Sue Fulton for Monmouth County Freeholder

Sue Fulton is a 1980 graduate of West Point, a member of the Academy's first class to admit women. She commissioned in the Army as a signal officer, serving as both a platoon leader and company commander in Germany before receiving an honorable discharge at the rank of Captain. Sue currently serves on the prestigious West Point Board of Visitors, appointed by President Obama with the ranks of numerous Senators and Congress Members.

Sue Fulton is running for Monmouth County Freeholder with Belmar Mayor, Matt Doherty.

CBS News Superstorm Sandy in Belmar Coverage / Matt Doherty for Monmouth County Freeholder

This 2012 video from CBS News documenting the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy and the recovery efforts put forth by Belmar Mayor, Matt Doherty, is one of the best reasons I can think of to be voting him on November 8th for Monmouth County Freeholder.

He was a true leader for the residents of Belmar then (and now) and will be for the residents on Monmouth County once elected.




If you haven't seen Doherty's recent campaign commericals which have been running on various cable channels, you can do so below.


Matt Doherty for Monmouth County Freeholder

LVGA Candidates NIght, Tuesday Oct. 21th. 7pm - 9pm

If you would like to submit a question in advance to the candidates you can do so by leaving your question on the online spreadsheet that the LVGA has setup for the evening >>> HERE

FROELICH: County purchasing still murky, post-Birdsall

Democratic Monmouth County Candidate for Freeholder, Brian Froelich, wrote an Op-Ed that appeared in the Asbury Park Press over the weekend.

While reading Froelich's Op-Ed, keep in mind (as a friend pointed out) that this is the same Freeholder Board that repealed strong county level pay-to-play restrictions because they were 'too confusing' and didn't complement weaker state level restrictions. Shortly thereafter there is the Brookdale College scandal and the Birdsall debacle, with Birdsall being a common element in both scandals. Time to bring ethics back into goverment and the political process in Monmouth County.

From the APP:

Each of the Monmouth County Republican freeholders received campaign contributions donated illegally by the Birdsall Engineering Group that were designed to influence the county purchasing process. But the freeholders and their administrators are in constant refrain that such corruption doesn’t really affect the purchasing process.

In harmonic chorus, Freeholder Thomas Arnone says the bidding and purchasing process is “independent from the freeholders,” County Counsel Andrea Bazer says the purchasing department and process is “above reproach,” and Purchasing Director Gerri Popkin says there is no tie-in between political fundraising and purchasing.

But Chris Christie’s comment when he was U.S. Attorney that political corruption in Monmouth County was both wide and deep may ring more true. Facts indicate that Monmouth County purchasing may be neither independent, beyond reproach or disconnected from political fundraising.

While Arnone (of Neptune City) declares independence, the Monmouth County Fair and Open Process resolution indicates that purchasing is not independent and that the freeholders have control and “sole discretion” over county purchasing processes.
For example, bids for some services (e.g., engineering) often are for one year but can be renewed annually for an additional two years without bidding. In fact, the New Jersey Institute of Government Attorneys stated “the definition of the ‘fair and open process’ is so ambiguous as to be meaningless.”

Meanwhile, numerous vendor complaints about county purchasing procedures indicate that the process may be well within the realm of reproach. For example, recently various vendors complained that the purchasing department was using distributor, rather than manufacturer, part numbers; was purchasing trucks that don’t meet U.S. emissions standards; was specifying 30-day delivery on custom trucks; and that they should hold important pre-bid meetings (a common industry practice).

At a recent meeting, a vendor complained about several problems he has had with purchasing, including the department not bidding certain items, mislabeling items, etc.
Other facts indicate that the connection between political fundraising and purchasing may be longstanding as well as deep. Popkin has been Monmouth County purchasing director for 26 years, with responsibility for purchasing $100 million in goods and services annually. She also is a longtime, active and important Republican political operative.
Popkin (also from Neptune City) was the Monmouth County Republican campaign coordinator (for 23 years), the Monmouth County GOP secretary, the Neptune City GOP municipal chairwoman, and is the current vice president of the Monmouth County Affiliated Republican Club.

Popkin even advertises that she holds some of these political positions as well as her purchasing position, thus making a direct and visual connection between purchasing and political fundraising. State ethics rules prohibit a state official from using his or her official title for the purpose of fundraising for, or promotion of, a private organization.
As a matter of minimum and sound business practice, Popkin should be rotated out of such a highly sensitive county purchasing position while maintaining such a high profile political position.

Monmouth County Democratic Candidates Look to Unseat Incumbents for Freeholder, Sheriff

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:


Monmouth County Democratic Sheriff candidate Ruben Scolavino and Freeholder candidates
Brian Froelich and Larry Luttrell officially begin their campaigns today after winning their respective
primaries on Tuesday.

