Letter: Candidates' Ethics And Lack Of Respect Towards Others On Display

To the Editor:

At the Lincroft Village Candidates' Night last night (Oct.21st) I was able to hear candidates for Monmouth County Freeholders board and Middletown Township Committee. It was a great opportunity to get a flavor of their views and personalities.

One important issue discussed was that of having a code of ethics and an ethics board. The need for these became apparent when several ethical lapses by incumbents were mentioned.

I was further disconcerted by an obvious lack of respect toward their fellow candidates and the audience displayed by the Middletown Committee candidates.

They constantly whispered to each other while a speaker was talking. As at Middletown meetings, Mr. Fiore showed his displeasure by eye-rolling and making faces. It was distracting and reminded me of their frequent meeting behavior, including yelling at public speakers, and of grade school, when the teacher would say, "Do you have something to share with the class?"

Their challengers, Patrick Short and George Mardinly are ethical gentlemen who have not displayed such behaviors, but instead listen with empathy and respect to our citizens. I will feel much safer and respected when the challengers replace the incumbents.

Carolyn Schwebel
Leonardo

Democrats seek bipartisanship in Middletown

Out this week in the Independent is an overview of the candidates running for Middletown Township Committee. Below is an excerpt featuring the comments of Middletown Democrats Patrick Short and George Mardinly.

"... Democratic challenger Short agrees that the issues vary across neighborhoods in Middletown. He said he is running to help bring another voice to the committee to help raise new questions about those issues. 

Patrick Short

“Middletown has been ruled by one party for a very, very long time,” Short said. “ … I’m more concerned that there’s only one party affiliation than which party it is.”

In 2006, Short was elected to the committee as the sole Democrat, where he sought to raise questions that he said often went unasked.

He said the “larger picture” is bringing different perspectives to the committee through party diversity.

According to Short, some pressing issues facing Middletown that demand immediate attention include the Bayshore recovery, reducing traffic in Lincroft and finishing the incomplete bridge on Bay Avenue.

Mardinly echoed his running mate’s point of view, emphasizing what he said was the need to break the single-party dominance of the Township Committee.

George Mardinly

“Any good government is based on the diversity of opinion,” he said.

One of the universal concerns across all of Middletown’s neighborhoods remains the balance between investment in infrastructure and controlling taxes, according to Mardinly.

“If any of these things are going to be attended to in addition to all of the ongoing expenditures, it all comes from tax money,” he said.

In order to ensure the township’s taxes remain stable, Mardinly said it is important to prioritize spending and make decisions based on facts and data.

“You have to look at the numbers and the priorities, and then go from there,” he said. “The goal here is to work together, see what the economics are, and then see what can be addressed and what needs to be addressed in a sensible way.”

Read the full article from the Independent.

May 5, 2014 Middletown Township Committee Meeting: Finance Committee Indeed

Last Monday's Township Committee Workshop Meeting was a short one. How short do you ask? It lasted only 17:39 minutes. If you sneezed or blinked you missed it. Good thing there is a video of  it to prove that it actually took place. It's sad when the Public Comments portion (starting at 7:25) of the meeting lasted longer than the Business portion of the meeting.

The highlight of the meeting was when Don Watson (8:05) questioned items on the Bill List and not surprising, the members of the Township Committee didn't know what Mr. Watson was asking about and had no answer for him. And these people are in charge of our tax dollars!

Years ago when Democrat Patrick Short was elected to the Township Committee, he made it a point to read the bill list every month and questioned what the township was spending money on. It became apparent very quickly that the other members of the Township Committee never looked at or questioned the bill list that was present in their meeting packets each month. For his efforts, Short was publicly ridiculed by his colleagues on the dais (all Republicans BTW) for questioning Township spending. It was a travesty to witness.

Now, once again we have evidence that the Committee members, who act as Middletown's  "Finance Committee", aren't doing their job. It's an embarrassment  when the Township Attorney has to answer basic questions about township finances on the behalf of committee members. Watch the video and you'll see what I'm talking about.



As always, you can download a copy of the Meeting Agenda that contains the discussion items and the proposed resolutions and ordinances that were voted on or presented during the meeting. A box around an item is a link, bringing you further into the document to that resolution or ordinance. At the end of the resolution there will be a link bringing you back to the agenda. Attached to this agenda is also the monthly bill list, so that everyone can see how the Township is spending our tax dollars.

Letter: It's Time To Reform Property Taxes And Lessen The Burden On Homeowners

Today, 60% of our property tax goes to funding schools. A system that relies on the property owner’s income to keep pace with a school tax that increases as one’s property value increases is a flawed system. Property owner’s income does not increase over time; it decreases and will not keep up as a school tax and property value increase.

To lessen this tax burden, remove school tax from property tax. Make this tax a responsibility that is shared among all residents; not just those who own property. Instead, use earned income as the basis for a school tax and a dedicated sales tax on goods and services that are purchased.

Earned income is the best indicator of what one is able to pay.More importantly, every resident would be made eligible. Everyone who earns an income would contribute regardless if they own property or not. A dedicated sales tax would capture income that is not documented or reported and is only recognized when items are purchased; generally the case for those who use our schools and town services, but don’t pay for them. Homeowners would pay less of a school tax under this shared approach as compared to what they are paying under the current system. Owners no longer could hide behind Farmland assessment on land that is used more to view the Navesink than it is used for true farming. Additional revenue would be gained from those who travel in and out of our State.

Lastly, time has come to level the playing field and to do away with Abbott Districts. Take the revenue that is set aside, at the State level, for school funding and establish a foundation requiring all school districts to apply for. Establish general guidelines and a funding criteria based on need. Most importantly, hold the school district accountable for how the funding was utilized before evaluating the funding needs for the upcoming year.


