When it comes to local politics, the last 48 hours have been akin to the "Potpourri" category on TV's Jeopardy—a little bit of this and a little bit of that.
First, with polls opening in less than 24 hours, LeeAnn Carlson, running as an at-large candidate on the Real Progress Montclair slate, released a statement late Monday how how the math of Montclair's municipal budget just doesn't add up.
In part, it said:
"If this pattern of mismanagement is allowed to continue, the fabric and identity of our community is threatened to its very core. The next Mayor and Council must be motivated to fully understand and honestly address Montclair's debt, its cost of services, the uncertainty around property tax trends, and the need for more active Township governance. Only by doing so will critical public services and cherished institutions like our public magnet school system, our libraries, and pre-k program thrive. Voters must take this equation into the voting booth when making their decisions on Election Day, May 8th.
"With combined experience of 6+ years studying Montclair's municipal and Board of Education budgets, Real Progress Montclair is the team best equipped to fight the very real threats to Montclair's core values. We did this work and analysis not as elected officials but as part of Montclair's broad community of volunteers through our contributions to official Working Groups and Advisory Committees, and as leaders of a budget watchdog organization.
"Visit www.realprogressmontclair.com for more information on the candidate's positions on key issues, background, and its specific 90-day and six-month plans of action."
Second, Karen Turner, the mayoral candidate leading the Real Progress Montclair slate, has released a final letter to supporters and voters. It reads as follows:
Dear Friends,
In a few short days, the campaign dust will settle and we'll be neighbors again.
We'll see each other at the grocery store and the post office; at synagogue and at church; at PTA meetings and at our children's games and activities. When you see me, I want you to know who you are seeing.
I'm a woman who grew up in many different places. Because my father was in the military I didn't have roots anywhere until I came here. Now, Montclair is my home. I fell in love with this town when my husband first took me to Edgemont Park where he hit his first home run. I saw the architecture, I felt the energy, I enjoyed the shade of our magnificent trees. But, most of all, I loved the people. And while I've made so many close friends over the last 17 years, I've lost some too - forced to move because of the unsustainable rise in property taxes.
A few years ago, my husband suggested that we might have to think about moving as well. But, like any other smart woman, I had my own ideas. I decided to get involved and see what I could do to help stabilize taxes and restructure services rather than relying on cuts and new debt to balance the budget.
What I learned through Concerned Citizens of Montclair and later, through the Operating Budget Advisory Committee, was frightening. Although the Township is a $200 million organization, there is no process for fiscal planning beyond the current budget. No 3-year forecast of revenue projections; no 5-year plan for expenses; no 10-year benchmark for debt reduction.
Instead, as budget cycles come and go, our elected officials scramble to decide what so-called "amenities" they can cut and how high they can increase taxes. The result: library funding has been slashed, funding for Pre-K scholarships to those in need nearly eliminated, and community policing not even seriously discussed as a possible program. In the last few years, we also saw middle class, public employee layoffs for the first time in the Township's history, health care stripped from our classroom aides, and important institutions like the Arts Council completely defunded.
The truth is, none of this had to be. Past councils simply allowed it to happen by taking no initiative to prevent it. Stale thinking and an inordinate amount of time spent on distractions and pet projects kept the focus off our true priorities.
This has been no way to run a Township. And sadly, many of our family members, friends, and neighbors have agreed and they've voted with their feet. How can we truly maintain a community if the people are constantly leaving?
I have no interest in higher office. You won't see me cutting deals with outside interests to get elected. And you won't see me contort the truth about my opponents' records in order to win at all costs. But if I do earn the privilege of being Montclair's first popularly elected woman mayor, I promise to be true to Montclair.
We will get a handle on our town's finances no matter how hard it is and no matter how much resistance we face. As we do, you can be sure we will preserve the programs, institutions, and values that others on the incumbent slate and the status quo slate have jeopardized: the Library, early childhood education, the arts, economic development, open space, and so much more.
Friends, I harbor no animosity to my opponents. While their attacks have gone too far, I understand that campaigns can be hard fought. In the end, I believe my opponents want what's best for Montclair.
But, they've had their chances. In the next four years, Montclair is going to need hard work and a fresh perspective. It's time to elect candidates that will make Real Progress in order to preserve what we all love about Montclair in a more sustainable and thoughtful manner.
Your Neighbor,
Karen
Third, and on a completely different note, when it comes to campaign signs, it seems a whole lot of people around Montclair are violating the town code. According to section 08-47, signs need to be 10 feet in and not placed between the curb and the sidewalk.
Fourth, Mayor Jerry Fried—campaign manager for Deputy Mayor Kathryn Weller-Demming, who's running for an at-large seat—said Saturday night that he's not sure whether or not he'll publicly endorse any candidates, adding that he's uncertain whether an endorsement would be helpful at this stage.
Fifth, both Councilor Rich Murnick, running in the 1st ward, and Robin Schlager, running in the 2nd ward, attended Saturday night's Filmmakers Party put on by the Montclair Film Festival. The candidates, running on the Montclair 2012 slate, made a point of talking to almost everyone there, and noted that they'd been campaigning hard all day.
Sixth, the Real Progress Montclair slate sent out all sorts of press releases and emails to voters over the weekend, including one on Sunday that made note of: "a 40 percent tax increase during [Robert] Jackson's first term in office" and "$100 million in new debt under Bob Russo during his four years as mayor."
Seventh, an email also went out Monday morning from the For Montclair slate.
