December 16, 2002

MALONE SAYS STATE SPENDING FREEZE SHOULD BEGIN WITH DISCRETIONARY SPENDING

Assembly Republican Budget Officer Joseph R. Malone today expressed disappointment with the decision by Democrats on the Legislative Joint Budget Oversight Committee (JBOC) to move forward with discretionary funding approvals following warnings from the McGreevey Administration that a state spending freeze may be on the horizon.

"In the wake of Treasurer McCormac’s warning of a possible state spending freeze, I believe it is fiscally irresponsible to approve any transfers for discretionary funding purposes," said Malone, R-Burlington, Ocean, Monmouth, Mercer, following a JBOC meeting. "The easiest place to implement a freeze is on discretionary, or pork spending as some like to call it.

"Treasurer McCormac placed everyone on notice that a state spending freeze is looming on the horizon, which is why I could not support these balance transfers for discretionary funding," Malone added. "If we are going to enact a spending freeze, we should start right here." State Treasurer John McCormac issued a press release Friday announcing that revenue projections for November were off the mark. The Treasurer also announced that he is preparing a list of spending freezes that could be implemented to keep the Governor’s 2003 budget in balance.

Malone said he also opposed the transfers because no explanation was given for the spending.

"The budget never provided an explanation as to how these discretionary funds would be spent and for what reason," Malone said. "If we are indeed facing a dire fiscal situation, how can we blindly approve requests for discretionary funding? It’s just fiscally irresponsible."

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December 16, 2002

Assemblyman Thomas H. Kean, Jr. today called on Assembly Speaker Albio Sires to post ‘pay to play’ reform legislation at the very next legislative session.

Kean made the written request to Sires following the Assembly’s decision Thursday to relieve the Assembly State Government Committee of A-427/S-978 and place it on second reading. The measure can now be posted for vote by Sires.

Kean asked for the bill to be relieved from the Assembly State Government Committee after it failed to be considered during the past 12 months. An identical version of the bill was approved 34-1 by the Senate in June.

"The time has come for ‘pay to play’ to become law in New Jersey," said Kean, R-Union, Morris, Somerset, Essex. "The last hurdle now is getting the bill placed on the Assembly board list for a vote and sending it to the Governor. With last week’s bipartisan decision to relieve the bill from committee, the bill is one step closer to becoming law. I hope Speaker Sires recognizes the magnitude of last Thursday’s Assembly action and posts this bill on Janaury 13.

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December 12, 2002

GREGG SAYS DMV SECURITY ENHANCEMENTS SHOULD BE FUNDED FROM EXISTING FEE REVENUE

Assembly Republican Appropriations Officer Guy Gregg issued the following statement in response to the General Assembly’s approval today of legislation increasing DMV fees:

"We all recognize a clear need exists to reform the operations of the Division of Motor Vehicles so the division is better able to counter fraud. The safety of our citizens is our top priority and it has been demonstrated that serious security flaws do exist at our DMV agencies. I oppose this legislation not because I do not recognize or support the need for security enhancements, but because I do not believe that the agency needs an additional $60 million to implement these changes. The DMV already collects more than $900 million in fees each year. If the agency was properly restructured, and managed more efficiently, I am certain that a large portion of the money needed for these improvements could be collected from existing fee revenue. This is another example of the state looking to spend more taxpayer money, without first seeking more efficient ways to conduct its operations. This administration has already imposed a variety of tax and fee increases our residents to cover $2 billion in additional spending. I think it is fair to say the citizens of this state are paying their fair share."

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December 12, 2002

PENNACCHIO MEASURE WOULD ENSURE STATE HELICOPTERS USED ONLY FOR EMERGENCIES OR STATE BUSINESS

In an effort to prevent taxpayer dollars from being misused by the Governor’s office, Assemblyman Joseph Pennacchio today introduced legislation that would limit the Governor or any member of the Governor’s staff from using the state helicopter as a mode of transportation to a personal or political event.

Pennacchio said the measure is designed to ensure the state-owned helicopters are used only for emergency situations or official state business.

"Governor McGreevey either willingly or unwillingly abused his right to use the state-owned helicopters," said Pennacchio, R-Morris, Passaic. "He used the helicopters, which are incredibly expensive to fuel, for personal and political jaunts across the state. Then he had the nerve to expect taxpayer dollars to foot the $18,000 bill.

