Council Reorganization Meeting 1/03/10

[admin]

The reorg for the governing body is on Sunday January 3rd at 1 PM in borough hall. Even for people who do not go to many council meetings, I highly recommend attending this one. The reorg is a always a very positive and upbeat meeting where we see the council at their best.

Those planning on going should get there early as this is a well attended meeting. This meeting usually attracts many of the good people in our town who are active and donate their time toward making the town a better place.

[admin]

I have a hard copy of the agenda for the reorganization meeting. As always, there is a lot of good information to be found. I have begun updating this site to reflect the wonderful new year and will post more information in the future.

One very nice thing is that our Lieutenant Governor elect Kim Guadagno will give the oath of office to Sharon Shutzer and John Newman.

[Mike Rosseel]

www.scribd.com/doc/24658586/Agenda-2010-2

[admin]

Jan 2, 2010 19:40:41 GMT -5 Mike Rosseel said:

www.scribd.com/doc/24658586/Agenda-2010-2

Mike,

Thanks for the link, it is a big help and saves me a lot of typing.

Also, it looks like the Rosseel tradition of bettering the borough is alive and well. Congratulations on your appointment to the CIC. You will enjoy that committee and especially the people on it. They aer a good bunch and you will be involved with some fun projects. Jay Sims is a very good part of that crew. Or as I should say Council President Sims!

Brian

PS- If anyone has feedback about the council comments, it would make for some good posting. The council always does a really good job at this meeting.

[Mike Rosseel]

Thanks Brian!

First off Congrats to council president Jay Sims! We all know Jay will continue to do a amazing job and keep making Freehold Proud!

Sharon Shutzer gave a wonderful heart felt speech, she is such a classy lady and we are lucky to have her serve our town!

Mayor Mike Wilson, gave a great Freehold speech, the man is simply put a class act and a GREAT LEADER IN TOWN! I really feel we are lucky to have him as mayor! The rest of the council gave very nice speeches, Kane and Schurr did especially well! Newman gave a buisness like speech and the council welcomed him nicely. All in all a great event!

[lisas84]

I was there too. It was ebullient...all about positiveness, people and ideas. I was hearteningly infused with the strength and fortitude of all those who surrounded me and those at The Long Table.

Being inspired and motivated by others is priceless and must itself have a life of its own.

[admin]

In Freehold, where a Community Development Block Grant and state Department of Transportation grant will fund $600,000 worth of road and sidewalk repairs downtown, less state aid also tops the fiscal constraints list, Councilman Jaye Simms said.

But a plan to create a citizens budget committee that mirrors the county group, coupled with bringing in aid from the private and nonprofit sectors, could be just the ticket for trimming budgetary shortfalls, said newly elected John F. Newman, the sole Republican on the Township Council

The citizens budget committee helped to save the county millions of dollars," said Newman, 40, the first Republican to be elected to the governing body since 1998. Private and nonprofit sectors could "help get funds into the borough to help finance some of our programs."

www.app.com/article/20100103/NEWS/1030366/1285/LOCAL09/Colts+Neck++Freehold++Manalapan+organize+for+2010

[admin]

Though Mike posted the agenda for the meeting for everybody to read, there are a few good points worth mentioning. With the change on the council. itself, it was interesting to watch what council person would be assigned to fill in some of the slots.

First thing, I mentioned quite a while ago that those of us who know Marc Le Vine would not expect that he was going to just sit home and do nothing. It is predictable that he would stay involved with the town in some way. Marc picked up three very nice appointments- Community Information Committee, Neighborhood Pride, and the Rental Review Committee. Those appointments make sense, especially the CIC and NPC, the two committees he introduced as councilman. ( Ironically, concepts for both of those committees were discussed here on this site before they were established. )

I also noticed that Councilman Kevin Kane picked up the NPC. I believe Kane is a very good choice for this and will do a good job.

Of course, the big question was what will the new Councilman get? I always understood it that the newest council person gets the Memorial day parade and shade tree. Maybe I was wrong in that assumption? I do know that Shnurr enjoys those two.

Councilman Newman actually received some really good appointments. He is on the Code Enforcement, Rental review, finance, Library, and Historic preservation. One interesting note is that Newman was on the rental recommendation committee when it first started. he did not stay on with it, but got it started. It is good to see him back on this topic and many of the people on that committee will already know him.

Also, I have to give a shout out to site reader Kevin Asadi. He and I served on CIC together and I see that he is on the Planning Board as an alternate. Congrats, Kevin, you will do well.

[Mike Rosseel]

Brian,

Do we know why Newman didnt stay on the committee? Just found that interesting!

Also, i think everyone forgot to thank the council for bringing back Olde Freehold day!

