Overdevelopment is the major issue in this election, and Cathy Paretti wants to settle with developers to allow a total of over 400 more homes in the Township. We campaigned in 2021 to fight these planned homes in the Township, as Chris Mullen plans to do after his election. Cathy cites legal costs in her attack letter. Yes, we are spending legal funds to fight overdevelopment and we will continue to do so.
Board of Commissioners President Trace Slinkerd was criticized in their letter, but he is not on the ballot. We respond to their allegations as follows:
Trace “silenced public questions”: Most townships, school boards, and boroughs have a time limit for public comments, and do not provide a response to them. Commissioners are always available to meet with residents to hear their detailed concerns. The Board majority makes these policies. Cathy and Dave know this.
“Trace appointed his own staff”: Trace meets with the Township manager, police chief, and public works director as well as with a second commissioner to understand issues and adjust the agenda for the next regular meeting. Cathy and Dave know this, and have participated in those meetings.
“Half the meetings are cancelled due to no need”: We plan two meetings each month; one for the regular meeting and a second one to be held only in case a quick action is needed. Cathy and Dave know this.
We don’t know what “has overridden Board votes” means. There are five Commissioners on the Board, with three constituting a majority. Trace only has one vote. Cathy and Dave know this.
The vote to sell the sewer system was in 2020. Cathy and Dave voted for the sale and shortly after that Dave made the final selection of the municipal building site. Resolutions 747 & 749 formally structured the sewer sale proceeds to debt elimination, pension security, and municipal site selection in 2022. Section 6 that they refer to gives the President the authority to sign documents and make minor decisions. Our solicitor explained this to them. This is the same authority section they voted for relevant to the sewer sale ordinance.
As for why there is competition to Cathy and Dave: it’s Cathy willingness to settle with developers, coupled with their position flipping on the municipal building and their caving in to a loud, small group. Commissioners represent all of the almost 6,000 residents of the Township, not just the ones who come to meetings and holler. We agree with Trace and with his performance as President. We are curious why Cathy and Dave don’t list their accomplishments or offer their solutions. Please come out and vote for Chris Mullen.
Commissioner Don Read and Commissioner Hank Llewellyn