Patrick Short
Former - Middletown Township Committeeman

Open Letter to Township Committee - 13 Oct 2006: Middletown Township Committee Must Address Appearance of Conflict of Interest Issue

While campaigning for Township Committee back in 2006, then Democratic Candidate Patrick Short sent a letter to Mayor Tom Hall and the rest of the Middletown Township Committee expressing his concerns over the inappropriate public contract that was handed to Sodon Electric Inc. and it's owner Republican candidate for Township Committee Tim Sodon.

In his letter that you can read below, Short pointed out that Sodon had received over $92,000 for services performed from Dec.2005 thru Sept, 2006 while doing electrical work for the Township. A lot of the electrical work at the time that he did was for maintaining Park and Recreation facilities and other Municipal buildings. At the time of this letter, Sodon was also a member of the Recreation Advisory Board and could direct work to his company when needed.

Today Tim Sodon is the electrical contractor in town by resolution and gets all the work. As a sitting member of the Middletown Planning Board, applicants before the Board have his ear and could inappropriately direct electrical work his way, if they thought that it would improve their chances of having a project approved, as one of the commenter to a previous post pointed out.

The bottom line is, if you are an elected or appointed official in any capacity whatsoever, you should not be contracting service and making a living off the people that you are suppose to be representing. It is inappropriate, a clear conflict of interest and unethical.

If Tony Fiore and his ilk wish to force out Library Board President Randall Gabrielan over some book sale than they should also be ready to ask Tim Sodon to step down from the Planning Board due to his public, no-bid contract for electrical services that he currently holds here in Middletown.

Open Letter to Middletown Township Committee

To: Mayor, Middletown Township
From: Patrick Short

13 October 2006

Subject: Middletown Township Committee Must Address Appearance of Conflict of Interest Issue

I was surprised to find and disappointed to learn that the “Good ‘O Boy” and even Pay for Play may still be active and taking place in Middletown. Despite steps taken to remove this type of conduct in Monmouth County and in Middletown, I do not understand why the Township Committee would permit the appearance of this unacceptable practice to take place.

The relationship between the Parks and Recreation Department and Sodon Electric Inc. may be an example of this impropriety. In the past 10 months, the town has paid Sodon Electric Inc. a total of $92,072.26 for services’ performed from December 2005 through September 2006. This has occurred while the principal partner of Sodon Electric Inc., Mr. Timothy Sodon, is the Republican Party Candidate seeking a seat on the Township Committee; the same committee that approves payment to Sodon Electric Inc. as a contractor in our town. Mr. Sodon is also the chairman of the Recreation Advisory Board; a board that influences projects performed for the Parks and Recreation Department. Any electrical maintenance service that is performed, it is done by Sodon Electric Inc. Most troubling is the fact that payment to Sodon Electric Inc for services performed has more than tripled since Mr. Sodon became the Republican Party candidate and a member and chairman of the Recreation Advisory Board.

Mr. Sodon will have to decide whether he wants to remain a contractor who provides a service to the town or whether he wants to be Committee member, if elected, who approves contractors and the work that they perform within the town. Doing both promotes the appearance of a conflict.

However, it is the responsibility of the Township Committee to ensure that conflict of interest or the appearance thereof does not take place. And if it does, action should immediately be taken to remedy the situation. Our town ought to be viewed as a town that treats all contractors/vendors fairly, impartially, and in the best interest of the tax payer. Our town ought not to be viewed as a town that selects a contractor/vendor off a “Good O Boy” list or because it is an insider to the Republican Party.

I would hope that the Township Committee would view this situation from the eyes of the other twenty-seven (27) electric companies in our town that may want to do business in Middletown. These electrical companies must have confidence that they will not be excluded from doing work in Middletown if they do not subscribe to political patronage. Rather, they subscribe to a high ethical standard and provide quality of service at a cost that is in the best interest of the Middletown taxpayer.

To demonstrate that the Township Committee embraces these principles, I recommend the Township Committee remedy this situation by taking the following steps:

1. Establish a policy to prohibit any elected and/or appointed official from performing contractual work in the township and any contractor/vendor from being an elected and/or appointed official.
2. Replace Mr. Sodon as a member/chairperson of the Recreation Advisory Board.
3. Place an immediate “Stop Work” on all work currently being performed by Sodon Electric Inc.
4. Re-Issue a Request for Proposal Competitive Bid for electrical maintenance services performed in the Township of Middletown.

Respectfully,

Patrick Short

Meet & Greet The Candidates Democratic Football Watch

Please Join

Congressman Frank Pallone

13th District Candidates Chris Cullen for State Senate, Kevin M. Lavan & Patrick Short for State Assembly.

and

Monmouth County Democratic Freeholder Candidates Amy Mallet & Bill Shea and friends, for a fun filled afternoon of football, food, and spirits.

$15 gets you food, open bar, and THE JETS!

Sunday, November 6 · 1:00pm - 4:00pm

Red Oak Diner
2973 Route 35 North, Hazlet

Patrick Short; The three most important issues facing the State and how he would address them

Former Middletown Democratic Committeeman Patrick Short is currently seeking election to one of the two NJ State Assembly seats up for grabs in this years 13th Legislative District race.

He was asked recently by Patch.Com and NJ Spotlight to submit his thoughts on a few issues effecting the State and what he would do to address them in the event that he was elected to the Assembly this coming Tuesday, Nov.8th.