[admin]

AS mentioned in previous posts, I really like to get council comments from the reorg meeting up here. I reached out to a couple of council members to see if they would share some thoughts with us.

I did receive a response from Council President Jaye Sims. Very typical of Jaye, his comments were short, sweet and to the point. Jaye congratulated both Sharon Shutzer and John Newman for their election victories. Jaye also thanked the mayor and council for his appointment as the Council President for this year.

Jaye mentioned how dedicated he is to this town and will continue to work hard to fulfill the duties of his position. Anyone who knows Jaye is aware of how true this is.

Jaye also mentioned and thanked all of the borough employees who operate this town and believes they are such a vital part of the towns success.

Lastly, Jaye brought up his desire to increase volunteerism in the borough. Readers of this site will recall that Jaye brought the concept of the Volunteer fair to the CIC. Unfortunately, the weather did not cooperate and the fair never happened, it was rained out twice. Jaye promised that this year it will get done. I do not doubt it, the response to the Volunteer fair was very impressive.

[admin]

Jan 5, 2010 8:42:17 GMT -5 Mike Rosseel said:

Brian,

Do we know why Newman didnt stay on the committee? Just found that interesting!

Also, i think everyone forgot to thank the council for bringing back Olde Freehold day!

You will have to ask Newman that question, I do not want to put words into his mouth.

You mention Olde Freehold Day. They said that we would get it last year at the reorg and for unknown reasons, it never happened. Is there talk about it this year? I hope so! That would be great to see.

[lisas84]

I don't know, maybe CouncilNewman's committee appointments were based on smart personnel management. CouncilNewman has a keen professional brain, being an attorney, and is trained to think in highly organized manners. His educational and professional background may be well suited to lead the committees to which he is appointed.

I also believe that Councilman Kane is perfect to lead the continued efforts of the NPC. He did a stellar job of helming the World Changers visit last year. I am excited, as a member of the CIC, to work with him and his committee for all their events this year!

[ka19]

Thanks Brian! I expected to see you on Sunday. I will do the best I can for this town when my number is called.

I share in all of the optimism for the Borough expressed by everyone in this thread. Let's make it a great year!

[Mike Rosseel]

brian,

is newman on here? if not finding that answer out could be very interesting, maybe fiber can shed some light on this topic for newman. I would never ask anyone to put words in his mouth Brian, just curious why he left committees thats all.

[admin]

Lisa,

Smart personnel management is a perfect phrase for the point I was driving at.

Mr 19,
I do wish I was there, but work called that day. Your mention of the optimism is precisely why this meeting is such a good one every year. It shows off the best of our town.


Mike,

Your question is a good one, I just hesitate to opine, or post, because I am not completely sure of the answer and there could be personal issues that some of us are not aware of. That is often the case with resignations in general.

That brings me to a point I really need to make. Unless a public figure discusses their own personal issues, we do not discuss those things on this site. Commentary on public policy or actions is one thing, peoples personal lives have no business here. People who want that can save it for lesser web sites.

[Mike Rosseel]

"That brings me to a point I really need to make. Unless a public figure discusses their own personal issues, we do not discuss those things on this site. Commentary on public policy or actions is one thing, peoples personal lives have no business here. People who want that can save it for lesser web sites"

brian does that have to do with asking Newman why he walked away? I agree with your point, thats why i disagreed with your post from Predictions for 2010, reply #4 about Sharon Shutzer, i dont hink she made any announcements about her "personal issues" as you posted and that didnt get removed!

[admin]

Jan 5, 2010 11:00:11 GMT -5 Mike Rosseel said:

"That brings me to a point I really need to make. Unless a public figure discusses their own personal issues, we do not discuss those things on this site. Commentary on public policy or actions is one thing, peoples personal lives have no business here. People who want that can save it for lesser web sites"

brian does that have to do with asking Newman why he walked away? I agree with your point, thats why i disagreed with your post from Predictions for 2010, reply #4 about Sharon Shutzer, i dont hink she made any announcements about her "personal issues" as you posted and that didnt get removed!

Mike, I am not dismissing your question. Newman reads this site and maybe he will answer. I do know he is hesitant about posting here.

Again, I am just using caution here. For the record, I have indeed deleted posts that were in reference to people's personal lives. That includes the council. I have seen the character assassination and lies on other sites and will not tolerate it here. I am NOT accusing you of anything, Mike, just making a point in general. I hope that you will agree with me, Mike, that it is not wise to fuel rumors about peoples personal lives. For all I know, there could be nothing to why Newman left the rental committee.

And no, Shutzer did not make what could be called a glaring announcement. She did make a passing reference. I was there , I heard it, I did not post anything more than what she said in a public meeting. I would not have posted it otherwise, public meetings are fair game.