It reads as follows:
"On May 8 Montclair will go to the polls to select a mayor and council. The choice is between three stark alternatives. Harvey Susswein and For Montclair is the only progressive team with broad appeal across the political spectrum. They have put forward a detailed and balanced plan of fiscal restraint and economic development along with respect for Montclair's traditions. Neither Robert Jackson's Montclair 2012 slate or Karen Turner's Real Progress Montclair slate of candidates have proposed realistic solutions to the issues facing Montclair. Vote for a progressive ticket that has the vision and experience to preserve Montclair’s values and get our fiscal house in order. Vote for Harvey Susswein and the For Montclair team on Line C:
Mayoral Candidate Harvey Susswein; At-Large Candidate Tim Barr; 1st Ward Candidate Bill Hurlock; 2nd Ward Candidate Walter Springer; 3rd Ward Candidate Jeff Jacobson
Regards, Harvey Susswein and the For Montclair team.
Eighth, and perhaps most interestingly, this Montclair Patch editor received a handful of emails over the weekend expressing concern over Michael Byrne's connection to the Real Progress Montclair campaign. Byrne was a field director for the conservative group Americans for Prosperity.
"As a voter I’d like to know the answer to this—can they explain why they chose Michael Byrne as campaign manager with his connections to a right wing agenda that does not represent the values of most Montclair residents?" asked Montclair resident Emily Grand.
Patch asked the RPM campaign about this. The campaign's response, written by Larry Kopp, co-chair and campaign director for RPM, is as follows:
"I am running this campaign and its day-to-day operations. I have been the co-chair of RPM with Sue Weintraub and the campaign manager since day one. This role was announced at our launch. I am also running the GOTV operation. I am a seasoned Democratic political consultant with years of experience working on national and statewide campaigns and progressive causes. My role has been reported in the media previously.
"Mike Byrnes and Ilmar Vanderer are our only paid part time volunteers on the campaign who work under my direction. We have many bright citizens who are also helping with our campaign operation at the same level including Dede Horotwitz, Lynn Selassie, Carol Ewertson, Linda Bowers, Jane Day, Sue McLaughlin, and dozens of others from all corners of Montclair. They all report to me and to Sue.
"Ironically, Mike was asked by both [Robert] Jackson and [Harvey] Susswein to work on their slates as a paid volunteer. Mike was born and raised in Montclair. He attended Montclair High School. He has served in a non-partisan capacity for the last four years on the Shared Services Task Force, 4th of July Parade Committee, the Mayor's School Board Advisory Committee and the Montclair Election Review Commission.
"Our opponents are trying to tarnish Mike and make this a campaign issue. As you know this race is non-partisan and the Real Progress Montclair slate is made up of two Democrats and two Independents. Other slates are made up of ex-mayors and registered Republicans.
"Voters care only about our platform and what we are going to do if our team is elected. RPM's goal is to put Montclair on better footing for a sustainable future while preserving the character and valued programs we all know and love about this great town."
Proud Dem
3:38 pm on Sunday, May 6, 2012
I honestly don't know what would be worse....Romney as President or Jackson as mayor. Jackson's lies, spin and attacks on RPM are despicable. A man of this character can not be voted in as mayor of Montclair or we will certainly find ourselves in more debt and deeper trouble than we are in now. With Susswein leading the helm, at least we know what we will get...more of the last 12 years. Karen Turner and her slate are our only hope of getting out of debt and getting the town in order fiscally which should be our top priority.
Meg Beattie Patrick
4:50 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Here's Turner speaking on slashing the Library and the Arts and trees, oh my.... http://www.montclair2012.com/karen_turner_in_her_own_words_on_the_library_the_arts_and_trees?recruiter_id=27325
Good Liberal
5:01 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
How can Turner, with her CCM background, her Tea Party/Michelle Bachman campaign manager, and her all-white slate claim to represent Montclair? You can't possibly belong to the same Democratic party that I do.
She has no interest in our schools and wouldn't even send her children to our schools. Not my kind of Democrat.
Sydney
9:37 am on Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Dear "Good Liberal"... You give Good Liberals a BAD NAME. Are you so ignorant that you would compare an independant running for Mayor to Michelle Bachmann? Are you so ignorant that you cry "diversity" but a political view that is reasonable and different sends you running for the hills?
Do you have more allegiance to democrats and liberals than you do MONTCLAIR and your neighbors?
OMG Montclair
4:39 pm on Sunday, May 6, 2012
Wow, the RPM campaign team reads like the Directory of the JR League, can't you guys even fake diversity?
Stuck in the Middle
2:21 am on Tuesday, May 8, 2012
The last time I checked, we are not voting for the campaign team, we are voting for the candidates. The RPM slate has 4 candidates -- and 2 of them are women. From the other 2 slates there are a combined 11 candidates and only 1 woman. You may not care much about that OMG, but I guess it depends on how you define diversity.
The biggest town blunders in recent history (and happening currently) have been due to developers having their way with the Town Council -- The Sienna, Christopher Court, the Assisted Living Facility, etc. I WILL NOT vote for a candidate who is financially and philosophically aligned with the real estate oligarchy that treats this town like its own little fiefdom, which is why I WILL NOT vote for Jackson.
sydney
9:41 am on Tuesday, May 8, 2012
OMG Montclair-- You must not have read the directory for the Junior League recently. Anyway.. what a compliment to the women of the Junior Leauge. I should hope that women who are active community volunteers supporting childen-in-need in Essex County would support the right candidate.
OMG Montclair
4:42 pm on Sunday, May 6, 2012
Peter Zorich is an independent?, Keep spinning Larry
He changed his registration from Republican a few years ago so he can run again, that is real progress
MC
11:32 pm on Sunday, May 6, 2012
OMG Montclair. (Full disclosure: I'm registered Democrat) Why cast aspersions on someone offering themselves for public service purely because they are registered in a party different from you? Last time I checked Montclair was still part of the U.S. of A and not annexed by single-party monolith like China.
