To the editor:
Emerson is a relatively small suburban town that has been facing massive—perhaps unprecedented—change in the past few years. A highly controversial redevelopment project was pushed through by the previous administration in spite of public outcry that this would forever alter the fabric of our small community and create immense burdens on hard-working residents. Large sums were additionally spent on property acquisitions without a firm plan on how to use them, at a time when the borough was wrestling with decisions on how to update and upgrade Borough Hall and the police department.
In a highly contentious election last fall, voters voted loud and clear that they did not approve of the Democrat-heavy administration’s actions and vision, and they elected three well-respected Republicans to improve fiscal responsibility and proper oversight—with full transparency—moving forward.
Although national politics have certainly created some public distrust and disgust toward the Republican party, it is essential that Emersonians not carry any hard feelings over into our most local votes, because this year’s Republican council candidates are not politically motivated but instead are fully committed to working collaboratively to ensure the positive path forward maintains momentum and that proper attention is paid to balancing economics with maintaining the charm of The Family Town.
Councilwoman Jill McGuire has proven her dedication through tireless work preserving Emerson’s rich history (receiving state awards in the process), serving as a Recreation Commission liaison, launching the Street Smart NJ safety program, and getting council meetings televised for Emerson residents.
Nicole Argenzia is backed by one of the founding families of Emerson and has never rested on this rich heritage, and she has continuously dedicated her own time to public service as the borough’s Board of Health president, among other volunteer work.
Both women are raising children in this town while balancing careers that both involve working directly with populations in need—they understand and are proven winners in the fight to improve the lives of any town’s most important asset: its people. Let’s ensure this November that they can continue the positive momentum of the current administration and make the best decisions for the challenging road ahead.