Knowing that only portions of his answers would be addressed in the columns written, Mr. Short sent me the outline that he submitted to the other publications.

His answers are insightful and well thought out. If elected on Tuesday, Short would bring his business experience, commonsense reasoning and solutions to the State House in Trenton as well as his personal discipline and principles that he learned as a cadet while attending the US Military Academy at West Point.

Here is what he sent:

1. Restore Trust in Government (Leadership, Trust and Responsibility)

I am a West Point graduate and a retired military officer who dedicated 22 years serving our country. I understand what unselfish service is about; that is my character. As a Middletown Township Committeeman (2006-2009), I kept all of my campaign promises. I did what I said I would do. I made it clear through my actions that I was a public servant; whose’ purpose was to serve and not to take. I was the only elected official in the State of New Jersey, who did not take Health Benefits, and refused to enroll into the State Pension System. In my last year in office, I refused to take a salary and further illustrated that I had chosen to serve the people and not myself. I lead by example. I take responsibility and am accountable for my actions. And, I want to restore confidence and trust in today’s government. As an elected official, it is my duty to serve all the people not a select few. I don’t ask one’s party affiliation before I provide assistance. I believe in political independence. I am a doer, not a talker. I find a way to fix problems. That is what I do as a certified project manager managing multi-million dollar projects to cost, schedule, and customer’s expectation. I would ask the District 13 residents to “Hire” me” rather than “Elect me”. Think of it as if you want some work done on your house. You hire the best qualified individual to do that work. I would say, “Hire me to do the work you want done in Trenton. In the end, if you are not satisfied, then replace me”. Many of today’s politician’s have lost sight of how lead, to be responsible and to gain people’s trust. I ask to look past the “Scarlet D” I wear on my forehead and vote for the person not the party. See my character, knowing that I will do what I say I will do and represent District 13 residents truthfully and unselfishly.


2. It is about Creating Jobs. Let’s put New Jersey Back To Work

While everyone was focused on the budget this past year, it reminded me of a youth soccer game. Everyone chased the ball to the “Spending” side of the field while vacating the “Revenue” side of the field. Managing spending is extremely important in business, but managing spending will not keep a business in operation. Making money and generating revenue is what keeps a business in operation. My record shows that I understand the importance of managing spending, what is spent, why it is spent and how it is spent. I consistently voted to cut taxes and reduce spending and never voted in favor of a tax increase as a Middletown Committeeman. I regularly disapproved monthly expenditures that I felt were unnecessary and inappropriate. While I will continue to be a watchdog on spending, a significant part of my time will be used to bringing revenue into New Jersey to create jobs. Today, there are businesses that are spending money. The problem is they are not spending their money in New Jersey. We need an aggressive approach to capture those business opportunities. I am not talking about offering more tax credits. To me, those are secondary measures that are only offered when there is some assurance that the expected Return on Investment (ROI) will be met. What I am speaking about is an approach that is taken by corporate businesses that use Capture Managers to aggressively seek out and capture business to preserve and grow market share. We have not done enough to actively go after business opportunities to bring revenue into New Jersey. I want to expose Trenton to existing business opportunities , where money is already being spent, that can be captured and brought into New Jersey to stimulate economic development and job creation. Here are a few samples.

a. Department of Defense (DOD)-Research, Development, and Procurement Funding: The DOD spends billions of dollars each year on military approved technology programs and projects. This funding stream flows into the States that have military bases that sponsor these programs. While New Jersey has the military facilities available for this business, clearly, Maryland values the economic impact that these military installation make and they have made it a priority to capture the DOD business. Unlike New Jersey, Maryland has created a “how to manual” on how to foster a partnership between the State’s military installation and private sector, in order, to gain revenue and to create jobs. They have Capture Managers at the Local, State and Federal level that aggressively go after this business. As a result, Maryland is ranked 4th out of the 50 States when it comes to obtaining funding for DOD military programs and projects. New Jersey, on the other hand, is ranked 48th. Subsequently, unemployment around Maryland military facilities is 4% as compared to 9+% around New Jersey facilities. Note: In 2009, over $3.4B flowed through Fort Monmouth for these technology projects, $38M, of which, was for salaries which the surrounding communities significantly benefited from. New Jersey no longer has Fort Monmouth, ironically Maryland does. However, New Jersey still has the tri-bases of McGuire, Dix and Lakehurst and other installations. We must value these military bases and their ability to sponsor these technology programs and projects. DOD money is being spent and will continue to be spent on these approved projects. We need to adopt a “Why not New Jersey” mentality and aggressively capture more of this DOD market share.

b. Film and TV Productions: New York is a major player in the film and TV industrial market; New Jersey is not. Since January, 70 new movie and TV projects have gone into New York, pumping $1 billion into their State and Local economy. A total of 4,700 industry-related jobs are being created. Pat Swinney Kaufman, executive director of the Governor’s Office for Motion Picture and Television Development is New York’s “Capture Manager”. He has identified that this business is willing to spend money and he is aggressively going after a greater market share in this business sector. Again I ask, “Why not New Jersey”; an existing market that is going to spend money why not spend it in New Jersey. Important point, in many cases, tax credits need not be offered to gain this business. It is simply becoming a player; promoting what New Jersey has to offer and that we value their business.

c. High Tech industry and Job Creation: IBM, Intel, Global Foundries, TSMC and Samsung have committed to invest $4.4 billion over five years to create 2,500 permanent new jobs in New York to build next generations of computer chips. Officials credited the state government’s interest, cooperation between public and private sectors and an effective government working together on a coordinated economic strategy, to capture this business opportunity. “Why not New Jersey”. Where are our Capture Managers? If this market is available and these businesses are willing to spend their money, I want it done here in New Jersey. We have abundant facilities waiting to be filled and we have the high tech resources ready to be employed. Let’s find these business opportunities and get a larger piece of this market share.