OMG Montclair
12:46 am on Monday, May 7, 2012
MC,
Full Disclosure I am a registered Republican in a sea of Blue and my point is that Zorich became an independent not out of his beliefs but to hide them
A. Gideon
8:23 am on Monday, May 7, 2012
"Zorich became an independent not out of his beliefs but to hide them"
I'd call this another example of "Montclair omniscience" (like those that can know where children attend school by looking at their homes), except I expect that the poster doesn't live in Montclair. However, though I don't know anything about Mr. Zorich's political affiliations, I will say that I'd be surprised had a lot of people not abandoned the Republican Party in recent years given its drift to extremes.
...Andrew
notroc
9:33 am on Monday, May 7, 2012
Does RPM's Faust seek to Hannitize Montclair? Part of the problem with Peter's crafty switch to non-affiliation is that Montclairions can't tell which Zorich will emerge after Wednesday evening - Progressive Pete or the stealthy right-wing legislator I picture. His campaign has not allayed my suspicions.
And Andrew, come on, please. You've performed a yeoman's work (old school) over the internet tubes in recent weeks for RPM, but most of what you have produced are distractions or partially truthful statements (guess what the other part is), and attacks apparently designed to keep people from observing or pointing any warts or wrinkles that comes with the RPM slate. Montclair is not your sandbox.
notroc
10:10 am on Monday, May 7, 2012
oops, "Tuesday evening"
Shelley Emling
4:42 pm on Sunday, May 6, 2012
Actually a reader told me about that section of the code... and I certainly have noticed a lot of signs up on curbs...
OMG Montclair
4:48 pm on Sunday, May 6, 2012
Also, all the slates are leaving them in Public Places like the train stations and schjools, i think we can all agree that we should take ALL the signs down where they don't belong
OMG Montclair
6:05 pm on Sunday, May 6, 2012
Larry is for " progressive causes", I guess the 1% needs his defense
justonecomment
6:43 pm on Sunday, May 6, 2012
Hey OMG Montclair:
You are either a paid hack or need to get a life.
OMG Montclair
12:43 am on Monday, May 7, 2012
you can get money for this?
A. Gideon
7:22 pm on Sunday, May 6, 2012
Have OMG Montclair tell the joke again about how no actions were taken based upon the BOE Working Groups. That is, assuming that he or she hasn't since received a correction from one of the members of the slate that hired him or her that actually lives here.
...Andrew
OMG Montclair
12:43 am on Monday, May 7, 2012
Andrew,
Even if I concede to you that the working groups found the surplus, name one thing that was executed by the BOE from recommendations of the working groups, the revenue committee ideas were never approved, Harvey's Special needs school was never even considered, the savings for transportation were never considered, the cost savings measures were never considered (except to screw the aids) so Please tell me the joke, because the Joke were on the hard working volutneers . Once the BOE got the money from Christie, nothing (or very little) happen, that is a fact
A. Gideon
8:19 am on Monday, May 7, 2012
"that is a fact"
It's a fact...with minor exceptions that make it the opposite of a fact. You might as well be saying "up is down...give or take 180 degrees". Fascinating "backpedal". It is nice that you've learned about the aides since you last posted on this topic.
You're missed some smaller stuff too, BTW, but I expect this didn't make the press either where ever it is you live.
...Andrew
Louis Fontana
7:55 pm on Sunday, May 6, 2012
Nice of Larry Kopp to refer to Michael D. Byrne as "Mike Byrnes." It's Byrne, not Byrnes. You would think Mr. Kopp would know the name of one of RPM's only "paid part time volunteers."
While Mr. Kopp is the "public face" of RPM -- in large part, because of his past Democratic/progressive bona fides -- he does have a day job in NYC. Thus, the otherwise unemployed Mike Byrne is, in fact, running the day-to-day operations. Of course, RPM is smart to keep Byrne (or "Byrnes") behind the scenes, given his hard core conservative beliefs.
Finally, since Mr. Kopp insists on reverting to the old stand-by line -- that RPM consists of "2 Democrats (Swenson and Carlson) and 2 independents" (Turner and Zorich), it must again be stated that one of RPM's candidates managed the congressional campaign of Republican Roland Straten in 2008, and contributed to Ohio Republican John Kasich in 2009. Independent?
These campaigns would be much better without the behind-the-scenes spinsters (of which all 3 slates are guilty).
Tell it Straight
4:16 pm on Monday, May 14, 2012
This just in...... I ordered a pizza for dinner tonight and RPM had inserted a flyer within the box, that they are the only slate that supports all the pizzeria's in town. Is there a business, a cause, a special interest group, an unturned rock that they haven't politicized yet ???? They are the best, just ask them, or Andrew
Jeff Jacobson
8:46 am on Monday, May 7, 2012
Mrs. Turner's closing email troubles me for several reasons.
It's not just that she says she won't "contort her opponents' records" just to get elected, right before falsely characterizing my For Montclair slate -- which has zero incumbents and has proposed numerous specific plans for budget reform and positive change -- as "the status quo slate." That's not exactly the high ground.
The bigger problem is that, on election eve, Mrs. Turner seems to be promising that we can have it all. Her letter makes it look as though we can achieve a flat budget with no layoffs and no cuts, and that she'll have enough money left over to restore the Arts Council, Pre-K funding, and many other services. How is she going to do this? Her letter doesn't say, and when another mayoral candidate asked her for specific budget savings proposals at the CGI debate, she ducked.
I urge every voter to visit www.formontclair.com, look at our detailed proposals, and remember that getting Montclair's budget under control will require a clear vision on how to get there and hard work by people with the experience to bring about the change we need.
And please remember to vote tomorrow, regardless of whom you're supporting.
Regards,
Jeff Jacobson
Third Ward Candidate
For Montclair - Line C
Shelley Emling
8:52 am on Monday, May 7, 2012
Thanks Jeff..