Ruben Scolavino, 37, is an attorney and former prosecutor who says the problem with the current Monmouth County Sheriff’s department is wasteful spending. “Taxpayers spend millions every year on financial mismanagement in the Sheriff’s Department. When elected Sheriff I will conduct an operational audit to eliminate wasteful spending and identify cost-savings.”

Brian Froelich, 67 from Spring Lake, is a successful business executive who feels the Monmouth CountyFreeholder Board has participated in a number of unethical practices over the past several years. “After gaining control of the Freeholder Board in 2010, the incumbent Freeholders repealed the Ethics resolution and went on to award their friends millions of dollars in contracts and sweetheart deals” said Froelich. “It’s time to put an end to this corruption and start looking out for the taxpayers.”

Larry Luttrell, 41, is an attorney and former prosecutor from Holmdel who says to look at the Andrew Lucas land deal as an example of corruption. “The Freeholders granted a $1.15 million payday to their political crony Andrew Lucas, disguised as farmland preservation. This type of corrupt, old-fashioned patronage needs to be stopped.”

Monmouth Dem Freeholder Candidates Slam GOP Board

MANALAPAN - Democratic Candidates for Monmouth County Freeholder, Brian Froelich and Larry Luttrell, slammed the Republican Freeholder Board's decision to give almost 1.2 million taxpayer dollars away to a local GOP party boss.

“Once again, the all-Republican monopoly on the Freeholder Board has exercised its power against the interests of Monmouth County residents," said Froelich. "This time, the Freeholders granted a $1.15 million-dollar payday to one of their own in the guise of 'farmland preservation.' Whether it is preservation bonuses, pension privileges, or old-fashioned patronage, this Board continues to remind us that absolute power corrupts absolutely."

"Clearly, there is an apparent conflict of interest with this land deal," added Luttrell, a former prosecutor. "This November, Monmouth County residents will have a chance to elect fair-minded watchdogs that will restrain this biased and unbalanced Freeholder Board. Shame on Freeholder Serena DiMaso for voting to give taxpayer money away to one of her political cronies. This needs to change in November.”

General election for Monmouth County Freeholder takes place Tuesday, November 5th.

Bill Shea For Monmouth County Freeholder

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Oct 28, 2011

MONMOUTH COUNTY, NJ – Howell resident and former New Jersey State Trooper Bill Shea is running for the Democratic position of Monmouth County Freeholder alongside Surrogate hopeful Michael Steinhorn and Freeholder encumbent Amy Mallet.

Shea states that he will bring a new energy and viewpoint to the Board of Chosen Freeholders, showing in-office fiscal responsibility while working to stimulate Monmouth County job growth.

“My career as a state trooper in New Jersey has been exceptionally rewarding and I will treasure all of the fine men and women I have befriended while serving New Jersey,” says Shea. “I take with me the experience and confidence the State Police has taught me and look forward to serving the State of New Jersey as a Monmouth County Freeholder.”

Shea served the people as a New Jersey State Trooper for ten years as a member of the Field Operations and Homeland Security Sections. His career ended when the Division of Law and Public Safety involuntarily retired him due to multiple injuries sustained during his career. Shea graduated from Keansburg High School and received his Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice from Monmouth University, later continuing to earn his Masters Degree in Administrative Science from Fairleigh Dickinson. Shea is supported by his loving wife Lori, a Certified Athletic Trainer at Lincoln High School in Jersey City.

The Board of Chosen Freeholders is empowered with a wide scope of authority mandated by the State of New Jersey. The board wears many hats and has legislative and executive functions including oversight and regulation of county property and finances. This entails three hundred and eighty miles of county roads, one thousand bridges, and maintenance of more that 14,500 acres of county parks.

Shea has been endorsed for Monmouth County Freeholder by the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 30,The Monmouth and Ocean Counties Central Labor Council, The Monmouth County Education Association in conjunction with N.J.E.A. and 6th District Congressman Frank Pallone.

For more information visit www.votebillshea.com.

Getting to know Freeholder Candidate Janice Venables

The Monmouth Dems recently posted a video on Youtube introducing Freeholder Candidate Janice Venables. The Facebook announcement of the video has this to say about her:

"Councilwoman Janice Venables has a strong record as a fiscal conservative in the Borough of Spring Lake. She is ready to bring her record to Monmouth County as your next freeholder. Get to know Freeholder Candidate Janice Venables!"

