic is located on Route 35 in a business district, this law stifles any legal recourse from the township, Nelson said.

“Neither the mayor nor the governing body members were particularly pleased with this answer,” Nelson said.

“If you’re asking for us to pull the CO, which is what it sounds like you’re asking, we can’t legally do it,” Mayor Anthony Fiore said to residents.


“If you’re asking to put the township at risk for amajor lawsuit to do so, I don’t think that’s our fiduciary responsibility when we’re told by legal counsel that we won’t win.”...

“Nobody other than the zoning officer and code officials receive notice of these CO’s.”

Mercantante said that similar transfers happen every day.

“No member of this committee, including myself, had any knowledge that this facility was a methadone clinic,” Fiore said....

“I don’t want this business in Middletown, and I don’t think anyone else wants this business in Middletown. However, Route 35 is a state highway and it is a state business zone,” Fiore said.

“None of the committee is happy about this; in a best-case scenario, it’s terrible,” said Committeeman Steven Massell....

“We can control everything with respect to making sure that they are operating in a legal fashion and that they’re not going to cause those quality-of-life issues that you mention,” Fiore said.

“That’s our job. That’s our priority as a township committee, and we will do that.”...

Fiore said that the township also relies on the vigilance of neighborhood residents to help police.

“This is a huge township. You’re the eyes and ears, and if you see something there, we need to know about it,” he said.

Methadone Clinic Uproar At Town Hall

I briefly attended last nights Middletown Township Committee meeting, I was there for only the first 45 minutes, leaving at 8:45pm. It' to bad that I did because I could tell from the get go that it was going to be one hell of a night.

The first indication that it was going to be a hot one last night was the parking lot, nearly every space was full and that has happened in a very long time.

The other indication was the agitation of many in the audience. The standing room only, overflowing into the lobby crowd, was a mixed bag of residents who had never attended a Township Committee meeting before until last night and wanted to express their displeasure at having a methadone clinic open up just outside of the only way in and out of their neighborhood.

Having never been to a meeting before they were unaware of the protocol of following the agenda and couldn't understand why they had to wait to speak their mind.

Many hemmed and hawed having to wait their turn while sitting through the solar project presentation presented by a Birdsall Engineering representative that rushed through the presentation and a couple of public hearings on different ordinances, which by that time I had to leave.

Before I left however I did speak to a few individuals who expressed their dismay at not being informed of the methadone clinic a head of time, wondering exactly how something like this could happen and were hoping that the Township Committee would stand up to the clinic and somehow, someway have it shut down.

As I expected and found out earlier today from talking to a few that were their and reading online accounts, those that govern the Township told those in attendance that nothing could be done, that the clinic is in it's legal rights to be there and anything that the Township did to try and prevent the clinic from operating could possible lead to a very costly law suit that more than likely be decided against the Township.

When I asked if last night's meeting was really as loud and crazy as it was made out to be by the online accounts from the redbankgreen.com and MiddletownPatch I was told "most definitely". More raucous then some meetings from last year when the planned turf fields were being fought against by members of SONIC, LVGA and the Pop Warner Chargers of Trezza Field? Absolutely I was told. The reason being, which made a lot of sense, was because while SONIC, LVGA and the Chargers were against a proposed plan that hadn't been implemented yet, the residents of Apple Brook development, who's only way into and out of their neighborhood is directly past the methadone clinic, didn't have a say into whether or not they wished to be living within walking distance of a clinic that distributes one dangerously addictive drug to stop the cravings of another and who's clients have potential criminal records. And when you consider what could happen to the values of their homes because of the presence of the Middletown Medical clinic, I understood why.

So what's their recourse? According to those on the Township Committee, the Municipal Attorney and Township Administrator not much, but I have heard talk that the residents are thinking of hiring lawyers in order to, somehow, force the town to take action or force the clinic to move, neither of which I think will be effective.

I've also heard word that residents may start picketing the clinic to draw more attention to it, which would then drive away those seeking treatment, that way the for-profit clinic may come to the conclusion that it wouldn't be prudent for their bottom-line to continue operating at the location and move on their own.

I hope to have some audio of the meeting later this week for posting so that myself and others can hear how crazy it actually was.

What You Missed at the Middletown Library Board’s June 15th Meeting

by guest blogger Linda Baum

It was just me again Wednesday night, a little discouraged that more people didn’t show up to support the library. Anyway, here’s what you missed in those 3 hours.