A. Gideon
8:53 am on Monday, May 7, 2012
"we can achieve a flat budget with no layoffs and no cuts"
Can you point out where this is stated? I'm afraid I'm missing it (though I am still working through but my first flagon of coffee).
...Andrew
A. Gideon
8:58 am on Monday, May 7, 2012
"And please remember to vote tomorrow, regardless of whom you're supporting."
Yes! Please also remind your neighbors that you see over the next day. It takes so little time and effort to vote, and - especially given this local election with its small electorate - each vote makes such a difference. Let's all get out there and vote, sending the message - regardless of for whom we're voting - that we're part of this town, we care about this town, and that we make a difference in this town.
...Andrew
Terry Gorman
9:09 am on Monday, May 7, 2012
Jeff,
" That's not exactly the high ground."
After Harvey's and David Grills letters/emails, For Montclair gave up any chance of every claiming the "high ground". Though I will applaud you and some of your running mates from distancing yourselves from those letters. That being said, while I understand that you have never met Mr. Remsen, it is obvious that Harvey has placed a great deal of trust in him and has been accepting both his money and his advice. That type of advice is some that this town can just no longer afford.
A. Gideon
9:41 am on Monday, May 7, 2012
"Though I will applaud you and some of your running mates from distancing yourselves from those letters."
I agree; that was a very respectable act. I worry, though, that it displayed shades of Cary's "removal" (via photoshop!) from the Unity Slate that he is probably responsible for getting into office (though I must quickly add that I intend this as an expression of praise for Cary; not blame {8^).
Still, that was an act that brought to our attention that campaigning are individuals; not merely slates.
...Andrew
professorishor
10:10 am on Monday, May 7, 2012
Why did Ms. Emling put Karen Turner's campaign letter first in this PATCH report when the dispute over Mr. Byrne's work for Turner is the real "news" item? Ms. Turner's bland letter merely repeats her standard claims but the dispute on Mr. Byrne is "news" worth covering, what counts the most. Also, Ms. Turner not only comes first with her "no news" item but she is given more space in the report than any other slate or candidate. Is PATCH a stealth public relations tool for the Turner slate? Whatever comes first is read the most. This is unbalanced and unprofessional newsreporting. PATCH and the Montclair Times should have been doing investigative reporting all through this campaign to clarify the identities of those involved and their claims. News organizations serve their locales by asking questions the candidates evade or ignore. This is what a news organization is supposed to do for its readership; neither PATCH nor Mtc Times did so; both let Mtc down. We need a real "newspaper" in town.
Terry Gorman
10:44 am on Monday, May 7, 2012
Prof,
For someone who claims not to support any slate, you do seem to spend all your time on this site bashing Ms. Turner and the people involved in her campaign. I don't recall you saying anything about the $14+K in outside contributions, including the $2,500 contribution from the Lackawana Plaza developer to the Jackson campaign. I didn't hear anything from you when Jackson interjected race into this campaign. Why are you "outraged" by any of that?
notroc
12:03 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Oh, Terry and other RPMers (and others), will you please stop this crap about Mr. Jackson being the person to interject race into this campaign? While Mr. Jackson maybe was the first to write the word "African" on this blog, it clearly was in response to RPM's mendacious April 19 Dog Whistle statement complaining of Mr. Jackson and Ms. Steele "bullying" Montclair's Power Moms(tm).
Mr. Jackson and I apparently have the ability to interpret white racist Dog Whistle into English, or something like it. Most of my fellow honkies do not - they perk up their ears and follow the master's whistled commands without much solid reasoning aforethought. Your and others' harping on this false attack of Mr. Jackson really diminishes your credibility regarding anything else you might write.
Montclair Public
10:32 am on Monday, May 7, 2012
"The bigger problem is that, on election eve, Mrs. Turner seems to be promising that we can have it all. Her letter makes it look as though we can achieve a flat budget with no layoffs and no cuts, and that she'll have enough money left over to restore the Arts Council, Pre-K funding, and many other services. How is she going to do this? Her letter doesn't say, and when another mayoral candidate asked her for specific budget savings proposals at the CGI debate, she ducked."
Paul Ryan in a skirt
Montclair Public
10:34 am on Monday, May 7, 2012
Shelley, I am sorry to say this but you have turned your site into a promotional vehicle for the Turner slate. Not saying you have not provided forums for the other candidates, but the play, as Prof. Shor alleges, has been clearly tilted to promote Turner's ideas -- to the point where it appears to be developing news.
Paine
11:50 am on Monday, May 7, 2012
Does anyone know how to search for lawsuits?
I overheard a discussion while getting coffee this morning. All I heard was “multimillion dollar lawsuit,” “bankruptcy,” and “what happens if the mayor resigns?”
I can’t find anything with Google. I tried all these searches:
Jerry Fried lawsuit
Karen Turner lawsuit and Karen Turner PTA lawsuit
Robert Jackson lawsuit
Harvey Susswein lawsuit and Harvey Susswein zoning lawsuit
I was trying to scoop Baristanet, Patch, the Times. If there is a lawsuit, maybe we can break the news as a group?
Email me or share it here.
Pamphleteer76@gmail.com
(Disclosure: I’ve said I expect to vote for Turner, but not if there is a legit lawsuit that will hang over the next council.)
Terry Gorman
11:52 am on Monday, May 7, 2012
"Their you again distorting the truth. I'm beginning to believe the CCM/RPM campaign is not about politics; but, about Aryan control, which Terry and others are following. The financial backing is there."
You would think with all of their outside money, the Montclair 2012 slate could have hired people who know how to spell. "Aryan control"?????? You can't be serious. More incredible, outrageous, unsubstantiated charges. Once again, I invite you all to have a discussion on the issues in this campaign and tell us all why your candidate can help this town better than another candidate could, over the next four years.
