URGENT - ATTEND TONIGHT!

[Marc LeVine]

We have gotten wind of a possible disruption by advocates at tonight's Rental Property Advisory Committee presentatin before the Mayor & Council.

We need you all to attend the meeting and to bring along ANYONE you can find to fill the room in support of the committee's work.

The committee needs some loud applause and the advocates deserve some even louder Boos, to show them thatthe voters in this town control its destiny, not the special interest groups. Remember, the committee is only recommending things that will help control the abuses of bad landlords and inconsiderate tenants. They need your approval and support in their efforts to protect your tax dollars and property values.

Please...skip TV tonight and come to this very important meeting. Show us ALL who we are fighting for - YOU!!!!

Marc

[leelye]

Marc,

Unfortunately, I cannot make tonight's council meeting due to a previous engagement. Please know that I will be there in spirit. If anyone can keep us posted as to the outcome I would really appreciate it. Thanks.

Leelye

[admin]

Leelye and Calliope,

I wish that both of you were there tonight and I can tell you that the spirit was high. I know that both of you were there tonight with us, in spirit.

There were at least eight PEOPLE supporters and several others who share our views. The room had a nice size crowd to it.

Maureen Haley and the Rental Advisory committee did a fantastic job. The recommendations were presented by Ms. Haley and she was excellent. Our own Marie Chapman is a member of that committee. There should be a good write up in the News Transcript about this, so I will withhold the recommendations until the article is printed.


See my post about the great news from the first aid squad.

There was plenty of much needed positives in tonights meeting. As I always write, the future of Freehold belongs to those of us who are moving ahead with a great sense of optimism.

[Marc LeVine]

Maureen Haley and the Rental Advisory committee did a fantastic job. The recommendations were presented by Ms. Haley and she was excellent.

Yes, Maureen and the committee did a terrific job. And, might I add, almost the entire committee membership turned out for the presentation. Only Augie Daesener was absent due to a family illness. He sent along his personal apologies and his good wishes to all, by way of the Mayor.

Let me also say that our local illegal immigration advocates were well represented at last night's meeting. Committee member, Frank Freyre (he separate from his committee) sat among a small group that included Stan Organek, a Freehold Township resident, who has been very vocal in the newspapers regarding his pro-illegal immigration stance in the Borough.

It is very obvious why these people were in attendance. They were there to access the newspaper reporters and attempt to publicly demonize the committee's recommendations and the council's call for them. The intent of these individuals was to temper the town's enthusiasm regarding the possible implementation of any recommendations that might have a positive impact on curbing illegal immigration in Freehold Borough.

We already know this to be true, because - ahead of last night's meeting - committee member Frank Freyre submitted a letter to Clare Celano at the News Transcript, opposing some of the recommendations. He had promissed (Maureen Haley) to provide his letter ONLY to the Mayor and Council, but apparently failed to keep his word. His insatiable appetite for placing negative Boro PR in the local newspapers, obviously won out.

To this end, it might be a good idea to send your own letters, in support of the committee recommendations, to the News Transcript and Asbury Park Press, immediately. There is little doubt that any coverage that these papers give to last night's meeting will include some, less than encouraging statements, from Freyre, Organek, Baldwin and others. It is much better that your letters arrive at the papers (ASAP) in support of the recommendations, rather than to wait to serve only as defensive rebuttals for the committee's extroardinary efforts. The more letters sent to the editors, the better.

As for the attendance, it was good, but it should have been much better for such an important issue as this. True, it WAS a very cold night and advance word of the meeting may not have reached the whole town. Maybe I'm a dreamer, but meetings like this one and like last week's BOE meeting should have been SRO. On the other hand, the people who DID attend last night's meeting are among our most well informed and most active residents. It was definitely good to see those of you who came to support the committee.

And, now we move forward with the recommendations as part of Council discussion. Your support is still appreciated during this phase. There are some tough decisions to be made...and we must make them, with your encouragement.

Thank you.

Marc

[LS]

But how can anyone write a letter in support without knowing what the recommendations are?

And there is a lot of chatter about who was there, but did these advocates say anything? Did they get a copy of the report before it was given to the council?

And these are just recommendations, right? so what is the next stage?

Oh, yeah, why do we have to wait until the transcript reports on this if people hear know the contents? Why can't the report be posted here, or at least a synopsis be provided?

and can Marc explain what he wrote here:

" - ahead of last night's meeting - committee member Frank Freyre submitted a letter to Clare Celano at the News Transcript, opposing some of the recommendations. He had promissed (Maureen Haley) to provide his letter ONLY to the Mayor and Council, but apparently failed to keep his word. His insatiable appetite for placing negative Boro PR in the local newspapers, obviously won out."