First, an update on the $500K transfer. Scheduled for this meeting was final review of the strategic plan and annual report to be submitted to the State Librarian, plus a required second vote by the Board as to whether or not to proceed with the transfer.

The Board’s review of the budget forecast began with Ms. O’Neal pointing out the obvious, that library funding would be painfully low for years to come. Ms. Miloscia asked, since they would be giving up a lot, if the town would recognize that gesture in the future when the library needs assistance as well. Initially, this struck me as a silly question because I think the town committee has made it clear in which direction they expect money to flow. But it has since occurred to me the Board has a perfect right to know what the arrangement with the town will be. Committeeman Settembrino gave a well rehearsed response free of promises. He said that he didn’t see why not, but mentioned non-starters like the tax cap and the changing leadership on the committee (which will still be republican-controlled next year, by the way). And as evidence of the town’s concern for the library, he pointed out that the town’s 2012 capital improvement plan already includes them (under this plan, the town issues the debt and the library pays the debt service). Ms. O’Neal asked if the Board would be forced to proceed, and she may have meant proceed with the lot construction, the funding arrangement, or both. No to all. The Board has the option to pay cash outright for the work, which presumably would allow them to make their own arrangements except for having to use T&M as engineer. Ms. Miloscia asked, “What if we don’t have the money to pay for it?” Kevin replied, “[That] will be a discussion for next year’s committee, but at this point I would say it doesn’t get accomplished unless it’s funded in accordance with the resolution.” Translation: The Board has 2 options, to make payments on the debt or pay cash for the work, but they should not expect the town to pay for it. For now, the parking lot expansion is a dead issue.

If you read my last post, you know that at the May Board meeting, Ms. O’Neal mentioned that the Board had not been satisfied with prior work done by T&M, who has been sanctioned by the town committee as the one-and-only engineer for all library capital improvements. I asked about that – i.e., what work was done by T&M and when was it done? Only Ms. O’Neal and Mr. Gabrielan spoke and they declined to discuss it, saying it was long ago and they have been assured that T&M would do a fine job. Needless to say, everyone seemed acutely aware that Committeeman Settembrino was in the room. Susan glanced often in his direction as she spoke. Unfortunately, I couldn’t see what kind of looks were being exchanged because my view of Kevin was blocked by the sound equipment.

Review of the Board’s strategic goals led to a discussion about the library in Charlotte, North Carolina, which was at one time among the best funded professional-level libraries in the country, but which had to close branches following a loss of funding and the leadership of its long-time director.

The plight of the Charlotte Library demonstrates why improving library volunteerism is an important goal. Public advocacy – our time and our money – becomes increasingly important when political advocacy and funding fall short. Got some free time? Or college-bound and looking for community service credit? Contact your local library.

The strategic plan and annual report were unanimously adopted by a vote of 7-0 (Resolution 2011-32).

When it came time to vote on the transfer itself (Resolution 2011-33), only Board president Randy Gabrielan took the opportunity to condemn the self-serving, deceptive tactics used by the town committee and to voice his frustration with his fellow trustees. It deserves repeat here:

“We saw the evolving fiscal condition of the library in March and it is here in clear black and white in the strategic plan. We would be imperiling the fiscal well being of this library over the next couple of years if we gave this money away. As far as I personally am concerned, the giveaway is tantamount to the township committee declaring war on its own library. The whole process as I see it is one of the mayor seeking to fulfill his short term political goals, the mayor and the committee not having done what they could have done with respect to cap exceptions and an exemption to meet their budgetary requirements, and they are putting their obligations on us. They did it by various threats, including holding hostage police jobs. Then after we passed our preliminary resolution in March, they’re going to other meetings still holding the same jobs at risk. I was against this in March. I’m against it now. I would have strongly counseled that we rescind our prior passage and vote this down, but unfortunately on the advice of counsel, it seems that our hands are tied. …but I insist that if we as a body don’t recognize what this is doing to the financial well being of the library, that at least the record demonstrates that.”

There was a full 15 seconds of silence after that. It felt like a memorial.

“It’s too much water under the bridge at this point to undo what’s been done.…This Board made a commitment to the township to do this,” said Mr. Milne. There was tacit agreement, and a roomful of downcast eyes. After hearing from Ms. O’Neal that even the Board’s lawyers thought that the Board did not have good legal standing at this point to back off, it was clear that the pending vote was little more than a formality. Resolution 2011-33 passed 6-1, with only Mr. Gabrielan dissenting.