The truth is, Jackson was the first to bring up the issue of race in this campaign. That is indisbutable.
notroc
12:11 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Oh, Terry and other RPMers (and others), will you please stop this crap about Mr. Jackson being the person to interject race into this campaign? While Mr. Jackson maybe was the first to write the word "African" on this blog, it clearly was in response to RPM's mendacious April 19 Dog Whistle statement complaining of Mr. Jackson and Ms. Steele "bullying" Montclair's Power Moms(tm). THAT is indisputable, to coin a phrase.
Mr. Jackson and I apparently have the ability to interpret white racist Dog Whistle into English, or something like it. Most of my fellow honkies do not - they perk up their ears and follow the master's whistled commands without much solid reasoning aforethought. Your and others' harping on this false attack of Mr. Jackson really diminishes your credibility regarding anything else you might write.
Right of Center
12:39 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Mr. Jackson suggested that the RPM statement was based on his race when there was absolutely no reference to race. If that's in "interjecting" race into the campaign, I don't know what is.
It's not unreasonable to assume that once in office, should he be met with opposition, he'd do it again whenever he needed to be shielded from criticism.
Shelley Emling
12:06 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
This article was first published yesterday. I topped it this morning with the "latest" piece of info sent to me this morning, which was Karen Turner's letter. As soon as I get something from another slate, I'll top this article with that information.
Shelley Emling
12:08 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
You are welcome to meet with me professor or phone me at 973-744-3112. The simple truth is that, in general, the RPM slate has continued to send out press releases over the weekend while the other slates have not.
Stuart Weissman
12:37 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
notroc,
Your anonymity and your sudden first appearance here on Patch on Saturday lend you little credence. Your content helps little more.
notroc
3:56 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
OK, Stuart, thanks for jumping on (me). I'll play along. I did first post here the other day, because I feel compelled to rebut the outright distortions and distractions presented by RPM and its supporters. I am a late coming poster here. I was hoping that some others would come forward earlier and stand up to the bullies and ease my burden; c'est la vie. I do expect to keep my anonymity here, hoping that my taxed enough already neighbors or others won't retaliate against me for trying to speak truth to power (moms).
Also, if you or others running the RPM offensive here do not understand my dog whistle comment, I understand. To me, that proves my point.
I have, however, had the privilege to be a homeowner and Super Taxpayer for over 23 years, and I hope to stay here in Montclair for as long as I want to. Can you imagine being able to stay in Montclair during retirement? I can (though I do not support the proposed assisted living facility - it won't provide enough of a benefit for downtown Montclair businesses, while adding to traffic and parking woes, not to mention PILOTs or the risk of the facility somehow falling off the tax roles altogether via potential changes in ownership).
(cont,)
notroc
5:14 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
(cont.:)
Back to the topic, my wife and I bought here about a year after the Stock Market crash of 1987, and the psyche among the taxpayers then was similar to how it is now: people were depressed about an uncertain economy and the loss in value of their retirement accounts, etc. The demographics were different in that many homeowners then were empty-nesters who still were holding onto their homes in hope of better prices down the road after suffering home price declines and stagnation from the very early '70s through the late '80s. The activated older generation put tons of pressure on the town to lower taxes by cutting expenses. We are now still paying for the mistakes my fellow Montclairions made then..
Back when we bought here in '88 the main attraction for us over other comparable towns was Montlair's Public Schools, which were then ranked #1 in New Jersey (I even recall one magazine naming us #1 in the nation in '89 or '90 or so), and.included FREE FULL-DAY PUBLIC PRE-K which was offered to all 4-year-olds. The Old Guard considered Pre-K to be an extravagance: free baby-sitting for the uppity newcomers. They also favored mothers to be stay-at-home moms. Cutting expenses was the populist movement then here, much as it is now, at least among the loud crowd.
(Cont...)
notroc
5:15 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
(Cont.:)
So, in order to cut education expenses, Montclair closed the Pre-K system, and sold the Washington Avenue, Grove Street and Southwest (South Mountain Avenue) schools. For the obscene total (in a negative way) of about $2,750,000. That's right - for ALL THREE school buildings (ponder the replacement cost of those facilities today). Of course a baby boom began - the biggest since the post-WWII boom - around the same time, which soon required more school facilities.
As a result, our family and others began hemorrhaging tuition to MKA, and MKA, previously a sleepy little school, has thrived ever since. I like MKA, but Montclair is still paying the price. For example, $40 Million of Montclair's current debt is carried for the construction of the Bullock School as a direct result of the earlier school sales. Only one of those former properties of ours is generating any property tax, yet Deron and Sawtelle do tax us in municipal services,traffic and other issues. I don't recall the exact amounts that we've spent or committed to debt for building the current Pre-K or paying rent to the tax-free Vatican for Renaissance MS or rehabbing the Rand School for Renaissance, but mistakes do have consequences.
I just hope we don't make a few more tomorrow...
OMG Montclair
12:45 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
As much as I think that NOTROC is a little over the top, Turner campaign has used code words that Jackson is being "Controlled" By Essex County machine, that he and Steele (another African American) were conspiring against the PTA mom's. There is a reason there are not allot of Turner signs in the 4th ward
Terry Gorman
1:00 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
I never knew that "control" was a code word. You learn so many interesting things on this page.
The fact of the matter is that Ms. Steele, who is an Essex County appointee and does hold a patronage job (substantiated facts if you care to check) did send a letter telling those Mom's that they weren't permitted to indicate that they were members of the PTA when endorsing a candidate. The problem with her letter is that no such rule exists (that too has been substantiated). So I ask you, why would she send such a letter?
A. Gideon
1:05 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
"did send a letter telling those Mom's that they weren't permitted to indicate that they were members of the PTA when endorsing a candidate. "
She was also quoted making the same statement in the Montclair times. This was only a few sentences away from where she also said it was okay for candidates to list their affiliations.