d. Embrace the Federal initiative for Renewable Energy in support of NJ small businesses: If the Federal government has made it a goal to fund Renewable Energy projects, then our Capture Managers should aggressively capture business opportunities in this market for New Jersey. New Jersey small businesses are doing fairly well with solar products to expand solar technology. However, I want Capture Managers to aggressively promote more of what these small businesses have to offer; not only with solar technology but also with other Renewable Energy technology. For example, wind turbines are being installed throughout the United States but not with US manufactured wind turbines. “Why not New Jersey” if we have the leading technologist and manufacture of wind turbine products located in Toms River. I want New Jersey to own the solar panel and wind turbine market so these products can be manufactured here in New Jersey by New Jersey resources. Let’s go after the Renewable energy market and push New Jersey made products.

e. Repatriate foreign profit tied to US investment and job creation: American companies have more than a trillion dollars in profits that have been made overseas after foreign taxes have been paid but won’t bring the profit back to the US because the 35% US tax would be applied. Instead, they invest and hire abroad. However, these companies would return a huge portion of these profits to the US for investment, if it were taxed at a lower rate. John Chambers, CEO of Cisco, recently stated that Cisco would not build a manufacturing facility in U.S. when one can be built in Ireland at the 17% tax rate. If we want to become a player in this market, which today we are not, then we must reduce the tax to gain more of a market share. The tax rate needs to be reduced at a flat rate or a sliding scale applied that is based on the amount that is invested and the total number of jobs created. Whatever the case, these companies are spending their profit but it is not being spent in the U.S. New Jersey Legislatures, at all levels, must advocate for change while Capture Managers reach out to these companies and promote New Jersey resources in order to capture this business after this change comes about.

f. Legalize gambling in all regions of the State: In business, you have to adapt to change or you will not remain in business. The gambling industry is changing and New Jersey is not adapting quickly enough to retain or grow shares in this market. The question is, “Do we want people to spend their money in New Jersey or do we want them to spend their money elsewhere”? The majority of voters in New York back legalize casino gambling in all regions of their state. A recent Zogby poll showed 64% of voters, in our neighboring State, think this would be good for the economy (Carl Camanile). New York Legislators have listened and are acting to legalize gambling in all regions of their State. Likewise, recent polls in New Jersey show a wide support of a constitutional amendment that would authorize the waging on sporting events at casinos and horse racetracks. It is time for our corporation, New Jersey, to adapt to this change and to change our business model so New Jersey can retain, if not gain, market share and its associated revenue stream that would otherwise be lost to our neighboring State.

g. Now is the time for Capital projects: Now is the time to invest in capital projects that would immediately put our trades back to work to fix our aging infrastructure of roads, rail, bridges, airports, tunnels and even school projects that have less start up time than many other projects. With 10 yr. Treasury bonds around 2% borrowing costs; there has never been a more opportune time to invest in these types of projects to put New Jersey back to work.

3. Property Tax Reform: Find a more equitable funding stream for schools and remove school tax from local property tax.

Currently, approximately 60% of one’s tax bill goes to school funding while the rest is divided between local municipal and county tax. The problem is, only people who own property pay this tax. I believe we can find a more equitable way to fund schools and lessen the burden that is currently being shouldered by only the homeowner. I would like to see if New Jersey can adapt a model that is currently being used in Michigan where school tax is funded on earned income from all residents and not just homeowners who own property. Not only would there be more contributors but it would be equitable since the amount paid would be based on one’s earned income rather than the value of the homeowner’s property. Michigan couples this approach with a sales tax that is dedicated to funding schools. The sales tax captures revenue from all residents, as well as, those traveling in and out of their state. In addition, the sales tax captures the undocumented income that is only seen when it is spent. Removing school tax from property tax and having it supplemented based on income and a dedicated sales tax would especially provide relief to those property owners with fixed incomes who struggle with property taxes increases and which often forces them to sell their property.

About:

Patrick Short is the owner of - Patrick Short Consulting Services-specializing in Project Management

MA – National Security-Strategic Planning & Decision-Making), Naval War College, Newport, RI
MS - Contract Acquisition Management, Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne Fl
MA - Management and Human Relations, Webster University, St. Louis, Mo.
BS - Applied Sciences and Engineering, US Military Academy, West Point, NY
• Taught Economics at the College Level
• Recognized by the State of New Jersey for Community Services
• Chairman, “Nick Rowe Memorial ” Committee; Union Beach
• Deputy Director, Concerned Civic Associations of Middletown
• Vice President; Concern Citizens of Middletown
• Board of Governor’s-West Point Society of New Jersey

APP: Lack Of Compelling Candidates Leads To Incumbent Endorsements In The 13th LD ??

The Asbury Park Press Editorial Board came up with some really scary reasoning as to why it decided to once again back incumbent Republicans as opposed to endorsing any of their opponents in the 13th Legislative District race this year.

In doing so they have attempted to dispel readership criticism of their obvious bias toward incumbent Republicans and the lack to follow through on their own rhetoric towards incumbency.

"...We often bemoan the power of incumbency and the lack of competitive legislative races in this state. A big part of the reason so many races are uncompetitive is that those who run against the incumbents are not compelling candidates...."

Not compelling candidates? Really? That one is a bit hard to believe.

How much more compelling candidates do you need than 2 former mayors of Hazlet and the first Democrat elected to the Middletown Township Committee in over 25 years, who have stressed the importance of maintaining the line on property taxes and getting hard hit middle-class families struck by the recession back on their feet and back to work?