What else was provided? Did he speak out, or was it just that some of his friends were there? The whole subject is being approached rather mysteriously here.

[fedup]

LS said:

But how can anyone write a letter in support without knowing what the recommendations are?

Anyone who attended the meeting last night knows what they are.

And there is a lot of chatter about who was there, but did these advocates say anything?

Not within the context of the Council meeting.

Did they get a copy of the report before it was given to the council?

It is probably safe to assume that Mr. Freyre shared the committee's report with his cohorts, in advance of the meeting.

And these are just recommendations, right? so what is the next stage?

Yep, just recommendations. It is up to the Mayor and Council to act on them, or not.

[Marc LeVine]

But how can anyone write a letter in support without knowing what the recommendations are?

I'll post the recomendations on PEOPLE, for those unable to make the meeting. However, there were enough people in attendance, last night, to fire up their PCs and fire off some good letters.

And there is a lot of chatter about who was there, but did these advocates say anything? Did they get a copy of the report before it was given to the council?

Of course, Frank Freyre, as part of the committee, has had the recommendations in hand for weeks. He and his guests were quiet, but he already had made his objections known to the Transcript prior to the meeting. In doing so, he breached his agreement with the committee chair. And, with past experience as the best teacher - We know we've seen this all before and know the advocate's agenda and their operating style.

So, supporting letters to the editor (for those agreeing with the recommendatons) is like Chicken Soup, it can't hurt.

And these are just recommendations, right? so what is the next stage?

Of course. They now fall to Mayor & Council to consider. We are already doing some of the things on the list; other things we may not be able to do; and the remaining items may be a "go" upon consideration. No different than how recommendations are handled by anyone considering them. Support is always a help, when it is there. Bottom-line, the committee did a good job. They covered many basis, calling upon many resources.

Oh, yeah, why do we have to wait until the transcript reports on this if people hear know the contents? Why can't the report be posted here, or at least a synopsis be provided?

I will post them here. It's disrespectful to do so until after the presentation is made. As soon as I get a chance, I'll put them up.

and can Marc explain what he wrote here:

" - ahead of last night's meeting - committee member Frank Freyre submitted a letter to Clare Celano at the News Transcript, opposing some of the recommendations. He had promissed (Maureen Haley) to provide his letter ONLY to the Mayor and Council, but apparently failed to keep his word. His insatiable appetite for placing negative Boro PR in the local newspapers, obviously won out."

I think what happened is very clear. He did not keep his word and went behind the committee's back.

What else was provided? Did he speak out, or was it just that some of his friends were there? The whole subject is being approached rather mysteriously here.

No mystery...only anticipation. He wouldn't have broke his agreement with the chair to give his letter to the press if he didn't want to stir up some publicity and controversy. We've seen this before in Human Relations. Those that want the committee's recommendatios to succeed have a chance to support it in the local papers and fend off any potential negative attacks.

Marc

[Marc LeVine]

Intro to the Recommendations:

I. PURPOSE

This committee was established in December of 2005 to review the status of rental housing in the Borough; to research potential solutions to problems which affect the health, safety and welfare of tenants and the community at large; to serve as advisors in this area to the Code Office and Borough Council; and to make recommendations to the Council regarding rental housing.

II. Committee members

Committee members include homeowners, renters, landlords and realtors.

Marie Chapman

August Daesener

Frank Argote-Freyer

Maureen Haley (Chairperson)

Lisa Kristiansen

Marc Levine (Council Representative)

Barbara Oliver

Angela Smith

Richard Sobin

III. Invited guest speakers

Henry Sryker, Code Enforcement Official

Ed Mack, Lakewood Code Enforcement Official

Ron Simoncini*___________________?

Connie Pascale, Housing and Community Development Network of NJ

IV. SUBJECT/SCOPE OF DISCUSSIONS

Topics included, but were not limited to:

Landlord/tenant education
Rent control
Overcrowding
100% inspections
Absentee landlords
Examination of policies of other municipalities facing overcrowding and landlord absenteeism
Neglect of properties
Ways to encourage responsible homeownership
Fines and penalties for violations
Faith in current systemic* response to quality of life issues
Possible ban on renting to undocumented immigrants
Effectiveness/expansion of Code Enforcement
V. Findings

According to our Code Enforcement Office, there were 1900 rentals in the Borough in December of 2005. Approximately 95% of these properties are owned by absentee landlords. Absenteeism contributes to overcrowding, neglect of property, and exploitation of tenants.
Overcrowding
Strains our schools.
Strains municipal services.
Places a significant burden on our code enforcement personnel.
The anonymity and transience of residents in an overcrowded home degrades a sense of community in a neighborhood.
Neglect, which often coexists with overcrowding, causes the following HEALTH AND safety concerns:
Unsanitary conditions
Insect/vermin infestation
Structural wear and tear
Plumbing overuse
Fire hazards, both from electrical misuse/overuse, and from poor or nonexistent ingress and egress
A landlord’s NEGLECT is often a nuisance or hardship to neighboring residents, and is detrimental to the appearance of a neighborhood.