...Andrew
Terry Gorman
12:47 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
"You need to learn how to spell."
Uhhhhhh that's telling me. Please point out my spelling errors, I'll be happy to point out yours. Your ridiculous statements make you sound ignorant, angry, without focus, etc. Is there a single positive contribution you can make to this page regarding a candidate you support? We all anxiously await your response.
A. Gideon
1:20 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
"Reciprocating your historical violent nature."
So that would be a "no" to Terry Gorman's question? You cannot post something positive about a candidate you support?
...Andrew
Terry Gorman
1:34 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
"To Terry. Here is your family history posted in 2011."
So in addition to being ignorant, you are also a racist. Of course, ignorance and racism tend to go hand in hand. Still no constructive contributions from any of you regarding the attributes of your slate. At this point I have to imagine that you are really doing a dis-service to the Montclair 2012 slate.
carols
2:28 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Ms Gorman- FYI, there IS a rule against the PTAs being involved in a political campaign. PTAs are 501 c3 corporations and therefore tax exempt. The IRS rules governing 501c3 entities apply here. The way I read it, the email solicitation and the original proposed ad go beyond "voter education activities." The ad itself was probably ok but it was clearly changed in response to feedback from various PTA leaders (not just Ms Steele). Below is the applicable section of the IRS Code:
4.76.2.5 (05-15-2003)
Political Campaign Intervention
An IRC § 501(c)(3) organization is prohibited from participating in or intervening in any political campaign. This prohibition includes publishing or distributing campaign statements. (However, see Rev. Rul. 78-248, 1978-1 C.B. 154, and Rev. Rul. 80-282, 1980-2 C.B. 178 for a discussion of certain "voter education activities." ) The sources set forth in IRM 4.76.2.4.1 also apply in finding evidence of political activity.
A. Gideon
2:52 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
"FYI, there IS a rule against the PTAs being involved in a political campaign. PTAs are 501 c3 corporations and therefore tax exempt. "
There is no rule against members of such an organization describing their affiliation with said organization, even in the context of a political campaign. Even Ms, Steele admitted this in the Montclair Times, though she would grant that right only to candidates and not to supporters of candidates.
It is a strawman argument to assert that there's a rule against the PTA endorsing since no PTA has endorsed.
...Andrew
Terry Gorman
3:39 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Carols,
If you read the original ad, which was in the Montclair Times on April 12th, there was no implied or expressed endorsement from a PTA. There was simply a statement from the undersigned women indicating that they were members of PTA's, PTO's, etc. There is no rule against that. BTW, it is Mr. Gorman. The femaie version of Terry is usually spelled Terri.
Paine
1:54 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Frank,
"I think posting these rumors is totally unfair and inappropriate. Any lawsuit is being handled in the proper forum – the courts. If you have a question of a candidate, please consider contacting them directly."
Crowd sourcing and citizen journalism are perfectly acceptable these days with the decline in media coverage. You and I do it all the time when we report observations from the meetings we attend.
And, it's not at all unfair to work together as a group researching an issue that could affect all of us.
I'm hoping a lawyer on the thread would have access to a database of lawsuits. If there is one, they could share it. We have a right to decide if it is relevant.
Pamphleteer76@gmail.com
Right of Center
1:58 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Paine with little more to go on that “i overheard while getting my coffee” It’s hardly anything. And it is irresponsible to spread rumors. In fact you may have even made up this rumor because you don’t even know which mayor they were talking about. A TV show? A mayor in another town?
Personally, I suspect you’ll float this “overheard” conversation. Then another new poster will mention some tangential piece of information “indicating” that it refers to some candidate or another. Then one of the rabid new screaming-meanie posters will repeat it ad infinitum and then (whadya know?) one of the candidates will issue a statement that “there’s no law suit hanging over OUR head, unlike some things we’re hearing about another slate”.
Better get a move-on with phase 2, time’s a-wasting.
Terry Gorman
2:07 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Dead Zone,
I'm not sure of which meds you are taking, but they aren't working. Go back to your shrink and tell them you need a new prescription.
MC
3:15 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
This is all beyond getting out of hand. I have flagged your comment as inappropriate. If our kids acted this way, we'd be all over them. As someone who has decided (enthusiastically!) to vote for Turner and RPM, I find this remark and others like it (for any candidate) beyond distasteful. I encourage supporters of other candidates to also call out the shrill voices, hot tempers and rumor mongers that are negative to step in. Even if you are commenting on another inappropriate post, Terry, two nasty, wrong-headed comments don't make a single right one. From what I have seen from Karen Turner, I think she would agree. This has gone on too long and we've all had it. Please, grown ups and the chaperones come back in. I hope everyone visits candidates' websites for their platforms, makes some critical realizations/decisions, and -- most of all -- VOTES!
Terry Gorman
4:15 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
MC,
My comments to Dead Zone came after racist comments about the Irish, trying to tie my family to the IRA, tying the RPM campaign to Aryan Control and the KKK and accusing me of being intoxicated and it was my comment about meds that you decided to flag? Seriously?
OMG Montclair
2:10 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Also, I love her Debt Reduction Plan to sell the 4th Ward to Bloomfield
Paine
2:23 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
RoC,
It worked when we all chipped in on the financial disclosure forms.
I don't have access to a legal database. Someone with access or know how could check to see if there is a lawsuit.
And, how am I being unfair? Being too public?
And your right, it could be a TV show, which is why I'm hoping someone with access would check.
Stuart Weissman
2:31 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
"Also, I love her Debt Reduction Plan to sell the 4th Ward to Bloomfield"
I fear, it wouldn't put a dent in it.
