Berkeley Heights faces a pivotal moment. With decisions ahead that will shape our community’s future, it’s imperative to elect township council members who bring expertise and a genuine commitment to the well-being of its residents. I, Edmund Tom Maciejewski, am presenting myself as your candidate for the Berkeley Heights Township Council. Let me tell you about my qualifications and why qualifications matter.
Why Qualifications Matter in Local Politics
Local politics should be non-partisan. National politics, while significant, are not immediately relevant when determining who is best suited to oversee our town’s budget or protect it from overdevelopment. At the local level, what truly matters is a candidate’s ability to understand complex legal documents, analyze budgets, interact with developers, and grasp the intricate details of town management. In essence, we need the most qualified individual, not just a popular face or a party affiliate.
In my eyes, the responsibility of a council member goes beyond party politics. It requires a dedication to understanding the intricacies of our town’s challenges and opportunities. Over the past 7+ years, I have diligently followed the town’s proceedings, diving deep into legal documents, meeting notes, contracts, budgets, bills, and discussions. It’s this hands-on experience and expertise that I believe sets me apart.
My Qualifications:
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Background as a Chemical Engineer.
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20+ years of experience in Finance and Tech.
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Intensive study of Berkeley Heights’ affairs for 7+ years, including extensive reviews of town documents.
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Ability to manage large teams, budgets, and coordinate with professionals across sectors.
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Pioneered live streaming of town council and Board of Education meetings for transparency.
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Founded the Berkeley Heights Community forum on Facebook, promoting community discourse.
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Active membership in civic organizations like NJ Fog, NJ Taxpayer Association, and Citizens Improving Affordable Housing.
Berkeley Heights’ Current Financial Situation
Our town has accumulated significant debt, much of which arises from the new municipal building. The responsibility of servicing this debt rests on the residents. Striking a balance between the taxpayer’s burden and the town’s needs is paramount. Reducing wasteful spending that produces minimal benefit to the residents should be avoided.
Elections: Qualification Over Party Affiliations
When you step into the ballot booth, remember that the person you’re voting for will directly impact your life, your taxes, and the future of Berkeley Heights. This election, I urge you to prioritize qualifications over party politics or personal friendships. After all, the ideal candidate for the job should be the most qualified one.
My Pledges:
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Prioritize Berkeley Heights’ residents over party politics.
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Oppose overdevelopment, keep future apartments to a minimum and work to evaluate the implications of ongoing projects.
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Limit the abuse of the Redevelopment Law and eliminate PILOTs/ Tax Abatements that pad developer profits using taxpayer subsidies
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Maintain transparency and involve the public in major decision-making processes.
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Commit to independent and informed decision-making for each vote.
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Maximize the efficiency of tax dollars and reduce wasteful spending.
Berkeley Heights is on the cusp of significant changes, and I firmly believe that my qualifications and commitment position me as a top choice for the council seat. This election isn’t about national politics or affiliations; it’s about ensuring the best future for our beloved town.
I kindly request your support by voting for the Mondragon and Maciejewski campaign. Column B 8B and 9B on Nov 7th, 2023.
Warm regards, Edmund Tom Maciejewski (9B)
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