FREEHOLDER CANDIDATES SUGGEST MEASURES TO PRESERVE AND IMPROVE THE HORSE RACING INDUSTRY IN MONMOUTH COUNTY

For Immediate Release: August 10, 2010
Press Contact: Shane Derris (732) 739 8888 or Dems.Monmouth@gmail.com

Freeholder Candidates John D’Amico and Janice Venables are extremely disappointed with the recent findings of the Governor's Advisory Commission on NJ Gaming, Sports and Entertainment and the Governor's strong support for its suggestions. Freeholder D’Amico said, “Closure of Monmouth Park on top of the closure of Fort Monmouth would devastate the economy and quality of life of Monmouth County. This year’s successful meet should motivate us to sustain and improve the racetrack, not shut it down.”

Venables, a Spring Lake Councilwoman, said “A dismantled horse racing industry would threaten as many as 13,000 jobs and hundreds of millions of dollars of taxable revenue that the state and municipalities depend upon to pay for essential services. Over the last several years, the better horses and jockeys have gravitated to other states that allow slot machines and can offer greater prizes because of increased revenue and attendance. It is time New Jersey reads the writing on the wall. We must bring slot machines to the racetracks or face the destruction of the industry in the entire state. The increased revenue garnered by “racinos” in surrounding states has saved numerous racetracks from closing their doors, and most professionals agree this is the biggest hurdle facing the industry. We call upon the Governor and the Legislature to take the necessary steps to place the “racino” option on the ballot in November so that the racing industry can join the Atlantic City casinos as a major contributor to taxpayer relief, education, and programs for senior citizens.”

Pending the holding of a ballot referendum, D’Amico and Venables suggest that the following steps be taken: (1) Renewal of the annual casino revenue supplement of $30 million for the racing industry; (2) A substantial increase in the number of off-track wagering facilities pursuant to the 2001 authorizing legislation; (3) Possible purchase from the Meadowlands Authority of the development rights to the Monmouth Park property with the stipulation that the funds be used to support the racing industry; and (4) Stronger measures to support the Standard Bred Racing Industry.

Venables said, “We don't object to the sale of the facilities to private investors, but they won't want to buy the race tracks if they cannot make any money. The Governor seems to have decided that the Atlantic City casinos are more important than the horse racing industry and its supporting infrastructure throughout the state. Yet the report to the Governor states, for example, that 2,100 slots at the Meadowlands would cost Atlantic City gaming revenue a mere .01% loss. This minor drop in Atlantic City revenue could save New Jersey’s and Monmouth County's horse racing industry.”

D’Amico observed that “at a time when Monmouth County is suffering from already excessive suburban sprawl and traffic congestion, we can ill afford to lose the thousands of beautiful acres dedicated to horse racing and its supporting industries. Preservation of the horse racing industry in Monmouth County is not only critical to the economy but is also essential to the preservation of the quality of life we have come to cherish and enjoy.”

Vincent Solomeno for Freeholder: My statement from the hearing: Why I oppose the Monmouth County budget.

Vincent Solomeno, Candidate For Monmouth County Freeholder, attended the March 9th 2010 public hearing on the proposed Monmouth County Budget at the Eastern Branch of the Monmouth County Library in Shrewsbury.

Solomeno read into the record the following statement as to why he opposes the proposed budget that the Freeholders have offer-up. The statement can also be found at his facebook site:

Good evening, my name is Vincent Solomeno, and I’m a property taxpayer from Hazlet. I first want to thank the professional staff for the time spent preparing this budget proposal.

That said, members of the Board, it is my hope that you reject this proposal. Monmouth County residents simply can’t afford this level of spending. It’s time to go back to the drawing board and produce a budget with significant savings.

This is no normal time—the worst economy in generations. Clearly, the status quo is unacceptable.

Yet as I read the budget proposal, a number of areas go unaddressed—areas that if cut can result in significant savings for taxpayers. Unfortunately, this budget is more of the same, when that’s exactly what we can’t afford.

This budget does not consider the potential savings of combining the purchasing departments of the county and the parks system—a redundancy which costs taxpayers money.

This budget does not consider the savings to be had by combining our two motor pools.

And at a time when many private-sector workers are seeing their salaries cut or their wages frozen, this budget does not consider the savings to be had by freezing the salaries of non-contractual personnel earning over $100,000.

The important question I hear from my neighbors is, “Why?”

Why doesn’t this budget end the practice of awarding no-bid contracts for professional services? Doing so would increase efficiency, guarantee transparency, and save taxpayer dollars.

Why doesn’t this budget honor the intent of the cap law? Monmouth County families know it’s time to do more with less. You wouldn’t hand a credit card to a shopaholic, so why, in these economic times, should the county spend significantly above the cap, when all it means for residents is higher taxes and more spending?

I understand the enormity of the task before you. We may disagree over specific priorities, but we all know—just like Monmouth county families know—that in this time of stagnating wages, layoffs, and rising property taxes, it’s time to make tough choices.

This budget doesn’t make those tough choices. We don’t live in a fairy tale, and we can’t wish our problems away. We simply can’t afford tax increases year after year. Enough is enough.