Mayor Christopher Cullen who is running for the Senate against Joe Kyrillos was elected in 2000 to the Hazlet Township Committee. His focused was on preserving open space,preserving a record amount of open space and improved Hazlet’s quality of life. while stabilizing property taxes, and improving youth recreation. He served on the Planning and Zoning Boards and was liason to the Police Department, Office of Emergency Management, Recreation Commission. He is also a committed environmentalist.

Mayor Kevin M. Lavan who along with Patrick Short is running against incumbents Amy Handlin and Declan O'Scalon, served as committeeman, deputy mayor, and then mayor, during which time he increased transparency in local government, improved youth recreation, and delivered the lowest property tax increases in a generation. Prior to beginning his tenure on the Township Committee, Kevin served on the Planning and Zoning Boards as well as the Bayshore Regional Sewerage Authority.

Committeeman Patrick Short became the first Democrat elected to the Township Committee in nearly two decades. During his tenure, he voted to increase transparency, fought for fair and ethical bidding practices and against municipal tax hikes.

How much more compelling do these guys need to be? They all have a list of accomplishments which have shown that they have the voter's best interests in mind first over their own or Party's.

In the dismissal of Cullen and Short's candidacy, the APP admits that they are credible but dismisses Cullen because they perceived his stance to protect district workers and families and speaks of the frustration faced by local officials who must deal with unfunded mandates and shrinking state aid as being in "lockstep with standard Democratic positions".

In Short's case before dismissing his candidacy, they actually say that he is "...a credible, well-spoken candidate who favors reducing property taxes by increasing income taxes and expanding the sales tax to other items."

And for no apparent reason at all Kevin Lavan wasn't even considered.

Here is what a few readers of the APP had to say about the endorsements of Kyrillos, Handlin and O'Scalon:

watchdoggg
5:42 AM on October 31, 2011

Kyrillos, Handlin and O'Scanlon.

These three stand out alright, as doing the LEAST as representatives.
All three are in lockstep with the Christie administration which has done absolutely NOTHING to curtail property tax increases which continue unabated, contrary to the claims of this self serving Gov.

Kyrillos has been with the Monmouth County "boys" for how many YEARS, and what noteable legislation has HE ever passed ?? Interesting how many officials were arrested by federal officials, and more importantly, HOW MANY WERE NOT (from the republican side). I wonder if Christie made a deal with the then GOP party chairman (Kyrillos).

Handlin. How many years did she sit in with the boys from Club Monmouth, and claim she never knew what was going on.

O'Scanlon. The right hand boy to then state senator John Bennett, whom Christie (then federal prosecutor) vilified as the biggest double dipper in NJ.

These three standout alright, for all the wrong reasons to be reelected.
GRIP,,,.Get Rid Incumbent Politicians.

NOPOLITICALPARTY
6:26 AM on October 31, 2011

Three more incumbents endorsed by the Press. And come the new year the Press will be writing editorials telling us the problems we have are because voters always re-elect incumbents. They will call for new blood later, but for now they are satisfied with the same old-same old. Go figure!

gaborbacchi
10:36 AM on October 31, 2011

Totally irresponsible journalism. Declaring some candidates as "no shot at winning", "does not warrant serious consideration", and "a wasted vote" WITHOUT ANY REASONS WHY is hack at its best. Why not list the stance of each and let voters decide. Sure the APP can endorse, but to DENOUNCE without any reason is journalistic treason that is insulting to readers who are not robots that need to be told who to vote for. We are looking for where candidates stand, idiots! Tell us!

bchbum
3:31 PM on October 31, 2011

the LAST thing this district needs is MORE of the same! UNELECT kyrillos, handlin and o'scanlon!

Profiles Of The 13th District Race Online At The APP and NJ Spotlight

The both the Asbury Park Press and NJ Spotlight have race profiles online for the NJ 13th Legislative District races featuring the issues and candidates in those races.

In the 13th race for State Assembly Democrats Kevin Lavan of Hazlet and Patrick Short of Middletown are running against Republicans and current members of the State Assembly Amy Handlin 0f Middletown and Declan O'Scanlon.

This race also features two other candidates running together for the State Assembly William Lawton and Frank Cottone, as members of the Constitution Party.

In the 13th race for State Senate Democrat Christopher Cullen of Hazlet is running against current State Senator Joe Kyrillos of Middletown.

The candidates for Monmouth County Surrogate race have also been posted online at the APP website. In this race Democrat Michael Steinhorn from Rumson is looking to unseat Middletowner Rosemary Peters. The APP headline "Monmouth County surrogate race not drawing attention" is an understatement, which is a shame because Steinhorn is an extremely capable and affable guy, who deserves more attention.

Join Assembly Leader Joseph Cryan For LD13 Candidates Cullen,Lavan & Short Fundraiser

Please join

Assemblyman Joseph Cryan

The Majority Leader

for a

Wine & Cheese Reception

in honor of

Mayor Christopher Cullen
Candidate for State Senate

Mayor Kevin M. Lavan
Candidate for State Assembly

Committeeman Patrick Short
Candidate for State Assembly

Wednesday, October 5

Six o'clock to nine o'clock in the evening

Philomena's Restaurant

344 Ocean Avenue, Sea Bright

A donation of $60 per person or $100 per couple is suggested.

Hors d'oeuvres and a selection of wine will be served. Cash bar available.