"This legislation would set the record straight on when, where and why the state helicopters are to be used, and would require that documents be kept of all trips," Pennacchio added.

In 1994, former Governor Whitman ordered the executive helicopter transferred to the New Jersey Emergency Medical Services Helicopter Response Program, a program that was established to provide rapid emergency transport and care for trauma patients in the state. However, Governors have always had access to these helicopters in order to efficiently conduct state business.

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December 12, 2002

CORODEMUS SLAMS DEMOCRAT DMV FEE INCREASE

Assemblyman Steve Corodemus, R-Monmouth, today released the following statement regarding A-3058, the Democrat initiative that would raise Division of Motor Vehicle (DMV) fees for all New Jersey drivers.

"While I wholeheartedly support making security and technological upgrades, I cannot condone making these improvements at the taxpayers’ expense. This bill is nothing more than a tax increase for New Jersey motorists that will help pad the Governor’s budget. The Democrats have already cut school aid, raised taxes on small businesses throughout the state and cut the NJ SAVER program – now they are going after the wallets of every driver in the state.

"The DMV brings more than $900 million to the state each year, so there is absolutely no reason to demand higher costs from the public to cover the costs of the Governor’s latest project. Governor McGreevey and the Democrats are asking the public to foot a bill the state can easily pay if the Governor would allocate funds in next year’s budget rather than ask motorists to pick up the tab.

December 11, 2002

KEAN ASKS FOR BIPARTISAN SUPPORT IN BRINGING MAJOR CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM BILL FOR AN ASSEMBLY VOTE

After nearly of a year of legislative inactivity on a major campaign finance reform bill, Assemblyman Thomas Kean, Jr. today said he will seek to have the legislation relieved from the Assembly State Government so the full house can vote on the measure and send it to the Governor.

Kean was joined at a Trenton press conference by representatives from New Jersey Common Cause, the League of Women Voters and AARP to help push for passage of the reform bill.

The reform legislation, which has been called the "pay to play" bill, has been bottled up in the Assembly State Government since January and has not even been scheduled for a discussion.

Kean said he has submitted three written requests to the chairman asking the bill to be considered by the committee, but received no response.

"It became abundantly clear that the ‘pay to play’ bill was not a high priority on the Assembly agenda," said Kean. "After the Senate approved the bill in June, I was encouraged that the bill would be passed by the Assembly in the fall. Needless to say I am extremely disappointed that the bill has been buried in the State Government Committee.

"This is not a partisan issue by any stretch of the imagination," Kean added. "I think it would send a more powerful message to the citizens of New Jersey if we approve this legislation on a bipartisan basis. I am hoping some of my Democrat colleagues will support the motion to bring the bill to the Assembly floor for a vote."

Kean said he was uncertain why the bill has not received more support from the Democrat leadership in the Assembly. He pointed out that the Senate vote was 34-1 and gubernatorial candidate Jim McGreevey supported the bill during the campaign.

"With the bill passing the Senate overwhelmingly and having the support of the Governor, I would think its chances of becoming law were pretty good," Kean said. "I don’t really know what the stumbling block is right now."

The key provisions of the bill include:

Prohibiting business entities who contract with the state for goods and services in excess of $17,500 from making contributions – whether it be money or other things of value – to any candidate or public official having ultimate responsibility for the award of the contract.

Reducing to $250 the amount that professionals doing business with the state can give to a state candidate and $500 to a party committee. The current levels are $2,200 for state legislative candidates, $2,600 for gubernatorial candidates and $37,000 to party committees and political action committees.

Requiring an annual disclosure statement of contributions for all state contractors receiving $50,000 or more of state business in one year.

Kean said the bill would help restore some of the public’s waning faith in government and its elected officials.

"Some recent, highly publicized public corruption stories have really given public service a black eye here in New Jersey," Kean said. "Now is the time for this important reform measure to move forward. We must send a positive message to the citizens of New Jersey that state government is trying to win back their trust by preventing even the appearance of a conflict."

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December 9, 2002

GEIST BILL TO PUNISH MOTORISTS WHO KILL WHEN ‘DRIVING WHILE FATIGUED’ ADVANCES

Motorists who cause another person’s death by driving while knowingly fatigued could be charged with vehicular homicide, under legislation sponsored by Assemblyman George F. Geist that was approved today by Assembly Judiciary Committee.