Monmouth County families are struggling. We owe it to them to cut this bloated budget and bring them real property tax relief. I hope you have the courage to do just that.

Solomeno, Monmouth County and Pancakes, Mmm... Perfect Together

Vincent Solomeno, Democratic Candidate for Monmouth County Freeholder, sent me the following note attacked with a video from a pancake breakfast fundraiser that he held last Saturday. He asked me if I would post it here on the blog and I was more than happy to do so.

Since deciding to run for Monmouth County Freeholder, I’ve visited with elected officials, party leaders, and private citizens to hear their ideas and concerns. In communities from Matawan to Brielle and Allentown to Oceanport, I’m consistently hearing that people have lost faith in government’s ability to solve the public policy challenges that grow more pressing with each passing day. I am seeking the nomination for Freeholder because I believe we can do better. We can restore trust in government by continuing the change begun in 2009 and demonstrating through our actions, not just our words, that Monmouth Democrats are serious about reforming the way Freehold does business.

I am optimistic about the future of Monmouth County and it will be my honor to be part of an effort that translates that optimism into real results. Right now, I'm working to build momentum for a grassroots campaign that involves citizens of all stripes. I am grateful to the Hazlet and Union Beach Democratic Clubs, who threw a pancake breakfast for me last Saturday. We turned out 80 people, raised some money, and demonstrated that politics does not have to be consigned to the professionals. I hope to hold similar events in other parts of Monmouth in the weeks ahead, but in the mean time, I encourage you to check out a video of my remarks recorded by a supporter and posted to YouTube.

Kind regards,

Vincent Solomeno

P.S. If you haven't already, please check out my web site -
www.vincentsolomeno.com

You can also connect with Vincent Solomeno by becoming a Facebook Fan or by following him on Twitter

Solomeno For Freeholder: Why I'm Running

Like so many others, I was disappointed with the outcome of the election last November. While the implications of that day have yet to fully reveal themselves, it is clear to me that this moment demands increased citizen involvement in the public policy process. In short, it's time to engage.

I'm running for Monmouth County Freeholder because I believe we can do better. Since November, I've visited with elected officials, party leaders, and private citizens to hear their ideas and concerns. They share my belief that we can regain our Democratic majority on the Freeholder Board through an energetic grassroots campaign that focuses on stabilizing property taxes, preserving open space, and aggressively pursuing opportunities to bring new businesses - and the jobs that come with them - to Monmouth County.

My decision to pursue the nomination is the first step on a road that I hope will lead to victory come November. I intend to build a campaign of people, not power brokers. A campaign defined not by sound bites, but substantive ideas. And perhaps most importantly, this will not be a campaign defined by one person, but by citizens joined together in the pursuit of a common goal: a green, safe, and affordable Monmouth County.

As I've said to those I've spoken with in the short time since taking this decision, I have no illusion about the many challenges that lay ahead. Yet the obstacles I face in the coming campaign are nothing compared to those facing Monmouth County and our fifty-three municipalities. Quite literally, we can no longer afford the status quo. Indeed, I firmly believe that the present circumstances requires Democrats, Republicans, and independents alike to set aside petty differences, roll up our sleeves, and work together for the public good.

I am optimistic about the future of Monmouth County and it will be my honor to run alongside Judge John D'Amico in an effort that translates that optimism into real results. In the mean time, I encourage you to keep me on my toes. Let me know what I'm doing right, what you think I can be doing better, and please be sure to visit my web site at www.vincentsolomeno.com.

Thank you.

in Middletown Vote Sean Brynes and Patrick Short For Integrity, Ingenuity, Responsibility and Commitment

Election day in Middletown is tomorrow, just like it is throughout the state. Middletown residents have a great opportunity to elect two well qualified, upstanding individuals and fellow Middletowner into office tomorrow, those individuals are Sean Byrnes and Patrick Short.

Each have served Middletown well over the past two and a half years and it is time for their good work to continue. In Byrnes's case that means electing him the Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders, where he can continue to work for more open and transparent government and keep a watchful eye over county finances just as he has done here in Middletown.

In the case of Patrick Short, no one could have more integrity,ingenuity,responsibility or commitment than he.

Patrick Short hasn't made any friends down at Town Hall and that is a good thing! He has always looked out for the residents interests and never his own or party's. He lead the fight to have resolutions and ordinances posted on the township website prior to public meeting, he fought to eliminated health benefits for part-time elected and appointed officials in Middletown and he has lead the fight in the alleviation of the flooding problem in the Port Monmouth section of town. And it should be noted that Short does not collect a salary, health benefits or is entered into the pension system, he is not compensated in any way for his service. Short very well may be the only elected official in the state that can boast of such a claim!