TENANTS MAY BE EXPLOITED in the following ways:
They may be charged inflated rental prices
Their quality of life is negatively affected when property is neglected.

[Marc LeVine]

RECOMMENDATIONS FROM RENTAL PROPERTY ADVISORY COMMITTEE TO FREEHOLD BOROUGH COUNCIL

This Committee was formed to examine issues relating to Borough rental properties. Issues examined include exploitation of tenants, overcrowding, neglecting to maintain interior and/or exterior of rental properties, and otherwise compromising the health, safety and welfare of the community. Rent control, a concept which was studied by this Committee, was not found to be an effective tool with which to combat the problem of overcrowding.

Our recommendations follow:

1. (Adopted) Institute mandatory annual inspections of all Borough rental properties. This will allow code enforcement officers access to rental properties on a regular basis.

2. Hire additional, well-trained support staff and inspectors in the Code Enforcement Office. This would enable the Office to perform inspections in Recommendation 1, and to handle Quality of Life complaints thoroughly and in a timely manner.

3. Ensure that tracking methods currently in use are efficient for following up on complaints and violations. The more time Code Enforcement staff has to spend on data entry, the less time they have to inspect and address emergencies and complaints. Records should be capable of being accessed quickly at all stages of the process.

4. Review and update all ordinances on the books with the purpose of enforcing ALL of them. It is the Committee's opinion that strict, vigorous, non-discriminatory enforcement of all ordinances, while not always done at present, will go a long way toward alleviating undesirable conditions. This will be facilitated by the hiring of additional staff (Recommendation 2).

5. Increase fines for violations of Borough codes and ordinances. These fines should reflect the severity of the offense. This increase in revenue could offset the cost of Recommendation 2.

6. Levy fines for every violation occurring simultaneously, rather than fining for one violation only.

7. Discontinue the practice of fining only one owner in a multiply-owned residence. Fine each owner, thereby increasing revenue and further inconveniencing landlord(s). Similarly, in the case of overcrowding, a fine should be issued for EACH resident occupying the premises beyond the legal limit.

8. For landlords whose properties are overcrowded, request jail or community service. Post names of landlord offenders in the newspapers in order to discourage future offenders. Forward offenders’ names to the IRS and NJS Division of Taxation (landlord is likely not reporting the income from all tenants), as well as to their mortgage company and insurer.

9. Institute restitution measures against landlords who violate ordinances. For example, require landlord to 1) reimburse a tenant for relocation expenses upon issuance of overcrowding violation; 2) reimburse the school district for children of illegally-housed tenants who wrongfully attend our schools. In the case of fire in an overcrowded or otherwise unsafe unit, landlord should be forced to reimburse the Borough for its remediation expenses.

10. Ensure that each residence has sufficient property and casualty insurance coverage. Proof of sufficient insurance can be presented during landlord registration.

11. Increase fines for each repeat occurrence of a violation. For subsequent overcrowding violations, revoke certificate of occupancy and/or landlord registration. Require landlords with prior violations to post bond with the Borough. Place a lien on the property when landlord has outstanding fines due to the Borough.

12. “Deputize” public works employees (sanitation, recycling, fire inspectors, water/sewer, streets) to report possible violations by calling in suspicious evidence to the Code Enforcement Office.

13. Engage in purposeful, continuous methods to educate both landlords and tenants. The Committee believes that well-informed residents who know their rights can prevent abuses. Also, an education program will prevent tenants from claiming ignorance of the law. Such methods may include:

A) Distribute the booklet “Truth in Renting” at registration, in English and Spanish, to landlords. Include in this booklet, in English and Spanish, the following statement: “tenants not listed by name on lease risk eviction by landlord.” Standardize a rental lease for the Borough which includes a tenant signature, stating that they have read and that they understand the booklet. This should be kept on file in a Borough office.

B) Organize an annual rental forum for landlords and tenants. Engage the Human Relations Committee in this endeavor. Use churches (St. Rose of Lima, New Beginnings), Nosotros, and the schools to disseminate information. These ideas can be carried out at limited expense to the Borough.

C) Compile checklist of building/property maintenance items which will be inspected annually. Distribute with water bill to ALL properties (resident homeowners and landlords).