Terry Gorman
2:31 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Jeff,
"...right before falsely characterizing my For Montclair slate -- which has zero incumbents"
If your slate is so free from the influence of status quo incumbents, please answer the following questions; 1) Why did Harvey have his campaign rally party at former Mayor Ed Remson's house last night? 20 Why is Remson's campaign manager, treasurer, and communications guy all working on the For Montclair campaign? 3) Why did Harvey call Remson a central part of his brain trust as quoted in the Montclair Times? 4) Why was Harvey appointed to Zoning Board by Remson and why was Tim Barr appointed to the BOE by Remson? and 5) Why did Harvey recycle Remson's campaign logo from 2004?
While you have shown a good grasp of the issues and done a great job of detailing your positions on these sites, the same can't be said for Harvey and your running mates. While there may not be any incumbents on your slate, incumbent influence is absolutely there. Influence I might add, from one of Montclair's worst mayors in history.
Stuart Weissman
3:00 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
When Remsen blew 20 million on the Bullock School, at least we had a school to show for it. When Fried blew 10 million by not performing the reassessment sooner, Montclair got nothing for it. I agree Remsen was bad, but only half as bad as Fried. Then there was the whole extend my own term thing. Hoowah.
notroc
6:53 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Hey Stuart - $40 Million of Montclair's $220 Million debt outstanding is due to Bullock. But you really should read my response to your 12:37 post regarding whom blew what.
$10 Million was lost in tax appeals by my taxed enough already neighbors after the 2008 housing market crash. Learn your facts before trolling.
A. Gideon
7:03 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
It seems a little silly arguing who wasted the most money when we should instead be identifying the candidate who'd do the best job to eliminate further waste. We can argue about the past on Wednesday.
Still, with respect to the cost of the school, please see: http://www.thejerseytomatopress.com/stories/New-Montclair-School-comes-in-9-Million-Under-Budget,4906 and http://www.northjersey.com/news/101882538_Bullock_School_construction_well_under_budget.html
I myself would much rather spend money on a school than on refunds because a council chose to postpone the obviously necessary reassessment following the crash in housing prices.
...Andrew
Stuart Weissman
8:57 am on Tuesday, May 8, 2012
notroc,
I am not trolling and I know my facts. Had the town reassessed two years earlier, they would have saved about ten million dollars. My wife, an expert in this area, requested the town do this repeatedly and the professionals on the council (who to this day don't understand the process) was told we couldn't by someone they were not willing to name. Some towns revalue every year to avoid appeals. Instead of learning how other towns were avoiding the massive losses due to appeals, Fried was focused on Safe Streets and the great Chinese Cultural and Economical Exchange. In the end, Montclair had to bond to pay for the defense of the appeals and the refunds and the county gets to review every new town hire in exchange for the exception to the new law that says towns cannot bond to pay for appeals. In other towns, such as Glen Ridge, it's much more common for the town to accept appeal requests without going to hearing which saves legal costs and the county portion. In Montclair, they like to go to hearing and it costs the town tons. But, that's what happens when you think everyone down at Claremont is the tits, when actually many of them are hopelessly incompetent.
Tell it Straight
3:01 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Dead Zone, Terry isn't on any meds, he just drinks alot after a tough day on the golf course. This is the same MGC flunkie who called me out for exposing an e-mail blast that went out to the members asking them to endorse Karen Turner and the RPM slate. He told the 20 or 30 people who read this two bit blog that ''no e-mail was ever sent, it does not exist'' After, i put the e-mail [written by a shelly Phillips] on this blog, he said it was only sent to friends. [It is against club policy to solicit the club membership] Another crock of s_ _ _. Either way, poor Terry, who according to other MGC members doesn't always have his wits about him, if you know what i mean. Please forgive him, he knows not what he says, most of the time
Proud Dem
3:05 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Paine,
You probably overheard a conversation about Jackson's company, Lorterdan Properties being sued by the Jehovah's Witnesses for fraud and breach of contract. If I was able to find it, I'm sure Turner's campaign people know about it, too. The difference here, is that RPM hasn't mentioned one word about it, while Jackson's people have railed her with distortions and lies. Just sayin' .
Right of Center
3:07 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
phase 2, right on schedule!
notroc
6:43 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
You've got it 180 degrees backward, "Dem". Somehow I'm not surprised. Mr. Jackson's company is suing the Jehova's Witnesses for their attempt to misappropriate a $21 Million property through fraud and crafty lawyering. Nice church, huh?
Right of Center
3:11 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
" I'm sure Turner's campaign people know about it, too."
And For Montclair knows nothing about it?
hmmmm?
professorishor
3:16 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Terry Gorman--I have criticized the honorable Mr. Jackson for unwisely raising a race issue, perhaps you failed to notice, and criticized Mr. Susswein for some paragraphs on Ms. Turner in his open letter--perhaps you ignored that too. I also asked you to call all candidates to find out for yourself if I work for any candidate, as you suggested, but you prefer innuendo to evidence on this. The bright and hardworking Ms. Turner has gone over the line more than any other candidate in this campaign and has apologized for none of it. This is bad for the civic life of the town. It continues the unnecessary divisions in town provoked by Mrs. Lombard's gratuitious BOE cuts. Town life is being strained by such divisive leadership. Ms. Turner's aggressively negative campaign is extreme for a media market this small, which is why it draws my attention and criticism. I've called several times for an end to insults and a debate on the merits/plans of each candidate.
Terry Gorman
3:31 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Prof,
Not saying that you haven't criticized either of the other two mayoral candidates, but I have not seen it. I also think I indicated that you supported a candidate, not that you worked for one. I did respond to a previous post from regarding issues, etc. including an acknowledgement that you are an excellent advocate for our public schools, but never did see a response to that. If I missed it, I apologize.