Both men have served our country well, Byrnes as a member of the US Coast Guard for 22 years retiring with the rank Commander and Short, who as a West Point graduated, served in the US Army retiring as a Lt. Colonel.

Both their backgrounds in management have proven invaluable in keeping taxes down, neither have ever voted for a tax increase while their Republican colleagues have increased taxes by 16% over the last 4 years.

Because of their opposition to township bonding over the past two years Middletown's debt peaked at $85 million and is now on a downward slope of approx. $65 million.

This fact alone warrents your vote, I know it does mine. So when you enter that voting booth tomorrow remember what Sean Byrnes and Patrick Short have ment to our commuintiy over the past three years and vote for them: Byrnes for Freeholder and Short for Township Committee.

Remember When Voting For Monmouth County Freeholder:Byrnes Best Bet For Freeholder

When residents of Monmouth County enter the voting booths tomorrow remember one thing before you pull that lever to vote for Freeholder: Byrnes Best Bet For Freeholder.

That was the headline of the Oct.18th editorial in the Asbury Park Press in which the APP endorsed Byrnes for Freeholder over last years retreat John Curley.

For those who would like to read again what the APP said about Sean Byrnes in it's endorsmen, I've re-posted the editorial below:

Monmouth County voters are fortunate to have three well-qualified, civic-minded candidates to choose from in this year's election for an open seat on the Board of Freeholders. But Democrat Sean Byrnes' passion for cutting government spending and increasing transparency separate him from the field.

Byrnes, Republican John Curley and Independent Stan Rosenthal are seeking the seat being vacated by Freeholder Director Barbara McMorrow, who opted not to seek re-election this year, citing health reasons. Curley, vice president of an auto dealership and a former Red Bank councilman, was narrowly defeated by Democrat Amy Mallet in last year's election.

Byrnes, an attorney and Middletown township committeeman, is bright, articulate and has an uncommon grasp of issues affecting Monmouth County residents.

His review of the county budget has enabled him to pinpoint departments "ripe for cutting," and he has identified specific positions within departments that have more personnel than needed to function well. He says he will push for across-the-board 10 percent budget cuts, as well as directing some department heads to find further cuts.

A proponent of openness in government, Byrnes said he would make sure all county budget data and other information of interest to residents would be posted online. He lamented the apathy he has seen about county government, and said having more information easily available would encourage residents to get involved and provide input on ways to make government more efficient and responsive.

Byrnes' extensive volunteer and professional background have given him hands-on budget and management experience that would serve him well on the freeholder board.

A private-practice attorney with no public contracts, Byrnes has served on the Red Bank Board of Education and the boards of directors for the Community YMCA, the Parker Clinic and the Charter School. A graduate of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, he served in the Coast Guard for 22 years before recently retiring as a commander.

Control of the freeholder board, now in the hands of the Democrats after decades of all-Republican membership, is again on the line in this election. Curley raised concerns that a Democratic majority on the board would enable the state party leadership to gain control over jobs and contracts in Monmouth County.

But Byrnes does not appear to be beholden to his party's political bosses. In fact, he has been critical of some of the patronage appointments and contracts handed out with little or no oversight during the past year. Byrnes said he was pleased with the current freeholder board's decisions to have in-house legal and engineering services and "doing away with a system that allowed handouts."

In Red Bank, Curley successfully fought machine politics and helped keep a helipad, a patronage-job visitors center and a solid waste station from being built in the borough.

Rosenthal, a retired financial analyst with Merrill Lynch, has been active with several volunteer programs and is passionate about helping people in need, especially during these tough economic times. He says his presence on the freeholder board would make it truly bipartisan, and he promised greater oversight in the budget process.

Curley and Rosenthal both have strong credentials. But Byrnes is exceptional, the best choice in a field of three worthy candidates.

Support Sean Byrnes For Monmouth County Freeholder

For readers of this blog who do not know, I write a column that appears in the Monitor Newspapers called "Take it from me". I have contributed several articles to the Monitor over the past few months, the lastest is in this weeks special election coverage edition and can be read below. It is my take on why you should elect Middletown Committeeman Sean F. Byrnes the next Monmouth County Freeholder.

I hope you find it interesting and informative enough to persaude your vote towards Sean Byrnes this coming Tuesday, Nov. 3rd :

With so much attention being paid to this year’s NJ Governors race between Jon Corzine and Chris Christie, other important races for political office throughout the state are being overshadowed, ignored and all but forgotten about by all except those who are seeking office. One such race happens to be for Monmouth County Freeholder.

In 2006, Barbara McMorrow was able to break the stranglehold that Republicans held in the county by becoming the first Democrat elected to the Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders in over 20 years. Those of John D’Amico and Amy Mallet followed her election in 2007 & 2008, which turned over control of the county to democrats for the first time since 1986.