D) Landlords should receive ample and regular notice of penalties for committing code violations.

E) Add an additional bi-lingual staff member in the Office of Code Enforcement (see Recommendation 2).

This Committee recognizes that many of the problems with rental properties in Freehold occur in units that are owned by absentee landlords. Many of the preceding recommendations will serve to discourage landlord absenteeism by inconveniencing, embarrassing and financially burdening negligent landlords when violations occur.

In conjunction with discouraging absenteeism, the Committee feels is it necessary to encourage responsible home ownership. This involves making the Freehold community attractive to families and other potential homebuyers who will want to live here, and who will take pride in the appearance and condition of their property. Maintaining the safety and attractive appearance of our homes, as well as the beauty of our town itself, will go a long way toward encouraging home ownership, upholding property value, and keeping harmony amongst residents.

To this end, the Committee recommends:

14. Establishing forums for potential homebuyers, and for our senior citizens (to encourage them to stay in Freehold). Again, the Human Relations Committee could take the lead in organizing such forums.

Finally, the Committee has considered an ordinance which has been proposed or adopted by several towns across the nation to combat overcrowding and its ensuing conditions. This ordinance requires anyone renting an apartment or home to produce valid proof of citizenship or permanent residency. It is the Committee's opinion that

15. this ordinance merits consideration by the Council for adoption, pending review of its enforceability by the courts. Recent developments in our Borough (as well as in other towns which have proposed the ordinance) must be considered, together with potential legal challenges which may result from such adoption.

RENTAL PROPERTY ADVISORY COMMITTEE: Frank Argote-Freyer, Marie Chapman, August Daesener, Maureen Haley, Lisa Kristiansen, Barbara Oliver, Richard Sobin. Council Representative: Marc Levine.

[LS]

At first glance (because at this point, I have only really skimmed it), it seems pretty straight forward and non-discriminatory. In fact, even mentions that "people" (read "hispanics") are exploited by unscrupulous landlords. The main thrust is to punish (really punish) offenders and even has an outreach program.

Can't wait to see what Frank's problem is with the report, because I don't an immigrant take on this.

There may be other problems, such as enforcement of insurance on a home, and the legaliuty of revoking a C.O. or holding 5 landowners responsible individually, but these are problems for lawyers to figure out.

As a taxpayer, it seems that it might be expensive (but who knows) plus you have to weigh any expenses with a better, cleaner community. (are we still alllowed to say "clean"? because I didn't mean it in any Joe Biden type of way)

[fiberisgoodforyou]

LS said:

There may be other problems, such as enforcement of insurance on a home, and the legaliuty of revoking a C.O. or holding 5 landowners responsible individually, but these are problems for lawyers to figure out.

If there was a furnace with known, ongoing violations, blew up, and all in the house died, all 5 individual owners each, can be charged with involuntary manslaughter, if there was a history.... if you are listed as a property owner, your on the hook, if the prosecutor wanted too!!!

further it would be the municipalities du-diligence, with known ongoing violations, to recall the CO, and have the premises vacated...at the land Lord expense...including ....suppling the temporary housing for the tenants at the land lords expense!!!

[Marc LeVine]

I got hold of Frank's letter (below), that he also gave out to the press, in advance of last night's meeting.

I can understand and even appreciate two of the points he is making. One is regarding semantic that can be/should be changed ("deputize"). Poor choice of words by the author. "Empower" might have been better.

As for the other point he makes, with respect to item #15, I would expect him to oppose this one, in principle.

As for his group's monitoring of the inspections for possible civil rights violations...this, was someting he never brought to the committee table for discussion. He should have. Perhaps, the committee would have discussed putting a complaint procedure in place - for everyone!

And, Frank's "end run" on the committee after agreeing to ONLY present the letter to the Mayor (and, instead,giving it to the Press) is unforgivable.

Marc
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mayor Michael Wilson

Freehold Borough

February 2, 2007

Dear Mayor Wilson:

By way of this letter, I wish to inform you and the members of the Borough Council of my strong objection to several recommendations made by the Rental Property Advisory Committee.

Before I list my objections let me thank you and the council for appointing me to the committee. I also wish to salute my fellow committee members for working very hard to come up with this report.

My most strenuous objection deals with recommendations #15 which urges you and the Borough Council to consider the adoption of an ordinance that would prohibit the rental of apartments to undocumented immigrants. I urge you and the Borough Council to reject this proposal for a variety of reasons.

First, it would turn borough landlords into immigration officials, a role that would place an unjust burden on them and which would have a discriminatory impact on some renters.