Please make checks payable to:

The Committee to Elect Cullen, Lavan & Short 2011

56 Fieldcrest Way

Hazlet, New Jersey 07730

www.njbacktowork.com

Created in house. Labor donated by the Committee to Elect Cullen, Lavan & Short 2011

56 Fieldcrest Way, Hazlet, New Jersey 07730

Fundraiser to support Freeholder Amy Mallet

Please join us for a cocktail reception to support Freeholder Amy Mallet.

Amy has proven her tireless dedication in serving all the residents of Monmouth County.

With your help we can ensure her re-election.

Also meet her running mates:

Bill Shea for Freeholder and Michael Steinhorn for Surrogate.

Hosted by

Mary Mahoney & Linda Baum.

Special guests:

Patrick Short & Kevin Lavin, Candidates for Assembly District 13.

Jim Grenafege and Carol Fowler, Candidates for Middletown Township Committee.

Suggested donation:

$30 per person, $50 per couple

Friend: $50

Thursday, October 6 · 6:30pm - 8:30pm

Mahoney Residence
286 Everett Rd.
Lincroft, New Jersey

Comedy Night in Support of District 13 Democrats

Please join us for

"A Night of Laughter"

Presented by Comedy Blast Inc.

Supporting

Kevin Lavan & Patrick Short

For New Jersey State Assembly

13th Legislative District

Christopher Cullen

For New Jersey State Senate

13th Legislative District

Friday August 19th 2011

Doors open at 7pm, Showtime 8:30pm

Bayshore Senior Recreation Center

100 Main Street, Keansburg NJ

Supporter: $40

Friend: $75

Co-Host: $150

* Buffet included*

For more information or to RSVP contact:

Michael Morris at mikeinmiddletown@gmail.com

John Amberg at jamberg825@gmail.com

Make checks payable and mail to:

Committee to Elect Cullen, Lavan & Short 2011

174 Geary Drive, Middletown NJ 07748

Lavan & Short Pick Up Endorsement Of NJ AFL-CIO

Former Hazlet Mayor Kevin Lavan and former Middletown Committeeman Patrick Short, Candidates for the NJ State Assembly for the 13th Legislative district, each picked up a key endorsement from the NJ AFL-CIO labor union today at the unions endorsement conference.

Over at Blue Jersey, CWA NJ Area Director Hetty Rosenstein is quoted as stating, "Public workers and their many allies in the private sector stood together today to endorse those who stood with us this year and to deny endorsement to those who attacked collective bargaining. The majority of Democrats in NJ believe in and defend collective bargaining. They deserve a labor endorsement. A minority do not. That group should not get a labor endorsement.", in reference to all those that earned the labor endorsement.

This is the second big labor endorsement the pair has gained within the past month, back on July 18th the pair, along with NJ Senate Candidate Chris Cullen garnered the backing of Monmouth/Ocean Building Trades Council And New Jersey Building & Construction Trades Council.

Upcoming Fundraisers In Support Of Amy Mallet, Bill Shea, Christopher Cullen, Kevin Lavan & Patrick Short

The following is a list of upcoming fundraisers for Democratic Candidates Freeholder Amy Mallet, Freeholder Candidate Bill Shea and 13th Legislative District Candidates Christopher Cullen, Kevin Lavan and Patrick Short.

Each event should be a great time for those that would be interested in showing their support of the candidates by attending:

Tuesday, July 26th, 2011

Fundraiser in Support of Freeholder Amy Mallet

6:30-8:30pm
Home of Sean Byrnes, 880 West Front Street, Red Bank, New Jersey 07701
For more information or to RSVP:

email info@amymallet.com


Sunday, July 31st, 2011

Haskell Invitational Fundraiser in support of Bill Shea for Freeholder

Monmouth Park, Oceanport, New Jersey
$65/supporter, $120/sponsor, $250/gold sponsor

Please make checks payable to:

Friends of Bill Shea for Freeholder, P.O. Box 155, Hazlet, New Jersey 07730

Please RSVP to:

Maryellen Principe at 732.888.1862

Tuesday, August 2nd, 2011

Labor Leaders of the 13th District Reception In support of

Kevin Lavan, Patrick Short and Chris Cullen

7-9pm
Assaggini di Roma

3253 Highway 35 North, Hazlet NJ 07730

RSVP to Joe Caliendo at 732.671.0870

Monday, August 8th, 2011

Golf outing in Support of Bill Shea for Freeholder

11am
Eagle Oaks Golf and Country Club, 20 Shore Oak Drive, Farmingdale, NJ 07727

$250/guest, $500/sponsor, $1,000/silver sponsor and $2,500 gold sponsor

$50 guest dinner with paying golf participant, $75 for dinner only (no golf)

Please RSVP or for more info call:

Ron Principe at 732.888.1862

email ronprincipe@gmail.com or votebillshea@gmail.com

Thursday, August 11th, 2011

Fashion Show in support of Bill Shea for Freeholder

Lakeside Manor, Route 36, Hazlet, New Jersey 07730
$40/supporter, $80/sponsor, $150/gold sponsor

RSVP to Maryellen Principe at 732.888.1862

Please make checks payable to:

Friends of Bill Shea for Freeholder, P.O. Box 155, Hazlet, New Jersey 07730

Friday, August 19th, 2011

A Night of Comedy supporting Kevin Lavan, Patrick Short and Christopher Cullen for 13th Legislative District

7-11pm
Bayshore Senior Recreation Center

100 Main Street

Keansburg, New Jersey

$40/supporter, $75/friend and $150/co-host

Buffet included

RSVP to:

John Amberg @ jamberg825@gmail.com or 732-291-4272

Cullen, Lavan & Short Pick Up Endorsements of Monmouth/Ocean Building Trades Council And New Jersey Building & Construction Trades Council

Democratic Candidates in the NJ's 13th Legislative District Christopher Cullen, Kevin Lavan and Patrick Short, have received two important endorsements of support from labor unions representing building trade workers.