[admin]

PS Mike,

I will empower you to make a choice here. Do you believe my post from the predictions thread was out of line? If so, say the word and I will delete it. Your choice. Should it stay or should it go?

[Mike Rosseel]

Brian,

I dont think your out of line in anyway, just trying to understand the guidelines thats all. I wasnt putting you down, just curious. I hope Newman does answer, as an elected offical I think he owes that much. If he walked away for personal reasons, thats fine, no need for details just make us aware of why this happened. I hope he does respond!

[admin]

Jan 5, 2010 12:03:04 GMT -5 Mike Rosseel said:

Brian,

I dont think your out of line in anyway, just trying to understand the guidelines thats all. I wasnt putting you down, just curious. I hope Newman does answer, as an elected offical I think he owes that much. If he walked away for personal reasons, thats fine, no need for details just make us aware of why this happened. I hope he does respond!

I don't take anything you said as a put down, you do ask fair questions, which is good. In the spirit of Newman posting, that is where I am going here. I want all people comfortable. I have requests out to a couple of council members to share their thoughts with us from the reorg. I hope that they answer and we will again see that spirit of optimism that Ka19 mentioned.

[admin]

BTW, Mike, did any of the council mention bringing back Olde Freehold Day?

[Mike Rosseel]

Yes Brian it was announced and a date has been scheduled, I can get tha info for you if you would like.

[admin]

Jan 5, 2010 17:30:43 GMT -5 Mike Rosseel said:

Yes Brian it was announced and a date has been scheduled, I can get tha info for you if you would like.

Mike,

That is really good news. Definitely get us the info when you get it. The borough needs its own community affair and this is it. Of course with my luck I will be stuck working that day.

[admin]

newstranscript.gmnews.com/news/2010-01-06/Front_Page/Sims_to_lead_Freehold_Boro_council.html

Sims to lead Freehold Boro council

Newman joins governing body to give Republicans a voice in borough
BY CLARE MARIE CELANO Staff Writer
Anew Republican councilman, a tough economic climate to face and a willingness to work together to keep Freehold Borough the wonderful small town officials say it is are themes that dominated the borough’s annual reorganization meeting held Jan. 3 at Borough Hall.
The meeting began with the swearing in of Democrat Sharon Shutzer and Republican John Newman to their three-year terms. They were sworn in to office by New Jersey Lt. Gov.-elect Kimberly M. Guadagno.

Shutzer has served on the six-person council for two decades. Newman is beginning his first term on the governing body. He is the only Republican on the council.

Councilman Jaye Sims was elected to the position of council president. Sims said he was honored to accept the position and would fulfill his responsibilities as president.

In his annual address to residents, Democratic Mayor Michael Wilson congratulated the two council members and welcomed Newman to the governing body.




“I extend my hand across the proverbial aisle to you, John, so that we may work harmoniously together for the common goal, which is to continue to make Freehold Borough one of the finest middle class towns in New Jersey,” the mayor said.

Wilson said the problems and challenges officials face may sometimes seem insurmountable.

“However, our sincere cooperation, hard work and resolve will prevail. My lifelong commitment to Freehold Borough transcends political party lines.” Wilson said as he wished Newman good luck.

Newman thanked the governing body for the warm welcome, especially former Councilman Marc Le Vine, who he said was a great help to him in the transition period.

Le Vine lost his council seat to Newman in the November election.

The new councilman mentioned several issues he would like to see come to fruition, including a more open and accessible government. He said his desire for a more open and accessible government did not reflect any shortcoming on the part of the borough’s current government.

Newman said he would like to see more information provided online, such as agendas for meetings and ordinances, to help people to become more involved and to keep residents informed. He has suggested forming a citizens committee to help advise officials on the town’s budget and he indicated that he would like to pursue additional shared services.

In his comments, Wilson referred to the current economic climate and said he has never witnessed such bleak economic conditions for such a prolonged period of time.

The mayor said that because of the difficult financial times, the borough may be forced to change the manner in which it provides services to residents. He said Freehold Borough is currently undergoing a comprehensive review of many services to determine if there is a more cost-effective way to provide them without sacrificing the quality of life for residents.

Wilson also thanked Le Vine for his “insight, tireless work ethic and commitment to detail.”

[admin]

Councilman Shnurr was gracious enough to sent some bullet points from his comments at the reorganization meeting. I post them unedited and thank him for taking the time to send us his thoughts:


1. I congratulated newly selected Freehold Borough Council President Jaye Sims who has the respect and admiration of the entire council.