Second, the language of the recommendation is divisive and would contribute to the ongoing tension between the governing body and the borough’s Latino community. Furthermore, such an ordinance is very likely unconstitutional and the support of the governing body would serve absolutely no useful purpose.

Finally, with regards to recommendation #15, immigration is a national issue and one that borough officials should stay away from because it causes deep divisions in our community. Regardless of your feelings on the immigration issue the acceptance of such a recommendation can serve no practical end.

Before concluding, let me make a few observations on two of the other recommendations. I agree with the concept of an ongoing rental inspection program, but I am concerned with the potential for civil rights violations. In an effort to monitor the borough’s respect for civil rights, the Latino Leadership Alliance of New Jersey has established a rental inspection complaint form. Violations of the civil rights of renters in the borough will be referred to area lawyers for action. We will specifically be looking for violation patterns.

The last point I wish to make deals with the word “deputize” in recommendation # 12. The word implies police powers would be given municipal workers other than police officers. This should not be done. I do not believe that was the intent of the committee, but I bring it to your attention for consideration.

Cordially,

Frank Argote-Freyre

[Marc LeVine]

Got hold of this..too.

Latino Leadership Alliance of

New Jersey – Monmouth Chapter

Freehold Housing Inspections

Complaint Form

Please submit the form to the offices of Hispanic Affairs, 12 Throckmorton Street, or the New Beginnings Agape Christian Center, 133 Throckmorton Street.

NAME:

ADDRESS:


DATE AND TIME OF INSPECTION:

DID YOU SIGN A RELEASE FORM IN SPANISH OR ENGLISH ALLOWING THE INSPECTION? EXPLAIN BELOW.

DID A POLICE OFFICER ENTER YOUR HOME WITH THE INSPECTOR?

WAS THE INSPECTOR COURTEOUS?

DO YOU HAVE ANY COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE WAY THE INSPECTION WAS PERFORMED?

(USE BACK OF THIS FORM TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION)

[Marc LeVine]

The headline should read: "Frank Meets Deadline AHEAD of Committee's Release of Recomendations." You be the judge. What did Frank gain by rushing this off to the NewsTranscript BEFORE the meeting? He and they (NT) attended the meeting. He just wanted the Byline for himself - his point uncontested.

Marc


Ban on renting to illegals may be requested
Advisory committee is aware this type of law has been challenged in other towns
BY MARK ROSMAN
Staff Writer

The Borough Council was expected to be asked on Feb. 5 to consider adopting an ordinance that would prohibit the renting of apartments to illegal aliens in Freehold Borough.

The Rental Property Advisory Committee was expected to make a series of recommendations to the council, according to Frank Argote-Freyre, a member of the advisory committee.

Argote-Freyre recognized his fellow committee members for working hard to come up with the report. He did, however, state his objection to the idea of asking landlords to check the immigration status of potential renters.

Specifically, the advisory committee's report to the council noted how some municipalities in the United States have enacted laws that "require anyone renting an apartment or home to produce valid proof of citizenship or permanent residency."

The advisory committee states it is its opinion that "this ordinance merits consideration by the council for adoption, pending review of its enforceability by the courts. Recent developments in our borough ... must be considered, together with potential legal challenges which may result from such adoption."

In a letter to Mayor Michael Wilson, Argote-Freyre said asking landlords to investigate a potential renter's immigration status "would turn borough landlords into immigration officials, a role that would place an unjust burden on them and which would have a discriminatory impact on some renters."

"Second, the language of the recommendation is divisive and would contribute to the ongoing tension between the governing body and the borough's Latino community. Furthermore, such an ordinance is very likely unconstitutional and the support of the governing body would serve absolutely no useful purpose.

"Finally, with regard to [this] recommendation, immigration is a national issue and one that borough officials should stay away from because it causes deep divisions in our community," Argote-Freyre wrote.

He touched on another recommendation that was expected to be made to the council. Argote-Freyre wrote, "I agree with the concept of an ongoing rental inspection program, but I am concerned with the potential for civil rights violations. In an effort to monitor the borough's respect for civil rights, the Latino Leadership Alliance of New Jersey has established a rental inspection complaint form. Violations of the civil rights of renters in the borough will be referred to area lawyers for action. We will specifically be looking for violation patterns."

[fiberisgoodforyou]

As a show of good faith, and community out reach, the Mayor uses keen judgment to appoint fair-minded community members to Boro committees.

Using privileged information is neither CIVIL NOR RIGHT!