The three have received endorsements from both the Monmouth/Ocean Building Trades Council and the New Jersey Building & Construction Trades Council (AFL-CIO).

In his letter of endorsement William T. Mullen, President of the New Jersey Building & Construction Trades Council, states:

"... Our organization represents over 150,000 Building & Construction trade workers and families who will receive communications stating your pro-building trades positions and our support for your election. We will also work to ensure that targeted races will receive manpower and financial support needed to prove successful.

New Jersey State Building & Construction Trades Council stands proudly with you in your support of new growth in New Jersey business and the improvement of our citizen's welfare by the means of fair wages, quality health care and secure retirements."...

Former Hazlet Mayor Christopher Cullen is running against Joe Kyrillos for NJ Senate while another former Hazlet Mayor Kevin Lavan and former Middletown Committeeman Patrick Short, will be seeking to unseat incumbants Amy Handlin and Declan O'Scanlon for positions in the NJ State Assembly.

Donate To The Campaigns Of Kevin Lavan and Patrick Short Before June 20th Fund Drive Ends and Volunteer Your Help

Former Middletown Committeeman Patrick Short is running for NJ State Assembly along with the former Mayor of Hazlet Kevin Lavin. The two are up against an entrenched Republican opposition and need everyone's help.

They are each committed to representing the people in the 13th District, especially the working middle class and seniors who live on a fixed income. They guarantee your voices will be heard in the Assembly if elected.

That is why it is so important that they raise enough funds to wage an effective campaign this November. They are currently in the middle of a very important fund raising drive that ends on June 20th. The results of this fund drive will be an early indication to those on the state level that Short and Lavan will be credible candidates and qualify them for matching funds.

Donations of any amount that you can spare are appreciated,donations of $5, $10, $20, $50 or more will go a long way and be put to good use in order to get the message out about who Patrick and Kevin are and how they can best represent the people of the 13th Legislative district, ensuring that the voices of the Northern Monmouth Bayshore and the rest of the 13th district is heard down in Trenton.

If you can not afford to donate money but would like to volunteer your time to the campaign,send a letter to the address below and let them know you are available to give in other ways, like phone banking, addressing envelopes or canvassing.

Any little bit helps.

Send donations or offers of support to:

Committee to Elect Cullen, Lavan & Short 2011
56 Fieldcrest Way
Hazlet, New Jersey 07730

Write-In Support Needed for Christopher Cullen, Democratic Candidate For NJ State Senate District 13, During Tuesday's Primary Election

If you have received your Primary ballots for the 13th District (Bayshore area) you'll notice something missing - The Democratic candidate for State Senate Candidate, CHRISTOPHER CULLEN is missing. Democrats needs to write in Chris's name when you go to vote. This will ensure that he appears on the ballot in November.

If you are unsure how to do this ask your local poll worker, that is what they are there for and they would be more than happy to explain how to do it.

Due to the lateness and confusion surrounding the filing deadline for candidates this year as a result of redistricting, Christopher Cullen had an issue with his Candidate petition before the filing deadline and did not receive enough valid signatures.

Therefore Cullen needs our help! Please do not forget to write-in CHRISTOPHER CULLEN on Tuesday, June 7th at the polls or on your absentee ballot.

Cullen, Lavan & Short Begin Fight for New Jersey's Thirteenth Legislative District

MONMOUTH COUNTY - On Monday, Democrats Christopher Cullen, Kevin M. Lavan and Patrick Short announced their intention to seek seats in the newly configured Thirteenth Legislative District. The three former elected officials will focus on protecting the environment, creating jobs, and reforming state government.

Mr. Cullen, who served previously as Mayor of Hazlet Township, will run as a write-in candidate in the June 7 Democratic primary for the chance to challenge State Senator Joseph Kyrillos (R-Middletown). He cited the Christie Administration's inaction on key environmental issues -- and the voters need for a choice -- as his reason for challenging the longtime lawmaker.

"The people of the Thirteenth Legislative District deserve a conversation about the future of our communities," said Mr. Cullen. "I hope my fellow Democrats will consider writing me in so I can have that conversation with Senator Kyrillos."
Mayor Cullen is a committed environmentalist. He said, "As Mayor, I worked with Democrats and Republicans alike to preserve thousands of acres of open space. As Senator, I'll go to Trenton to make sure that what remains of our woodlands and beaches don't give way to shopping centers and traffic jams."

Mr. Lavan and Mr. Short are seeking the two State Assembly seats currently held by Amy Handlin (R-Middletown) and Declan O'Scanlon (R-Little Silver). They believe the Thirteenth District deserves representatives who will fight for middle class families.

"It's time someone stood up for middle class families," said Mr. Lavan, also a former Mayor of Hazlet Township. "There are too many people out of work. Too many homes are in foreclosure. We need action to spur the economy and put people back to work."

Mr. Short, who during his tenure on the Middletown Township Committee fought for responsible budgeting and greater transparency, believes Mayor Lavan and he have the unique experience and skills to reform the way Trenton does business.

"Kevin and I were elected as a result of Operation Bid Rig," said Mr. Short. "Our involvement in public service was borne out of a desire to clean up our towns and restore the people's faith in local government. Ethics reform and greater transparency in state government will be among our top priorities when we head to the Assembly."

