Former mayor sounds off on proposed budget

Recently I received our estimated 2008 tax bill. I read the enclosed letter with interest as Mayor Acropolis defended his 9.6- cent rate increase by blaming others.

Wasn't it just a year ago that I proposed a 12-cent increase and was told by Anthony Matthews that it was absurd? A year later, Councilman Matthews has no comment regarding the proposed budget. However he does have a lot to say regarding Kathy Russell's education. Give us a break.

Let's get back to this year's budget and Mayor Acropolis' targeted "attrition policy."

But first, let's look at my year in office. We felt it necessary to retain a surplus whereas Mayor Acropolis has used up all but $29,000. We hope that no emergency arises to put Brick in a desperate situation.

Regarding any resignations or retirements, I did not hire any new personnel. I also did not require a township vehicle and drove my own vehicle, a 2000 Subaru station wagon with a 140,000 mileage. Yet again Mayor Acropolis wants to take credit for policy that already existed during my time in office.

Years ago I read a great man said, "trust the people," and I did by proposing a 12-cent tax increase and again by asking for a referendum on the Ice Palace.

Maybe if Mayor Acropolis and his gang had more faith in "trusting the people" and gave us the truth regarding Traders Cove, the Ice Palace and Foodtown site, not just their version of the truth, we could move Brick Township forward. So Steve please, "trust the people."
Dan Kelly
Brick

Editor's note: Daniel J. Kelly served as mayor from January 2007 to November 2007, when he was defeated by Acropolis in the race for former Mayor Joseph C. Scarpelli's unexpired term.