The measure, A-1347, endorsed by the New Jersey Chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Drivers, would define "fatigued" as driving following a 24-hour period without sleep.

"This bill would amend New Jersey’s driving laws to make it clear that driving a vehicle while knowingly tired constitutes recklessness," said Geist, R-Gloucester, Camden. "Just as driving while intoxicated impairs a person’s motor skills, so does driving while exhausted. We know both have the ability to kill innocent people."

Geist’s bill was prompted by 1997 Camden County case in which a jury acquitted Chesilhurst resident Michael Coleman of vehicular homicide following a crash that killed 20-year-old Gloucester County College student Margaret "Maggie" McDonnell. Coleman admitted staying awake more than 30 hours immediately before sliding behind the wheel of his van. He fell asleep while driving and crashed head-on into the woman’s car. He also admitted smoking crack cocaine hours before the accident. To win a conviction under the current vehicular homicide statute -- a second-degree crime punishable by a maximum 10 years imprisonment and/or a $150,000 fine -- the state must prove the accused driver was reckless. Current law states a person acts recklessly when he "consciously disregards a substantial and unjustifiable risk." Current law does not enable jury consideration of someone having been without sleep for a period in excess of 24 consecutive hours.

"The jury presumably concluded that driving while fatigued did not constitute recklessness in the Coleman case," Geist said. "My legislation would close the loophole and clarify that knowingly fatigued driving is reckless behavior."

Geist, who championed the law increasing penalties for hit-and-run drivers, said a study conducted by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and the National Transportation Safety Board estimates at least 200,000 traffic accidents each year are due to driver fatigue.

According to the American Automobile Association, 17 hours without sleep has the same effect on human performance as having a blood alcohol level of .05, and 24 hours without sleep impairs performance as much as a .10 blood alcohol level.

The American Automobile Association Foundation for Traffic Safety (AAAFTS) asserts that being awake for more than 20 hours straight or getting less than six hours of sleep places drivers at risk for getting into "drowsy driving crashes." Such sleep-deprived drivers are five times more likely to cause accidents than people who have slept seven to eight hours a night, the AAAFTS states.

The measure now heads to the full Assembly for consideration.

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December 9, 2002

GEIST MEASURE INCREASING PENALTIES FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY ADVANCES IN COMMITTEE

Legislation sponsored by Assemblyman George F. Geist that would elevate animal cruelty offenses from fourth degree crimes to third degree crimes was approved unanimously by the Assembly Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee Monday.

The measure, which was amended in committee to include increased penalties for repeat offenders, also significantly increases the civil fines collected by the New Jersey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

"This measure is incredibly important because it would save lives – both animal and human," said Geist, R-Camden, Gloucester. "Intentionally harming an animal for pleasure is often a sign of deeper aggressions that could one day be taken out on a human victim, and that is a concern I am not willing to brush aside."

Geist added that cruelty can include many things, such as tormenting or unnecessarily beating an animal, carrying an animal in a cage in an inhumane manner, keeping a wild animal as an exhibit in a public place or paying for or encouraging such behavior.

"Animal cruelty is much more than hitting or beating your pet," said Geist. "Cruelty and inhumane behavior can be present at many levels, all of which need to be recognized by the law. This measure would target those individuals who mistreat their pets or other animals, and charge them with much-needed stiffer penalties.

"We’ve got to make New Jersey a safer place for everyone, and my measure, though seemingly aimed at just protecting animals, would do much more than that. It would protect would-be abusers from themselves and others," Geist said.

The bill was released from committee 5-0 and now heads to the full General Assembly for consideration.

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December 9, 2002

AZZOLINA: "WE NEED THE MOM, AND WE 
NEED IT NOW!"

Assemblyman Joseph Azzolina voiced his support for the Monmouth-Ocean-Middlesex (MOM) rail line today, saying the area’s congestion will only get worse if existing rail lines are not put to use.

Speaking at a scoping meeting arranged to solicit testimony and input on the MOM rail line held today at the Freehold Gardens Hotel in Freehold, Azzolina noted that the region continues to attract families.

"I didn’t need the census figures in 2000 to tell me what I already knew - that Monmouth and Ocean counties are continuing to grow at a steady rate," remarked Azzolina, R-Middlesex, Monmouth. "They will continue to grow, too, because they are at the top of the list of most desirable places to live in the nation."

