CNBNews

UPDATED WITH NEW INFORMATION/CORRECTIONS MADE

William E. Cleary Sr. | CNBNews

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (November 2, 2024)(CNBNews)--Why is it taking an astonishing five weeks to release the minutes from the Gloucester City Council meeting held on September 23? We believe there is no reasonable explanation for such a prolonged delay. A tape recording is made of the meeting; afterward, a clerk transcribes what was said. This situation raises concerns about the local government's transparency and hints at an attempt to conceal their activities from the public. During this meeting, the council passed 14 resolutions yet provided little to no explanation for these decisions, leaving taxpayers in the dark about how their money is being spent.

One significant resolution on the table involves approving a contract with a drone company. While the language suggests that these drones will serve as essential equipment for the fire department, the details surrounding their specific use remain unclear and open to interpretation. This ambiguity raises an important question: Why not clearly outline the costs associated with these drones and comprehensively explain how they will enhance safety or efficiency in our community? At a time of high inflation, should drones or drones be something we should spend money on?

Another point noted in the minutes of the recent meeting announces that the City of Gloucester City is set to receive a grant for port security. Holt Logistics is the only local business that ships cargo in Gloucester City. How much is this grant, and what practical applications will it have? Given that it is designated as a port security grant, could it mean the funds will be allocated to hire security personnel or develop infrastructure such as fencing for a port? If that is indeed the case, where exactly is this port located? While this question might seem trivial, it is a reasonable inquiry considering the lack of information from the mayor and others in leadership positions.

It is essential to recognize that local governments typically do not have independent revenue sources; any funds they utilize ultimately come from the taxpayers. Even grant money still involves public dollars being spent. As engaged citizens, we have a right to transparent communication regarding these financial decisions and their real-world implications for our community. 

Buried within the meeting minutes are notices about the mayor and council's approval of the second reading of two bond ordinances totaling over $6 million. This significant financial commitment will leave residents tied to debt for decades. Also hidden in the details is the rationale behind the mayor and council's decision to hire more employees for the Gloucester City Police Department. The city spends over $2 million monthly on essential operations—including salaries, insurance, medical benefits, utilities, and supplies. The reason for floating so many bonds is that they have no surplus.  

At times, the present-day city leaders seem consumed by an unyielding agenda of raising taxes and increasing spending, demonstrating a troubling lack of fiscal restraint. Consequently, residents face the burden of an annual property tax hike that often exceeds $1,000, adding significant strain to their budgets. These officials appear to turn a deaf ear to the concerns of citizens who are struggling to make ends meet, showing little accountability for how they allocate their constituents' hard-earned tax dollars.

As we traverse an increasingly tumultuous economic landscape characterized by an alarming rise in inflation, it becomes evident that a significant portion of this upheaval can be traced back to the decisions made by the Democratic political elite in Washington, D.C. This ideological disconnect is further deepened by our local leaders, who appear to exhibit a troubling indifference towards the survival and well-being of the very community they are meant to serve. Their actions often suggest a lack of understanding or genuine concern for the everyday challenges of families and individuals striving to make ends meet in these difficult times.

We remain uninformed about the plans for the vacant PNC Bank building at 500 Monmouth Street, which has stood empty since September 2023. One cannot help but question the urgency behind the decision to purchase this property in April 2024. With the city having depleted its surplus fund account, it became necessary to simply float another bond, amounting to $550,000, to acquire it.

In Gloucester City, residents will have a diverse array of candidates from both the Democratic and Republican parties to consider on Election Day, November 5. You can vote for incumbents who have been recklessly squandering your tax dollars and operating behind a veil of secrecy for the past decade. You stand at a crossroads: either allow the enigmatic Mayor Baile and his "Spend and Tax" council to perpetuate this cycle of tax increases while concealing their actions from public scrutiny, or take a bold step toward change in your local government.

The choice is clear: if you are content with the continuous rise in property taxes and the status quo, maintain the current leadership. However, if you believe it's time to offer new candidates a chance to invigorate our community, consider voting for all four challengers, as they will need the majority to effect meaningful change.

When it comes to the chaos unfolding in Washington, D.C., the choices are just as stark. Under the Biden administration, millions of undocumented immigrants have entered our country, straining public services and resources in local towns and cities. Some of these individuals are criminals, terrorists, and mentally ill. They have access to free medical care, housing, food, transportation, and education for their children, all while inflation continues to reach unprecedented heights. If this arrangement aligns with your views, then consider voting for Kamala Harris. If not, think about casting your vote for Donald Trump. The power to choose is in your hands.

Please remember to make your voice heard and vote on Tuesday, November 5.

 
PLEASE REMEMBER TO VOTE TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5

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