It looked as if Monmouth County would remain a “Blue” county for the foreseeable future, McMorrow was extremely popular and she was up for re-election this year. Republicans throughout the county did not want to run against her, due in part to her popularity. Then came news in late March that Freeholder McMorrow would not seek re-election this year due to illness. Democratic hearts sank while Republican hopes at recapturing the county swelled: the search for viable candidates on both sides started in earnest.

The best that the Monmouth GOP could come up with was republican retread John Curley, who lost last year’s election to Amy Mallet and who, as a councilman in Red Bank, resigned suddenly to move to Middletown citing high property taxes in Red Bank as one of his reasons.

Monmouth County Democrats chose a fresh, young face in Middletown’s Sean F. Byrnes to run against John Curley. And, as far as I’m concerned they made an excellent choice.

Byrnes grew up in Red Bank and graduated from Red Bank Regional High School before attending the US Coast Guard Academy, where he graduated cum laude with a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Government. He retired from the Coast Guard after 22 years of service to our country as a Commander. While serving in the Coast Guard, Sean Byrnes went to night school and earned his Law Degree from Georgetown University.

Sean Byrnes has always had a strong believed in public service and throughout his life has placed a high priority on it. He has served as a member of the Red Bank board of education, Red Bank River Center and as a founding Board Trustee with the Parker Clinic. He served five years as Chairman of the Board of the Red Bank Branch of the YMCA, and two years as their Chief Volunteer Officer. He also serves as a minister and lector at the Church of St. Leo the Great, Lincroft.

In 2007, Sean garnered broad bipartisan support when he was elected to the Middletown Township Committee. In doing so, he became only the second Democratic elected in 18 years.

Since his election, Sean has focused on transparency in government, fiscal accountability and improved municipal governance. He drafted and secured passage of a resolution requiring all resolutions and ordinances to be posted on the Township website in advance of public meetings. He also voted against an ordinance that placed restrictions on the videotaping of Township meetings. Byrnes has repeatedly proposed resolutions to create a Finance Committee to begin the budget process well in advance of budget approval. And, introduced an ordinance to eliminate health benefits to Sewerage Authority Commissioners. To improve municipal governance in Middletown, Sean secured passage of a resolution establishing a Strategic Planning Committee and a Committee to implement the recently completed Recreation Master Plan.

Sean Byrnes is clearly the most qualified and best candidate to succeed Barbra McMorrow for Freeholder. His years of public service to our country, as well as our community, has prepared him well to represent the residents of Monmouth County as our next Freeholder.

Middletown’s loss will be Monmouth County’s gain.

If anyone is interested in receiving the Monitor Newspaper free by mail, you can email your information to monitornewpapers@gmail.com

Asbury Park Press Endorses Byrnes For Monmouth County Freeholder

In this morning's editorial section of the Asbury Park Press, the paper has given it's endorsement for Monmoith County Freeholder to Middletown Committeeman Sean F. Byrnes.

In so doing, the APP states that "Byrnes' passion for cutting government spending and increasing transparency separate him from the field."... "Byrnes does not appear to be beholden to his party's political bosses. In fact, he has been critical of some of the patronage appointments and contracts handed out with little or no oversight during the past year." and added "...Byrnes is exceptional, the best choice in a field ..."

Here's the full endorsment:

Byrnes best bet for freeholder

Monmouth County voters are fortunate to have three well-qualified, civic-minded candidates to choose from in this year's election for an open seat on the Board of Freeholders. But Democrat Sean Byrnes' passion for cutting government spending and increasing transparency separate him from the field.

Control of the freeholder board, now in the hands of the Democrats after decades of all-Republican membership, is again on the line in this election. Curley raised concerns that a Democratic majority on the board would enable the state party leadership to gain control over jobs and contracts in Monmouth County.

But Byrnes does not appear to be beholden to his party's political bosses. In fact, he has been critical of some of the patronage appointments and contracts handed out with little or no oversight during the past year. Byrnes said he was pleased with the current freeholder board's decisions to have in-house legal and engineering services and "doing away with a system that allowed handouts."

In Red Bank, Curley successfully fought machine politics and helped keep a helipad, a patronage-job visitors center and a solid waste station from being built in the borough.

Rosenthal, a retired financial analyst with Merrill Lynch, has been active with several volunteer programs and is passionate about helping people in need, especially during these tough economic times. He says his presence on the freeholder board would make it truly bipartisan, and he promised greater oversight in the budget process.

Curley and Rosenthal both have strong credentials. But Byrnes is exceptional, the best choice in a field of three worthy candidates.

Byrnes, Republican John Curley and Independent Stan Rosenthal are seeking the seat being vacated by Freeholder Director Barbara McMorrow, who opted not to seek re-election this year, citing health reasons. Curley, vice president of an auto dealership and a former Red Bank councilman, was narrowly defeated by Democrat Amy Mallet in last year's election.