2. I congratulated Councilman Newman and Councilwoman Shutzer – and their families on their election victories.

3. I talked about public service in Freehold. How it is a great way to help others; to contribute your knowledge, experience and skill sets for the betterment of your community. How it is a great way to carry out your vision of Freehold, and affords you the opportunity to meet new people from the many groups and organizations in the Boro.

4. I talked about when I was first appointed to the Boro Council in 2007 and then subsequently elected to my first full term in 2008, along with Councilman DiBenedetto. At that time, I mentioned the need to listen to each other a little better without the baggage that is associated with party affiliation or group identification.

I called upon good people of good will to rise above these differences and to “cherry pick” the good ideas – regardless of where they came from. I wanted to let everyone know that I meant it then and I mean it now.

5. I made a philosophical reference to a couple of issues to illustrate how silly the party structure is in small towns like ours. When all is said and done, there is no Republican way to accomplish snow removal and no Democratic way to do leaf and brush cleanup. There are just ideas, good ideas, and better ideas – and the people who think of these ideas and then turn those ideas into a plan of action.

6. Then I thanked the people who put plans into action…I thanked the people who serve on the various boards, committees and service groups. Many who were represented at the meeting. They know, what I know, that serving your community is not only the best gift you can give to Freehold Borough, but the best gift you can give to yourself. We all know the good feeling you get inside when you help others and know that you are making a difference. Then I thanked them for making that difference in our community

7. All of us on the Council pledged to devote our time and energy to keeping Freehold a great hometown. Whether the issue is Crime Prevention & Policing, Downtown Development, Fiscal Responsibility, Providing Infrastructure Improvements, Job Creation & Economic Development, or Improving the Quality of Life for Residents.

[richardkelsey]

Jan 6, 2010 5:50:17 GMT -5 admin said:

Councilman Shnurr was gracious enough to sent some bullet points from his comments at the reorganization meeting. I post them unedited and thank him for taking the time to send us his thoughts:


1. I congratulated newly selected Freehold Borough Council President Jaye Sims who has the respect and admiration of the entire council.

2. I congratulated Councilman Newman and Councilwoman Shutzer – and their families on their election victories.

3. I talked about public service in Freehold. How it is a great way to help others; to contribute your knowledge, experience and skill sets for the betterment of your community. How it is a great way to carry out your vision of Freehold, and affords you the opportunity to meet new people from the many groups and organizations in the Boro.

4. I talked about when I was first appointed to the Boro Council in 2007 and then subsequently elected to my first full term in 2008, along with Councilman DiBenedetto. At that time, I mentioned the need to listen to each other a little better without the baggage that is associated with party affiliation or group identification.

I called upon good people of good will to rise above these differences and to “cherry pick” the good ideas – regardless of where they came from. I wanted to let everyone know that I meant it then and I mean it now.

5. I made a philosophical reference to a couple of issues to illustrate how silly the party structure is in small towns like ours. When all is said and done, there is no Republican way to accomplish snow removal and no Democratic way to do leaf and brush cleanup. There are just ideas, good ideas, and better ideas – and the people who think of these ideas and then turn those ideas into a plan of action.

6. Then I thanked the people who put plans into action…I thanked the people who serve on the various boards, committees and service groups. Many who were represented at the meeting. They know, what I know, that serving your community is not only the best gift you can give to Freehold Borough, but the best gift you can give to yourself. We all know the good feeling you get inside when you help others and know that you are making a difference. Then I thanked them for making that difference in our community

7. All of us on the Council pledged to devote our time and energy to keeping Freehold a great hometown. Whether the issue is Crime Prevention & Policing, Downtown Development, Fiscal Responsibility, Providing Infrastructure Improvements, Job Creation & Economic Development, or Improving the Quality of Life for Residents.

I like this very much.

[admin]

I greatly appreciate that councilmen Shnurr and Sims shared some thoughts with us. They provided more than what we often see in the papers and I hope all readers can appreciate that.

Now I eagerly await and see if Republican Councilman Newman will also send us some thoughts for all to see on this "GOP Site," after all, he campaigned for open and accessible government. ;D

As always, all of the governing body is welcome to this site.

[Mike Rosseel]

Brian,

Where is what Jay sent to this site? Also, i hope Newman does send us his thoughts, then maybe he can answer why he walked away from previous appointments as well? that would be great to clear up!

[admin]

Jan 6, 2010 17:25:07 GMT -5 Mike Rosseel said:

Brian,

Where is what Jay sent to this site? Also, i hope Newman does send us his thoughts, then maybe he can answer why he walked away from previous appointments as well? that would be great to clear up!

See reply number 9 for what Jaye said in the meeting. His response to me was not something that was easy to cut and paste. It was more of a personal discussion between us. I did write out all the points he mentioned.

[Mike Rosseel]

thanks Brian