FF should have resigned from this committee months ago, if he felt this strongly about the committees decision, rather than taking a course of disruptive, counter productive disrespect to all who serves on the rental board committee

[fiberisgoodforyou]

The headline should read: "Frank Meets Deadline AHEAD of Committee's Release of Recomendations." You be the judge. What did Frank gain by rushing this off to the NewsTranscript BEFORE the meeting? He and they (NT) attended the meeting. He just wanted the Byline for himself - his point uncontested."...[/i]

what was the NT's editor in cheif thinking?

I might start calling code enforcment about LITTER left by the NT on my side walk every tuesday!

[LS]

ohhh, how the heck did I miss #15...

I can see the language choice on the word "deputize," which in this case really meant that local people including employees of the town regardless of position should just keep an eye out for overcrowding or unsanitary conditions at a house.

And, as for the Latino Alliance, yeah, Frank Freyre was way off by not bringing this to the attention of the committee. That's just plain wrong, and it undermines his own committee. I have to agree that this smacks of upstaging the committee for newspaper recognition of himself and/or his organization.

[fiberisgoodforyou]

calliope said:

Franko is a Classic Megalomaniac.

Do NOT insult Megalomaniac's!!!

Whats interesting is I had a talk with an Assemblywoman last night, who is a former Red bank Council woman. We talked about the similar issues in Red Bank, over crowed homes and schools, and I FORGOT to bring out one POINT of interest!

Red Bank had never faced FF or a Latino Alliance! So I wonder, what is sooo fascinating about the Boro, the WE need to put up with the crap the FF and his minions bring us? Why have they not targeted Red Bank too, or Old Bridge and Sayreville, with their multitude of 1000 plus unit rental developments, too for that matter? FF would be the champion for the civil rights of ALL illegal aliens?

These phonies sicken me, and insult the intelligence of every sensible, HARD WORKING American!

Too bad there is no ability to file criminal charges for flagrant violation of the confidentiality entrusted to a standing community appointment!

This is why in the REAL WORLD, in The Business World, you are required to sign Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure agreements!

If this happened in a Publicly held corporations, the board members and the share holders would have EVERY RIGHT to have this person up on Felony charges!

IN his own words..."prohibit the rental of apartments to undocumented immigrants" an admission that these peolple are Felons, the legal definition of ILLEGAL, Undocumented Immigrants! FELONS...! So here Frank clearly states that the Boro should allow Land Lords to knowingly provide shelter and Harbor Felons!

This is not a Megalomaniac, this is a misguided resident disrespect with the intention to insight anarchy.

[fiberisgoodforyou]

"not retaliatory or adversarial, which would then engender further acts of misconduct and aggressive divisiveness?"

YOU ARE CORRECT....Iggy the Meglo, ... don't feed his hunger for attention and control, as this is the High Road the Meglo can not travel down!

As it is written.... Misery, be-gets Misery!

[Marc LeVine]

This then begs the question of how to deal with such an individual in a manner that is not retaliatory or adversarial, which would then engender further acts of misconduct and aggressive divisiveness?

Marginalize...Marginalize...Marginalize. Translation: Start Ignoring him.

Want to fight back...write back! How long does it take to write and mail a letter to the newspapers. Wake up people! Write the letter and remind everyone that a man, who put out over 700 flyers for Bike Safety Day ONLY rounded up three participants, is wasting newspaper ink when he says he "speaks for those who have no voice." More like those, who have no hearing!

Frank Fryre and his little band of misguided liberals represent no constituency, because the illegal immigrants in Freehold Borough follow no one who doesn't pay them off the books or allows them to share the rent with 12 other unrelated people.

The only time they acknowledge Frank and his cronies, at all, is when they need a FREE winter coat or when Panera Bread delivers free bagels to the Reformed Church on Saturday mornings. Stupid Americans!

Marc

[Marc LeVine]

Here's my contribution to the Nwes Transcript...where's yours?

On behalf of the Mayor and Council and the residents of Freehold Borough, I wish to congratulate and thank Chairwoman Maureen Haley and her Rental Property Advisory Committee for their dedicated effort in crafting a strong set of compliance recommendations. These are currently under reviewed by the governing body and its professionals. This committee, made up of several highly competent and deeply committed Freehold Borough residents, landlords and business people offered no reservations in taking on one of the most difficult challenges facing many American small towns, today - universal rental property code compliance.

In Freehold Borough and throughout our nation, the greed associated with illegal immigration, has transformed many of our more spacious, older homes into defacto boarding houses. These once charming and often historic family homes are often found to be overcrowded, unsafe for tenants and in violation of numerous property codes. Their ongoing decay has greatly diminished the quality of life in our long established, well maintained and, once, peaceful neighborhoods. Freehold Borough residents view the present situation as unsatisfactory. They insist that the town get tougher with non-compliant landlords and inconsiderate tenants, both of whom often ignore ordinances and make their neighbor's lives miserable.