This is reason enough, Azzolina says, to ease traffic congestion along busy roads, give residents an alternative to auto travel, and open up rail service once again in the region.

"I support the MOM because reintroduction of passenger rail service on long-abandoned lines is good public policy," Azzolina added. "Trains are reliable – they don’t get stuck in traffic jams on Sunday nights when the Parkway is a parking lot from Ocean County to Union County."

Of the three rail alignments being studied, Azzolina favors the Lakehurst to Monmouth Junction line. This alignment would join with the Northeast Corridor and provide access to both north and southbound Amtrak and NJ Transit destinations such as Trenton, New York, Philadelphia and Washington D.C.

"This is the only alignment that makes sense, because it follows where the greatest growth has taken place in the Central New Jersey region.

"Improved bus service only goes so far, since buses are still constrained to the roadways," Azzolina continued. "MOM will go a long way in helping get cars off the road, pollution out of the air and tempers in check on our congested traffic arteries."

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December 5, 2002

DiGAETANO TO McGREEVEY: "IF YOU WANT TO CONTROL COSTS FOLLOW PSE&G’S LEAD AND STOP THE COPTER RIDES"

Assembly Republican Leader Paul DiGaetano today challenged Governor Jim McGreevey to back up his "cost savings speech" to the business community by following Public Service Enterprise Group’s lead to stop using costly helicopter flights to transport its executives to business meetings.

The gas and electric utility announced yesterday it was selling its four-passenger, two-pilot Eurocopter helicopter to Analar Corporation for nearly half a million dollars. Last month, the utility company eliminated about 150 jobs and announced plans to consolidate some of its offices and subsidiaries and close others.

"The Governor told business leaders yesterday that Trenton was going to control costs," said DiGaetano, R-Essex, Bergen, Passaic. "Well this is the perfect opportunity for the Governor to back up his rhetoric with action. He should follow Public Service’s lead and stop racking up the frequent flier miles on the state helicopters.

"If private business believes the use of the helicopter is a luxury than can be eliminated during tough fiscal times, then perhaps the McGreevey Administration should adopt the same policy," DiGaetano added. "I have no problem with the Governor using state helicopters for emergencies and official state business when absolutely necessary, but it seems the use of the helicopters has become almost standard practice with this Governor.

"The Governor can show the business community that he is serious about controlling costs by cutting down on some of the state luxuries," DiGaetano continued. "If the Governor believes municipalities, counties, school districts and private businesses need to do some belt tightening, then the same standard should apply to his Administration."

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December 5, 2002

DEMOCRATS SHOULD BE CAREFUL WHEN DISCUSSING HYPOCRISY, PARSONS IN SAME SENTENCE

Given some recent decisions by the McGreevey administration, perhaps McGreevey’s spokespersons should be more careful when leveling baseless charges of hypocrisy at Republicans.

According to a story in today’s Record of Hackensack, a McGreevey spokesman dismissed Republican requests that questionable Democrat fundraising practices be investigated, as "hypocrisy."

While we would expect the Democrats to defend their shady fundraising practices, they should be a little more careful in the examples they cite when doing so.

The McGreevey spokesman is quoted as saying, "The Republicans are raising hypocrisy to an art form. They have honorary degrees from the Enron school of economics for the huge debt, large deficit and scandals such as E-ZPass and Parsons."

Last time we checked, the administration is warning that its own budget this year may result in a $4 billion deficit, it may have to incur more debt to balance it, E-ZPass is still operating and now strongly endorsed by the Governor, and Parsons was granted a two-year contract extension by McGreevey.

So perhaps it is fair to ask just who, exactly, is being hypocritical?

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December 4, 2002

GREGG REQUESTS SCI INVESTIGATION INTO DEMOCRATS’ INTIMIDATION AND STRONG-ARM FUND RAISING TACTICS

Assemblyman Guy R. Gregg today sent a letter to the State Commission of Investigation requesting a thorough review of reported allegations that Governor Jim McGreevey and the Democratic Party are using intimidation and strong-arm tactics to coerce campaign donors to contribute only to Democrat candidates.

Gregg said the allegations, which were levied by both Republican and Democrat lobbyists in a November 24^th story in The Record , warrant a thorough probe by the SCI.