I have to wonder if the town committee knew early on that the effect of railroading the Library Board into what was initially billed as non-binding negotiation would be to obligate them legally. Think back to the February Board meeting when Committeeman Settembrino pressed for a resolution to arrive at a number. The Board passed that resolution because they thought there was no harm in talking….

So now the matter will be passed along to the State Librarian, Norma Blake, for review. I heard somewhere that it could take up to 45 days for her decision. That doesn’t jive with the town committee’s plan to finalize their 2011 budget in early July. I asked Committeeman Settembrino how they expected to do that if the State Librarian hadn’t yet approved the transfer. The Board agreed with his assessment that all the documents were in order and that a quick response was expected from the State. Unfortunately, in line with regulations, the State Librarian reviews only the current year's finances. Thus it is expected that the library’s budget shortfall for subsequent years will be ignored.

I asked Mr. Settembrino how the town would plug the $500K budget hole in the unlikely event the transfer was disapproved. He replied that the library board meeting wasn’t the right forum for that discussion, but he did clarify that the 2.99% tax hike (he said 2.99, not 2.9) reflects the 2% maximum increase within the cap.

Other business discussed at the meeting is as follows:

There was a slideshow presented by Dennis Kowal Architects, who recently completed a feasibility study for the renovation of the Lincroft branch, originally a 2-room schoolhouse built in 1906. The presentation was so packed with photos and sketches that if you’ve never been to the Lincroft branch, you’ll feel like you have. You can view the slideshow by clicking HERE

The good news is that the original structure is sound and can therefore be renovated. There is also ample parking since an overflow lot was added not long back. The renovation would include lots of energy efficiency upgrades while retaining existing wood floors and original hardware. A drawing of the architect’s proposed design is attached to this post. It includes a charming outdoor plaza-lounge created by sandwiching the front walkway between an existing structure and a new addition that would house new ADA-compliant bathrooms and an entry foyer. There is also a magazine lounge, a quiet study area, a contained children’s room (draft-free and no more runaways), and a fireside reading area complete with a gas-burning fireplace. If you live in Lincroft, you are probably filled with a sense of longing right now.


The project would cost roughly $650,000, not including new furniture, security and communication systems, architectural fees, or renovation to the basement storage area (filled with old municipal and police records). Add it all up, and the project budget would need to be in the range of $800 to $900K. And a caveat that the final design could change based on location of underground lines (the architect could not obtain a copy of the property survey).

The renovation probably won’t happen anytime soon because library funds are low for reasons we are all well aware of. The project might qualify for a matching New Jersey Historic Trust grant, but there is stiff competition for these grants, and Mr. Gabrielan, who is town historian in addition to being Library Board president, feels that the chance of getting the grant is slim. No decision has been made yet about how to proceed. The topic is slated for further discussion next month.

Ms. Cavalier asked if they knew how much financial support could be expected from the community. Susan said that $713K was donated for the 2004 renovation of the main branch, but only a small part of that was from Lincroft residents, who may be much more inclined to help fund their local branch. So be on the lookout for fundraisers!

If you are concerned about donating for fear your dollars will end up in the hands of the town, don’t worry. The Board was very clear that Library Foundation money is protected and is not part of the $500K transfer.

You may recall from a prior post that the Lincroft branch has termite damage in the entryway and is believed to have asbestos in the walls as well as lead-based paint. The architect didn’t test for hazardous materials and cautioned the board that if testing for hazmats is done, there is a legal requirement to remediate in line with test results. Susan advised that all paintable surfaces in the Lincroft branch were painted with latex paint in the last decade, so the lead-based paint poses no immediate concern. As for the termites, damage is supposedly concentrated in trim moulding rather than structural beams. The Board opted to wait and address these issues as part of the renovation.

Congratulations to Library Director Susan O’Neal, who is the NJ Library Association’s president-elect for coming fiscal year. “This is both a high honor and an awesome responsibility,” to quote Mr. Gabrielan. Susan’s name will be engraved on one of the silver-toned pages of a book-shaped locket to mark her achievement. The locket, a heavy piece made of gold and faience (tin-glazed ceramic), is the badge of office for NJLA presidents. Susan noted that the locket is actually too heavy to comfortably wear and reasoned that it was designed for a time when ladies wore much heavier clothing. A picture and history of the locket may soon appear on the library’s website.