In issuing its recommendations, the Freehold Borough's Rental Property Advisory Committee drew a line in the sand. During the past year, the committee carefully reviewed more than 300 news articles on rental and property maintenance issues and consulted with experienced code officials throughout the nation, who are addressing the same challenges. The committee members also received helpful suggestions from a few prominent NJ housing experts, who sympathized with Freehold's plight. Taking all of this into account, the committee sat down and discussed all of the data; considered many options; and worked very hard to produce a comprehensive and concise list of possible recommendations. They did their homework. Their recommendations are printed in ink, but are instilled with passion and resolve equal to only that of a dog with a bone.

While it is unclear how many and which of the committee's sixteen recommendations may actually be implemented (they are all curently under review), it is crystal clear that the entire town is behind this effort. Most of the Freehold Borough residents I have spoken with since the recommendations were released, view the committee report as a powerful stimulus for ratcheting up Freehold's code enforcement efforts to root out violations, wherever they are found. A hoped for byproduct of all of this is the restoration of community pride within all effected neighborhoods. While many of our residents hope for success, they can rest assured that town officials are planning for it. Bad landlords and their tenants may want to think twice about setting up shop in a town that is positioning itself to hit them very hard when they cross over the line.

The Rental Property Advisory Committee deserves the town's appreciation and additional support for continuing to lead the way. They have proved to us all that a group of average citizens just like you and me are quite capable of coming up with local solutions to local issues.

Marc LeVine
Council Liaison to the Rental Property Advisory
Committee
Freehold Borough

[admin]

I agree with Marc. I hope that at least some of you will write both the APP and the Transcript. I will be doing so as a PEOPLE spokesperson.

[fiberisgoodforyou]

Marc said:

Here's my contribution to the Nwes Transcript...where's yours?

In Freehold Borough and throughout our nation, the greed associated with illegal immigration, has transformed many of our more spacious, older homes into defacto boarding houses. These once charming and often historic family homes are often found to be overcrowded, unsafe for tenants and in violation of numerous property codes. Their ongoing decay has greatly diminished the quality of life in our long established, well maintained and, once, peaceful neighborhoods. Freehold Borough residents view the present situation as unsatisfactory. They insist that the town get tougher with non-compliant landlords and inconsiderate tenants, both of whom often ignore ordinances and make their neighbor's lives miserable.

And when there is a tragic fire, with dead burned up babies, you'll hear the cry...how did the boro let this happen, why did the Boro allow the over crowding, and cave into the wants of absentee landlords and absentee "Advocates"..

Marc...Right on the money!...Rental Advisory Committe..Good call, time for the Council to do the right thing and take action before...

[admin]

Marc said:

Here's my contribution to the NeWS Transcript...where's yours?

On behalf of the Mayor and Council and the residents of Freehold Borough, I wish to congratulate and thank Chairwoman Maureen Haley and her Rental Property Advisory Committee for their dedicated effort in crafting a strong set of compliance recommendations. These are currently under reviewed by the governing body and its professionals. This committee, made up of several highly competent and deeply committed Freehold Borough residents, landlords and business people offered no reservations in taking on one of the most difficult challenges facing many American small towns, today - universal rental property code compliance.

In Freehold Borough and throughout our nation, the greed associated with illegal immigration, has transformed many of our more spacious, older homes into defacto boarding houses. These once charming and often historic family homes are often found to be overcrowded, unsafe for tenants and in violation of numerous property codes. Their ongoing decay has greatly diminished the quality of life in our long established, well maintained and, once, peaceful neighborhoods. Freehold Borough residents view the present situation as unsatisfactory. They insist that the town get tougher with non-compliant landlords and inconsiderate tenants, both of whom often ignore ordinances and make their neighbor's lives miserable.

In issuing its recommendations, the Freehold Borough's Rental Property Advisory Committee drew a line in the sand. During the past year, the committee carefully reviewed more than 300 news articles on rental and property maintenance issues and consulted with experienced code officials throughout the nation, who are addressing the same challenges. The committee members also received helpful suggestions from a few prominent NJ housing experts, who sympathized with Freehold's plight. Taking all of this into account, the committee sat down and discussed all of the data; considered many options; and worked very hard to produce a comprehensive and concise list of possible recommendations. They did their homework. Their recommendations are printed in ink, but are instilled with passion and resolve equal to only that of a dog with a bone.