"The fact that both Republicans and Democrats on State Street are upset about the tactics being used by the McGreevey Administration and the Democrat State Committee certainly adds legitimacy to the complaints," said Gregg, R-Sussex, Hunterdon, Morris. "It appears that the McGreevey Administration is encouraging and participating in a high-pressure fund-raising scheme. If these allegations are indeed true, it constitutes a gross abuse of political power."

Gregg said the recent string of indictments handed down against public officials, and the public’s waning faith in its government and political leaders, is reason enough for the investigation.

"The public’s faith and trust in government is probably at an all time low in New Jersey right now," Gregg said. "The story published by The Record further tarnishes the image and reputation of our state government.

"We need to reassure the public that state government is not for sale," Gregg added. "It is incumbent upon the SCI to investigate whether this Administration and the Democrat State Committee are shaking down contributors. These serious allegations should be thoroughly investigated."

Gregg said he was disappointed that Governor McGreevey, who said he would raise the ethical bar in state government, has lowered it more than any Governor in the past decade.

"The Governor has lowered the ethical bar so much it almost looks like he is conducting a limbo contest to see how many of his friends and political cronies can wiggle under it," Gregg said. "It is giving state government a black eye."

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**** A copy of Gregg’s letter to SCI Executive Director Robert Morley can be read here (PDF required).

December 4, 2002

DeCROCE CALLS ON U.S. ATTORNEY TO LOOK INTO DEMOCRAT FUNDRAISING PRACTICES

ALSO SENDS LETTER TO ELEC REGARDING KUSHNER CONTRIBUTIONS

Assembly Republican Conference Leader Alex DeCroce Wednesday sent a letter to U.S. Attorney Christopher Christie asking that he investigate news reports that the Democrat State Committee is facilitating one-on-one meetings with the Governor for lobbyists who donate $25,000 to the Democrats.

"The concern here is whether the Governor is being influenced by these private meetings, and if so, whether the administration’s policy decisions are being influenced by these campaign contributions," said DeCroce, R-Morris, Passaic. "It is certainly a concern that both Democrat and Republican lobbyists say they are feeling pressured by the administration to contribute a specific percentage of their money to the Democrat State Committee."

DeCroce also sent a letter to the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission asking that it look into allegations made in a New York Observer story, that McGreevey’s appointee to the Port Authority, Charles Kushner had written campaign contribution checks, "in the names of employees" that were "not always cleared with those employees beforehand . . ."

Today, the Record of Hackensack reported that one employee has filed a lawsuit against Kushner for contributing money from the accounts of his partners to "favored politicians."

"I am asking that ELEC commence an investigation into these serious charges immediately," DeCroce said. "In the meantime, I think it would be appropriate for Mr. Kushner to step aside from his position with the Port Authority until the ethical cloud hanging over his head is cleared."

**** A copy of both letters can be read here (PDF required).

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December 4, 2002

DIGAETANO BLASTS MCGREEVEY’S MISUSE OF STATE HELICOPTER

Assembly Republican Leader Paul DiGaetano criticized Governor McGreevey for using the state-owned helicopters for personal trips, and then trying to pass off the expense to New Jersey.

"There is no reason whatsoever that Governor McGreevey should have racked up $18,200 in bills for his private helicopter trips and then expected the state to pick up the tab," said DiGaetano, R-Bergen, Essex, Passaic. "Between these expenses and his costly jaunt to Ireland over the summer, Governor McGreevey continues to show little regard for state funds and how hard New Jersey taxpayers work for their money."

DiGaetano added that Governor McGreevey recently proposed purchasing new helicopters for the state.

"The Governor thinks the state needs new helicopters because the current ones are showing wear and tear – perhaps if he had not taken 272 trips in 10 months, the helicopters would be in better shape," DiGaetano added.

"I would hope that if and when new helicopters are purchased, they would only be used for official state business and emergencies, not personal trips," DiGaetano said. "The Governor seems to have a hard time separating his personal funds from state tax dollars. I would like to remind him they are not one in the same."

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November 27, 2002

GREGG CALLS McGREEVEY’S EXORBITANT EXPENDITURE ON IRELAND TRIP OUTRAGEOUS

GOVERNOR MUST HAVE A DIFFERENT IDEA OF ‘LIVING WITHIN OUR MEANS’

Assembly Republican Appropriations Officer Guy Gregg today expressed outrage that Governor McGreevey’s summer trip to Ireland cost taxpayers $105,000 – more than five-times what the Governor had projected his so-called ‘trade mission’ would cost.