Byrnes, an attorney and Middletown township committeeman, is bright, articulate and has an uncommon grasp of issues affecting Monmouth County residents.

His review of the county budget has enabled him to pinpoint departments "ripe for cutting," and he has identified specific positions within departments that have more personnel than needed to function well. He says he will push for across-the-board 10 percent budget cuts, as well as directing some department heads to find further cuts.

A proponent of openness in government, Byrnes said he would make sure all county budget data and other information of interest to residents would be posted online. He lamented the apathy he has seen about county government, and said having more information easily available would encourage residents to get involved and provide input on ways to make government more efficient and responsive.

Byrnes' extensive volunteer and professional background have given him hands-on budget and management experience that would serve him well on the freeholder board.

A private-practice attorney with no public contracts, Byrnes has served on the Red Bank Board of Education and the boards of directors for the Community YMCA, the Parker Clinic and the Charter School. A graduate of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, he served in the Coast Guard for 22 years before recently retiring as a commander.

Byrnes to Introduce Resolution Requesting Governor to Petition President Obama to Keep Fort Monmouth Open

Monmouth County Freeholder Candidate Sean Byrnes will be introducing a resolution to the Middletown Township Committee Monday night that would request Governor Jon Corzine to petition President Barack Obama to keep Fort Monmouth open and maintain its facilities for the support of service members and their families.

Democrat Byrnes, sits on the Middletown Township Committee and thinks that this is a "No-Brainer" and that the resolution should be passed with little to no opposition, in time to be presented to President Obama Wednesday at Fairleigh Dickinson University, where he will be campaigning for Governor Jon Corzine.

Below is the text of the resoloution to be introduced Monday night:

TOWNSHIP OF MIDDLETOWN

COUNTY OF MONMOUTH

RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE GOVERNOR TO PETITION

THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES TO KEEP FORT

MONMOUTH OPEN AND FACILITIES FOR THE

SUPPORT OF SERVICE MEMBERS AND THEIR FAMILIES

WHEREAS, the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Commission

decided in to close Fort Monmouth to move the functions and personnel to Army facilities in Maryland and Ohio; and

WHEREAS, the Inspector General for the Army has recently completed an investigation into the decision-making involved in the decision

to close Fort Monmouth; and

WHEREAS, Fort Monmouth has been the home to the U.S. Army Material Command and Army Acquisition Executive that researches andmanages Command and Control, Communications, Computing, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance capabilities; and

WHEREAS, Fort Monmouth has provided valuable support and services to active duty, National Guard, reserve and retired members of all branches of our country's military sen-ices; and

WHEREAS, these services are provided through a system of appropriated funds under which the purchases and fees paid by service members pay the costs associated the operations of these facilities; and

WHEREAS, thousands of these service members and retired service members continue to rely upon the commissary for the purchase of food products and the exchange for purchases of retail products, as well as the golf course and marina; and

WHEREAS, we continue to advocate for and favor a reversal of the-decision the and

WHEREAS, we join in the growing chorus of voices, including those of Senators Menendez and Lautenberg, Congressmen Smith and Holt, demanding a reconsideration of the decision to close Fort Monmouth in light of recent revelations suggesting that the true costs of the closure and move will dramatically exceed earlier estimates; and

WHEREAS, the Township Committee believes strongly that in the event of the closure of Fort Monmouth that certain functions of the base that provide benefits and services, such as the base exchange, commissary and golf course, be preserved so that these benefits and may be maintained,

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Committee of the Township of Middletown in the County of Monmouth, State of Jersey that the Township of does hereby urge the Governor of the State of New Jersey to petition the President of the United States to reconsider the decision to close Fort Monmouth.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Township Committee does hereby recommend that in the event that the closure of Fort Monmouth does those facilities and buildings that provide exchange services,commissary privileges, morale and welfare support and other important

benefits to our service members and their families be and sustained.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Township Clerk forward a certitied true copy of this resolution to the Office of the Governor.

Byrnes Supports and Adopts Democratic Ethics Plan: Will Implement Reforms as a Freeholder

September 10, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


FREEHOLD, NJ – Today, Democratic Candidate for Monmouth County Freeholder Sean F. Byrnes issued a statement of support for the ethics plan laid our by Democratic Freeholder John D’Amico at today’s Freeholder meeting:

“The people must have trust in their government,” said Byrnes, “This plan for ethics reform goes a long way to restoring that public trust. I look forward to helping to implement these plans next year if I’m elected Freeholder.”