While it is unclear how many and which of the committee's sixteen recommendations may actually be implemented (they are all currently under review), it is crystal clear that the entire town is behind this effort. Most of the Freehold Borough residents I have spoken with since the recommendations were released, view the committee report as a powerful stimulus for ratcheting up Freehold's code enforcement efforts to root out violations, wherever they are found. A hoped for byproduct of all of this is the restoration of community pride within all effected neighborhoods. While many of our residents hope for success, they can rest assured that town officials are planning for it. Bad landlords and their tenants may want to think twice about setting up shop in a town that is positioning itself to hit them very hard when they cross over the line.

The Rental Property Advisory Committee deserves the town's appreciation and additional support for continuing to lead the way. They have proved to us all that a group of average citizens just like you and me are quite capable of coming up with local solutions to local issues.

Marc LeVine
Council Liaison to the Rental Property Advisory
Committee
Freehold Borough

Wheres Mine? Sent in to the NT and the APP. Posted on this site under the letters board.

I dare the rest of you to do the same

[LS]

Today's article from the APP, "Illegals would be barred as tenants under proposed law":

www.app.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007702080427

Funny, the one aspect of the report that I failed to initially read is the only part of the report that is getting any real attention. Also heard it on the local radio this morning.

[LS]

Unfortunately, Frank Freyre undermined the rest of the report which is, really, the larger picture. And instead of commending those areas that bent ove backwards and reached out to "his" community, he really slapped the face of the committee.

[Marc LeVine]

The editors of both newspapers directed their reporters to drill down on item 15. I heard this from the horse's mouth. Frank just anticipated correctly and gave them what they want. The "issue of our times" sells newspapers.

Just remember that the Council and the committee are less interested in the "fanfare" associated with the release of the recommendations, than they are about finding recommendations that make a difference. Item 1 is already adopted and that is the first feather in the committee's cap. We pushed for that one, very early.

The REAL story here is about Frank Freyre and his handling (mishandling) of his appointed role. This is the one thatreally needs to be brought out to the public, because the sooner we can all move past Frank and his antics, the quicker we can all devote our full energy to improving Freehold Borough. And, NO - this is not about ridding the town of Latinos and Frank's usual propaganda. That one is getting a little tired.

Let's face it - Frank brought the lawsuit to Freehold Borough. HE indirectly cost us all lots of lost time and money defending this frivolous albatross. Yes, HE invited all the pro illegal immigration groups to our town to oppose the closing of the muster zone. And now, he continues to stroke his inflated ego by playing with the whole town as an "un-elected nobody" dictating policy to the governing body. His leverage? An "I'm going to tell mommy" threat he loves to dangle in the wake of the settlement.

Let's all move on. Frank took his shot in the newspapers and he got his name published. Item 15 clearly recommends a wait and see approach that the entire nation has also adopted. So, there's no news story, there. The good news is that ALL of the recommendations are out in the open (published in today's Press) and a message is now sent to prospective property owners that Freehold Borough is going to take harder line on code enforcement. Anyone out there want to invest $400 - $500K to find out if you can get away with milking a slum? Some will think twice and that's what we want them to do.

If one "scum-lord" has already decided to look elsewhere to set up shop, the town has gained its first victory.

No, the real story here is about a disreputable man, who sabotaged the efforts of his own committee (his neighbors) and lied to his Chairwoman about his intent to keep his dissenting communications between the committee, council and himself (rather than to go to the press ahead of the committee presentation). Frank's credibility is shot and - this folks - may need to be reinforced in your subsequent letters to the editor.

POUND AWAY!

Marc

[fiberisgoodforyou]

FF'S comments in the paper where Editorializing, generally saved for OP-ED's not cover stories.

That is highly inappropriate, insulting and damaging this is NOT the way "NEWS" is covered!

Overlooked was the TOTALITY of the committees efforts, by a focus on what was most titillating and sensational!

MAYBE the news was snookered into overlooking the fact that there are 15 action items crafted, that support a tenants civil rights for a first class quality of life!

This is shameful....and exploitive, that there are 14 other items not mentioned AT ALL.

[Marc LeVine]

This is shameful....and exploitive, that there are 14 other items not mentioned AT ALL.

They are all published in today's Press for anyone, who cares to read about them. Actually, we are not interested in educating the whole world in what we learned. Let other towns set up their own committees. Our goals, here, have always been to set in motion what gets the job done in FB and also discourages the bad guys from operating here. Let's just keep our eyes on the BIGGER PICTURE.

...and have a little fun with Frank in the process...

Marc

[fiberisgoodforyou]

calliope said:

you mean try to "fry" him? ha ha!

Nhhaaa, thats mean.... given enough rope you know what always happens!

Quiet diplomacy always champions over aggressiveness on emotionally charged matters of the head and heart.

You attract more bees with honey than with Vinegar!

This is one reason we're stuck in the mud in Iraq!