In accordance with the Conover Whitol Scholarship guidelines, two graduate students enrolled in Rutgers’ library science program will receive $900 each toward the September term. Congratulations to recipients Debra Bodofsky and Elizabeth Edwards. (Resolution 2011-34, 7-0)

The Library welcomes back college student Stephanie Chadwick, who worked at the library last summer and is being re-hired part time for this year’s busy summer season. As a trained page, she is a valuable addition who can “hit the ground running”. (Resolution 2011-31, 7-0)

There was a first-time-ever theft of petty cash recently from the library’s Bayshore branch. The thief scored a negligible amount, and a lock-box will be added to deter future attempts. Yet another sign of the times.

Another topic concerned bill payments that have been held up by town administrator Tony Mercantante. In one instance, the requisition was for the payment of registration fees for a June conference that would provide training for five library assistants at a cost of $100 per person. The payment delay resulted in the registration deadline being missed, so the individuals couldn’t attend and will have to wait a year for the next conference. In another case, payment was denied for food expenses as part of conference attendance by a member of the library’s IT staff. Tony said the town doesn’t reimburse for food. However, the Library does. The Board felt this was unwarranted interference with Library operations. Mr. Gabrielan pointed out that the costs in question are normal outlays for staff development, benefit the library, and have been approved and budgeted for by the Board. Ms. Cavalier wondered if the problem was just ignorance (her word, not mine) on the part of the administrator.

In an effort to address the delays, Susan has contacted Mr. Mercantante, who feels he is within his authority. About a year ago, per Susan, Tony began asking for a written explanation for requisitions over $1000, but Susan said that the voucher, which is attached to the requisition, already lists that information, so to write it again is a duplication of effort for her. She said, “Anything over $1000 he sits on.” Part of the problem, Susan said, is that no one from the town contacts her when there is a question about an expense, so it doesn’t get addressed until she calls the town after there has already been a long delay. She’s wondered if maybe the slowness has to do with cash flow……

This was all news to Kevin, who said he’d look into it.

NJPP: In the end-game for the NJ state budget, the stakes couldn't be higher.

June 20th 2011,

Dear Supporters,

Over the next two weeks - as the Legislature rushes to produce a budget that won't drown in the ink from the line-item veto pen - we're all too likely to fully realize the "new normal" that Governor Christie talked about when he proposed his budget four months ago.

It goes something like this:

Rich people and corporations get tax breaks.

The middle class will pay more.

We will all have to make do with less.

Instead of a balanced approach that includes revenues - like the courageous governor of Connecticut proposed - New Jersey's budget relies only on cuts in services.

Instead of finding ways to invest in building blocks of a strong economy - schools, police, libraries, health care, parks, roads and bridges - the governor has dug in even further, promising to veto any tax increase, including a tax on millionaires' incomes that has overwhelming public support. Even as state revenues start to rise a bit in the recession's wake, the administration in Trenton insists we can't afford:

Health care for working parents if they earn more than $115 a week.

Women's health care at family planning clinics, even though it means missing out on federal matching funds, an increase in unintended pregnancies and higher costs to treat uninsured patients.

Maintaining the state Earned Income Tax Credit for working poor families, who have seen their taxes increase by $300 a year - the equivalent of a week's wages - while the wealthiest got a tax cut.

Meanwhile, the state has found more than enough money to hand out $1 billion in subsidies and tax breaks for developers and corporations, including some of the most profitable businesses in the state. Extensive research and plain old common sense show that these giveaways don't create jobs.

That's where we come in.

As we have for 14 years, NJPP is shining a spotlight on important policy decisions with the goal of having a state government that promotes broadly shared prosperity for all New Jerseyans instead of picking winners and losers.

We're proud to be a leading voice for fairness in New Jersey, using solid research and strategic communications to strongly advocate for those who have the smallest voices in the public arena - the poor, working families, the disabled and other vulnerable people in our society.

And we couldn't do it without you.

NJPP's generous supporters understand why our work is so important to the vision of New Jersey they want for themselves and their children.

You've received several emails from us in the past week highlighting our work.

Now, we are asking for your help.

Please click on the "donate" button below and give to NJPP today.

By contributing you will enable NJPP to keep digging deeper into tough policy issues and widely share our findings to make a difference in people's lives. Every donation counts, whether it's $1,000 to print and publish one of our reports or $50 to cover the cost of copying documents requested through the Open Public Records Act.

As you follow what's going on in Trenton with the budget and other issues over the next couple of weeks, I ask that you keep in mind the work New Jersey Policy Perspective is doing and the role that you can play.

Together, we can create a "new normal" that lifts up every one of us, not just the privileged few.

Thanks so much for your support - past and future.

Sincerely,

Deborah Howlett, President

DONATE