The Democratic Ethics Plan call for numerous reforms including:
1. The creation and implementation of a Monmouth County Code of Ethics to address:

a. Conflicts of interest
b. Activity that gives the appearance of impropriety
c. Gifts
d. Disclosure and Disqualification
e. Lobbying of local officials
f. Procurement process
g. Permanent Ethics Board or Commission
h. Incompatible employment
i. Unauthorized disclosure of confidential county information
j. Private use of county property
k. Representation of third parties against the county
l. Nepotism
m. Restrictions on employees or officials after they leave county service
n. Penalties
o. Ethics education
p. Financial disclosures

2. The establishment of a Monmouth County Ethics Board to:

a. Receive complaints and hold hearings as to violations of the code or financial disclosure requirements
b. Issue subpoenas
c. Forward appropriate information to law enforcement authorities
d. Render Advisory Opinions as to facts and circumstances that would or would not constitute a violation of any provisions of the County Code of Financial Disclosure requirements
e. Enforce the Code and to impose or recommend penalties for violations
f. Adopt necessary rules and regulations necessary to implement the code

“These fundamental changes in the way the County does business are sorely needed after 23 years of one-party rule,” said Byrnes. “This is just one step in the process of reforming county government after decades of complacency on the issue of ethics.”

Byrnes Fundraiser At "The Downtown" Announced

Vin Gopal, Chuck Fallon & Jonathan Lomurro, Esq.

cordially invite you to a reception in support of

SEAN BYRNES

for Monmouth County Freeholder

and honoring our Chairman,

VICTOR V. SCUDIERY

Co -Hosted By:

Freeholder Amy A. Mallet

Mayor Pasquale Menna

Councilman Arthur V. Murphy

Councilwoman Sharon Lee

Councilwoman Kathy Horgan

Councilman Michael DuPont

Councilwoman Juanita Lewis

Councilman Ed Zipprich

Middletown Councilman

Patrick Short

Matawan Councilman

Joseph 'Bud' Mullaney

Neptune Committeeman

Randy Bishop

Brielle Councilman

Rick Bolger

Mayor Edward J. McKenna

Ocean Township Board of Ed

Member Mike Beson

Middletown Democrats

Chairman Joe Caliendo

Amy Quinn, Esq.

West Long Branch

Democrats Chairman

Lawrence Shapiro, Esq.

April Klimley

Tom Bertoli

Commissioner Raj Mukherji

Michael Murphy, Esq.

Wednesday,

Wednesday, August 19th

6:00pm to 9:00pm

The Downtown

(10 West Front Street, Red Bank)

Ticket: $100 per person, $175 per couple

($40 for those 30 and under)

RSVP to Vin Gopal, 732-299-5625

or by e-mail to vin.gopal.2008@gmail.com

Byrnes Sends Open Letter To Corzine Asking For 3 Year Moratorium on COAH

Middletown Democratic Committeeman and candidate for Monmouth County Freeholder, Sean F. Byrnes, sent this open letter to Governor Jon Corzine recently asking him to consider placing a 3 year moratorium on COAH regulations while our state "wrestles with the financial crises that has cripples our economy".

I think Byrnes's request is a sensible one when considering the state of the economy and falling real estate values. I hope that the Governor will consider it:

Dear Governor Corzine,

I write to you as an elected official in the Township of Middletown. In compliance with the most recent guidance from the Council on Affordable Housing (COAH), we submitted our Affordable Housing Plan to COAH in December 2008. Although our Township Committee met its legal obligation, we did so with great reservation.

Middletown is an economically diverse Township whose history is free from any effort or intention to exclude or restrict the growth of a base of affordable housing. Nevertheless, because of the calculations that we must employ under COAH regulations, we must now expand our base of affordable housing. To meet the goals imposed by COAH, we must compel land owners and developers to add additional housing units that might not otherwise be constructed in the Township. We do so at a time when the marketability of these units, due to the current housing crisis, is open to question.

While I recognize that COAH was created in response to a legal mandate from the New Jersey Supreme Court, I write now to ask that you consider a three year moratorium on imposition of the most recent round of COAH regulations. As I know you are keenly aware, our country continues to wrestle with a financial crisis that has crippled our economy. I commend you for making hard choices this year to counter a $4.0 billion dollar loss of budgeted revenue, and I am asking for this additional step to assist local municipalities in their efforts to engage in thoughtful use of their land and to balance their budgets during these difficult times.

A moratorium would take the pressure off and allow all parties, including the Legislature, to assess the financial impact of this most recent round of legislation in the light of this recent financial downturn and to engage in this implementation process at a future time when this crisis will have abated and not loom so largely over our decision-making.

I am concerned that we are making very permanent decisions on the future of our housing stock and the use of our limited, undeveloped property at a time when the full impact of this financial crisis has yet to be fully measured and its long-term consequences assessed. I thank you for your consideration on this very important matter.

Very truly yours,
Committeeman Sean F. Byrnes
Township of Middletown