Mayor Cullen served on the Hazlet Township Committee from 2001-2004.
During that time, he preserved record amounts of open space. He currently works as facilities maintenance manager for the Marine Academy of Science and Technology at Sandy Hook.

Mayor Lavan was elected to fill the seat of disgraced Republican Mayor Paul Coughlin in 2005. A Hiring Agent for New York Shipping, during his time in office he delivered the lowest municipal tax increases in a decade.

Committeeman Short graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and retired from the U.S. Army as a Lieutenant Colonel. On the Middletown Township Committee he opposed runaway borrowing and offered a series of reforms that resulted in increased transparency and greater responsibility to taxpayers.

The new Thirteenth Legislative District comprises Aberdeen, Atlantic Highlands, Fair Haven, Hazlet, Highlands, Holmdel, Keansburg, Keyport, Little Silver, Marlboro, Middletown, Monmouth Beach, Oceanport, Rumson, Sea Bright, and Union Beach.

Monmouth Candidates Picked During Today's Convention

Earlier today the Monmouth County Democrats held their annual "mini-convention" at Carpenter's Hall in Red Bank, unfortunately I couldn't be in attendance because of my work schedule but based on the outcome, I didn't miss any surprises.

I spent the past few days reaching out and making phone calls to those at the County and a few candidates that I had known were running. They gave me a pretty good picture of those that had intended to seek office. I agreed not to post anything here on the blog prematurely due to the fact that many of the candidates hadn't really had enough time to consider their chances with the newly drawn legislative districts and there was a chance that others would step forward this morning. But after talking to a few people after the convention, I was informed that did not happen. All candidates ran unopposed which was seen as a sign of party unity.

Those seeking office this year for the Monmouth County Dems are:

Bill Shea, Howell - Monmouth County Freeholder

Michael Steinhorn, Rumson - Monmouth County Surrogate

Ray Santiago , Freehold - 11th District State Senate

Marilyn Schlossbach, Asbury Park - 11th District State Assembly

Vin Gopal, Long Branch - 11th District State Assembly

Robert Brown, Old Bridge - 12th District State Senate

Catherine Tinney-Rome, Old Bride - 12th District State Assembly

Christopher Cullen, Hazlet - 13th District State Senate

Kevin Lavan, Hazlet - 13th District State Assembly

Patrick Short, Middletown - 13th District State Assemly

Steve Morlino, Howell - 30th Distrcit State Senate

In the 12th District, I was told by Senate candidate Robert Brown Tuesday night, that the Monmouth Democrats would defer endorsements of candidates to the other counties in the district and that is exactly what happened.

I was told that the same would hold true in the 30th District after Morlino was chosen to be the Democratic Challenger in that race.

Speaking with Freeholder Amy Mallet last night, she was extremely happy with her choice of running mate Bill Shea, she couldn't say enough good things about him. Freeholder Mallet told me that she interviewed many potential running mates, but Bill Shea stood out.

Freeholder Mallet told me that Shea was a new comer to politics but he was very intelligent, extremely likable and energetic. Bill Shea will be retiring in June from the NJ State Troopers, where he is a highly respected officer who has been injured numerous times in the line of duty, he is seen as a no-nonsense type of guy.

Talking to Vin Gopal Thursday night, he mentioned Marilyn Schlossbach was to be his running mate for the 11th District Assembly. He told me that she was a chef/restaurateur from Asbury Park, who has been involved in many philanthropic causes and is well liked and known by many throughout the shore area.

Democrats Byrnes & Mahoney Lose In Middletown;Township Committee Will Revert Back To 5-0 Super Majority

It was a somber night as district results started rolling in to the Democratic Headquarters at the Leonardo American Legion, it was evident early on that it wasn't going to be a good night for Democratic Committeeman Sean Byrnes or his running mate Mary Mahoney. From the moment that the first few districts started reporting in, the numbers didn't look good. Byrnes and Mahoney only managed to capture 6 out of 46 districts and gave their concession speeches shortly after 9pm.

It was a real disappointment to many in the room after it seemed that so much of what transpired during this election season in Middletown, was leaning in the Democrats favor. From the turf field debacle in Lincroft, to the 13.87% increase to the municipal tax rate, people in town were angry at the leadership of Gerry Scharfenberger and his GOP majority, who seem to take residents for granted.

With their victory yesterday, the Middletown Township Committee will once again revert back to the 5-0 Republican super majority that it had enjoyed for nearly 20 years before Patrick Short was elected in 2006 and then Sean Byrnes in 2007.

What will that mean for residents in Middletown? It will mean less transparency and more decisions being made behind closed doors with little or no public discussion, much like it was previous to Short's election.

Flooding issues in Port Monmouth and Leonardo will be once again placed on the back burner due to budget and cost concerns which means relief for residents in those areas will have to wait another 20 years for solutions and those that wish to see Township Committee meetings televised on the Township's public access cable channels are out of luck, it will never happen.

Township engineering and legal fees will continue to increase because the Majority will continue to appoint the same firms to represent the Township without first competitively bidding those services out to lower costs, like Sean Byrnes has advocated for.

The local environment is also at risk. If Gerry Scharfenberger gets his way thousands of metric tons of carcinogenic and arsenic laced spoils will be dredged and from the bottom of Shadow Lake and burried in Stevenson Park against NJDEP wishes, instead of investigating alternative solutions like what may be proposed by the Army Corps of Engineers, which now has as part of their mission, responibilities over the ecosytem.

Middletown residents deserve the type of government that they voted for, unfortunately those that they voted for will not always have the best interests of all the residents in mind. That's why I and others, will continue to act as watchdogs over those that feel that Middletown is her to serve them as opposed to the other way around.