October 14th , Subject: Citizen Advisors

    My husband and I moved to Middletown in May and have been enjoying the community.  However, we were not happy to learn of the 7.1% increase in property taxes included in this year’s budget and approved by the current Township Committee. 
Studying the positions of those running for the Township Committee, I was encouraged by the thoughtful proposal by candidates, Jim Grenafege & Patricia Walsh.  They have recognized that people in the community have skills that can augment those of the Committee members when dealing with difficult issues, particularly increases in expenses that normally would be borne by taxpayers.
    Including these citizens as advisers to the governing process can make a significant contribution to creating more effective and efficient management of our tax dollars.
Many cities in the country, such as Madison, Wisconsin and Charlotte, North Carolina, have used tools that have proven successful across US industry, tools that establish departmental scorecards with performance measures – all designed to improve their operations and reduce operating costs.  Middletown citizens who use these tools in their work can advise the Township Committee in their application to municipal operations.
Our current economic crisis demands transparency in government—and that means local government also.
    We support electing Pat Walsh and Jim Grenafege to the Middletown Township Committee.  They will bring innovative ideas to Middletown that will ensure fiscal accountability.

Sincerely yours,

Marilyn Michaels
Retired Corporate Executive