As mayor, I do realize that some residents are unhappy with our tough budget problems. We face difficult choices as a consequence of our nation's economic woes and the bankruptcy of Namwest, the developer contracted to complete the RiverWinds project. The fiscal problems caused by the Namwest default were then compounded by the Citgo Oil tax appeal. This appeal resulted in the town being forced to refund $8.125 million to the company. It is outrageous that the tax courts sided with the oil company while this same company made record profits, and still does not want to pay their fair share of taxes.

I and my colleagues on the Township Committee have reached out to our residents in an effort to involve our taxpayers in the difficult task of managing the township's budgetary problem. The meetings have not always been pleasant, but they have been helpful as we face the problems head on and make the decisions necessary to get our budget back on track after it was derailed by Namwest and the economic crisis. We have begun making the tough choices: laying off employees, freezing salaries, and reducing the number of employees through a hiring freeze.

Unfortunately, my Republican opponent has put petty politics ahead of the public's interest, making his trademark wild charges. He has even suggested the township "sell" RiverWinds Community Center! The township's budgetary problems are serious, yet manageable, and we have begun making the tough, smart decisions that will set us on the right course. We are listening, so let us hear from you regarding the issues important to West Deptford's future.