As for Ms. Turner going over the top more than any other, there I respectfully disagree. While having the kids hand out flyers might not have been such a good idea, it wasn't up to her whether or not they would get "credit". It was an educator that would have to make that call. The "Moms" ad? There is no rule that says a person can't indicate they are a member of the PTA when endorsing a candidate. RPM didn't bring race into this election, Mr. Jackson did. I fail to see how "they went over the line" more than any other candidate. But, I will be happy to discuss it with you in a civil manner.
I'm done responding to those clowns "Dead Zone" and "Tell it Straight" , they bring nothing to the debate.
Terry Gorman
4:23 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
"called out by those of us who know racism!"
Indeed. You've demonstrated how well you know racism today with your slanderous, racists comments about the Irish, on this thread, today.
Shelley Emling
4:38 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
I've said it before and I'll say it again.. please be courteous, respectful, and stick to the issues. There's no reason people can't disagree with one another respectfully. I've seen my three kids do it.
Meg Beattie Patrick
4:53 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Here's Turner speaking on slashing the Library and the Arts and trees, oh my.... http://www.montclair2012.com/karen_turner_in_her_own_words_on_the_library_the_arts_and_trees?recruiter_id=27325
Terry Gorman
5:11 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Meg,
So that's your "smoking gun"? You provide a 30 second portion of a presentation to the council asking various questions about the library, including raising money through a shared services agreement with other towns. Aren't shared services a focal point of your slates platform? She questions whether we need to plant more trees or can't we get by with the trees that the town already has while deciding between "need to have and nice to have". Oh the horror! Surely this woman is the devil.
That's seriously what you've got?
Paine
6:00 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Cary gave me the search watchtower lorterdan, which brings up several stories:
http://www.freeminds.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3120:the-strange-saga-of-lorterdan-properties-at-ramapo-v-watchtower-of-new-york&catid=33:business&Itemid=348
According to pacer.gov, there appears to be an open lawsuit between Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Inc. and Lorterdan Properties at Ramapo I, LLC
Where’s Linda Moss when you need her? It looks like a serious real estate lawsuit. Maybe above Patch and Baristanet. Or, why don’t you give it a try Walleroo and RoC?
notroc
6:34 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Paine -
Oh, so on the eve of the election, you try to start a libelous rumor offensive about an impending lawsuit, which ends up being a rich (they expect to sell their current Brooklyn HQ for over $1 Billion) and powerful church trying to steal a $21 Million 250-acre piece of development property owned by one of the candidate's businesses? What, IBM, KPMG, Fox and Anderson don't sue or get sued?? Thanks a lot, "Real Progress" troll.
Mara Novak
9:25 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
And here you are Paine, stirring up something, just as ROC predicted. And still unwilling to post under your real name. What makes you better than any of the other nameless maroons on this blog? You asked us to take your endorsements seriously. Hard to take anything you say seriously.
Tell it Straight
6:15 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Meg, good stuff on that video. I f she were discussing both those subjects today, she would do a complete reversal. If you listen carefully, it's not only what she says, it is the tone she uses, which is clearly dismissive. Don't worry about anything Tery has to say, it's 6:15, well into his happy hour.
Renter who can't afford Mtclr taxes
7:38 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Wow, folks. Get. A. Grip! I'm beyond....beyond over this. Behave, be courteous! We're all nighbors!
montclairgurl
10:05 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Maybe not. Some of these posters may not even live here. Hired guns can live anywhere.
OMG Montclair
8:01 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Are you sure that this was the NY Times and not the Onion
Karen Turner is quoted as wanting to put 6 year old students on NJ Transit Buses to save money for the schools transportation?
Montclair's Own
8:09 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
My oh my, what has this town become? The reason I moved here is being replaced by the reason I will leave...a population of me-firsters, nimby "liberals" and raging tea-party conservatives. If only this town reflected the ideals I thought it once did. Very sad.
Stuart Weissman
9:49 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
Don't fret. Come tomorrow night, we will all go back to pretending we are friends again.
Prof. Roy Bittan
9:52 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
I've been monitoring these sites for the last few days and have grown incredibly tired with the outlandish attacks on the integrity of Karen Turner and her supporters. Based on some earlier posts I have done a little digging and look what I have found. I have a link about a lawsuit that Robert Jackson is involved in regarding his company Lorterdan Properties. Jackson is being sued and is suing in turn the Jehovahs Witnesses, in this case called The Watchtower Bible and Track Society of New York.
I believe this information merits a read. Jackson has been promoting the idea that his commercial real estate skills ideally position him to help Montclair grow if he gets elected.
How could that be the case if one of his biggest deals has gone south and could drive him into bankruptcy.
In addition it appears Jackson was unable to manage $11 million dollars that was entrusted to him in the real estate deal with the Jehovah Witnesses. When the Jevovah's came for their money the money was gone. How can he be expected to manage our town's finances if he can't manage his own.
Also if this lawsuit goes as expected Jackson will be driven out of business. How can we elect a mayor whose company is about to be or could be bankrupt. Does this mean he would get a job from the Essex County political machine? The rumor is that the county will take care of him no matter what. Very Scary. Please see for yourself
Prof. Roy Bittan
9:53 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
(continued)
http://www.freeminds.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3120:the-strange-saga-of-lorterdan-properties-at-ramapo-v-watchtower-of-new-york&catid=33:business&Itemid=348
Danielle
4:16 pm on Monday, May 14, 2012
Your comment is very misleading. The Jehovahs Witnesses behaved very badly here as your own linked describes. The tone of your comment is quite bazaar & clearly a cheapshot.
OMG Montclair
10:03 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
roy, I knew I would find you here, freeminds is a website to fight cults, how appropriate for a RPM supporter, it will come in handy if we get a turner term
But for lawsuits, try lexisnexus and it will show you that the suit was settled in jackson's favor in 2009
Adam
11:21 pm on Monday, May 7, 2012
The link referenced shows the case to be on-going. Jackson owes some people some serious dough.