Letter: Endorsing McGrath For Second Term

To the Editor:

Four years ago, we endorsed Christine McGrath for a seat on the Verona Council. At that time, Christine was a newcomer to local politics, but she had a history of community involvement and a solid understanding of how things work. We were greatly impressed with her obvious leadership skills, her clear thinking on the issues, and her outstanding communication abilities – all of which Christine vowed to put to use as a member of the Verona Council. Four years later, she has done that and much, much more.

We are proud and pleased to endorse Christine for another term on the Council. Christine understands the important issues that will confront our Township in the next few years, requiring critical decision-making by the next Council. She is already laying the groundwork for improving the Bloomfield Avenue business district by recommending changes that will make the Avenue more attractive to businesses without interfering with nearby residences. When it comes to state—mandated affordable housing requirements, Christine believes we can make the mandate work for us, not against us. She knows that careful consideration of our compliance needs is vital so that our school system is not overburdened, and that we maintain Verona’s “small town” atmosphere. Christine proposes the inclusion of housing for our own older residents, who must down-size but want to remain in the town they love.

These are just some of the issues facing Verona for which we need strong, confident, unfailing leadership. Christine has been at the forefront of combatting the flooding along the Peckman River and elsewhere in town, by working with our federal representatives for assistance and funding. These improvements have already begun. In response to residents’ concerns, she has worked to expand the Township’s recreational facilities and make needed improvements at the pool. And may we say that no one is better than Christine at communicating with Verona residents: she provides reports of Council meetings to the public, consistently invites public participation on every issue, and has a reputation for always being available and responsive.

We heartily endorse Christine McGrath, for the Verona Council, and we hope to see her as our next Mayor. Christine is a proven leader and an exceptional asset to our Township. On May 9, please vote for Christine McGrath, Line 2A on the ballot.

Maria Force (Former Verona Mayor)
Catherine Tamasik (Former Verona Councilwoman)
Verona