"In an era of fiscal belt-tightening it is outrageous that the Governor would spend taxpayer money so recklessly," said Gregg, R-Sussex, Morris and Hunterdon. "The trade benefits of this mission were dubious to begin with, but now that we know how much this so-called trade mission has cost taxpayers, the trip seems even more wasteful."

The Star Ledger Wednesday reported that despite the Governor’s original estimates that his trip to Ireland would cost taxpayers only $20,000, the total bill came to $105,000, including more than $42,000 for hotel expenses, $21,000 for chauffeur services, and $16,000 for cell phone usage.

"Even if this trip does have some positive impact on our state’s economy, there is no justification for forcing the taxpayers to pick up the tab for these types of lavish expenditures," Gregg said. "I am certain that this trip could have been planned and executed at far less expense to the taxpayers."

"Governor McGreevey talks about the need to live within our means," Gregg said. "Well, I don’t know too many families who believe that living within your means includes taking vacations to Ireland, staying at the most expensive hotels, and running up $16,000 in cell phone bills."

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November 26, 2002

GREGG CALLS ON McGREEVEY TO OPPOSE PUBLIC FUNDING FOR NORCROSS’ HOCKEY ARENA

– Says Taxpayers Should Not Help Fund New Facility for South Jersey Political Boss –

Assemblyman Guy R. Gregg today called on Governor Jim McGreevey to step up to the plate and publicly oppose a plan that would channel more than $24 million in public money to help finance a new arena that would benefit South Jersey millionaire and Democrat political boss George Norcross.

Gregg said plans by the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority to hand over $24.2 million to the Camden County Improvement Authority to help finance the $65 million project. According to media reports, Norcross and others have sought public funding for the 6,400-seat arena – plus an attached conference center and ice rink.

Gregg said the deal appeared to be another political payoff to one of the Democrat’s biggest political fund-raiser.

"This ice rink is not about what is best for New Jersey. It’s about what is right for George Norcross," said Gregg, R-Sussex, Hunterdon, Morris. "I must admit one thing. The Governor said he was going to change the way business was being done in Trenton and he has certainly followed through on his promise.

"There are more questionable business deals involving his cabinet and political cronies than I have seen in such a short period of time," Gregg added. "This Governor and his Administration have no qualms about using state government to benefit their political friends and allies.

"It’s time for the Governor to speak out and stop the systematic sale of state government and halt the use of political money to benefit Democrat party loyalists," Gregg continued. "The Governor should end his silence and speak out against this sweetheart deal for George Norcross."

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November 25, 2002

DiGAETANO: COMMUNITY GROUP’S LAWSUIT HIGHLIGHTS THE ABSURDITY OF NEWARK ARENA DEAL

SAYS PORT AUTHORITY LEASE REVENUE COULD BE PUT TO BETTER USE

Assembly Republican Leader Paul DiGaetano Monday said that the lawsuit filed last week by the Newark community group SCORE demonstrates there are many people in Newark who realize that using revenue from the new Port Authority lease is an example of skewed fiscal priorities.

"Newark is a city that has many problems to confront, including aging infrastructure, failing schools, and an overdue revaluation that could dramatically impact property taxes," said DiGaetano, R-Essex, Bergen, and Passaic. "Certainly there are far more pressing problems facing the people of Newark than George Steinbrenner’s need for a new sports arena."

News reports Friday indicate that SCORE (Schools, Community, Opportunity, and Revaluation Emergencies, Inc.), has filed a lawsuit to block Newark from spending $165 million from its new airport lease with the Port Authority on a new sports arena for the Yankee-Nets organization.

"The taxpayers of New Jersey have been very generous in helping to address the needs of the residents of Newark during the past decade," DiGaetano said. "Now it appears the city is turning its back on the needs of its own residents in order to build a $355 million sports arena for a multi-billion dollar sports conglomerate. That is wrong."

DiGaetano pointed out that the state has sent more than $5.6 billion in combined municipal and school aid into the city of Newark during the past decade.

"When a group representing the citizens of Newark stands up and says that this project is being financed to the detriment of that city’s residents, I think we should all pay attention," DiGaetano said. "This deal continues to be bad for everyone involved – except Mayor James and George Steinbrenner."

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November 22, 2002

ASSELTA FIGHTS TO RESTORE TEACHER MENTORING FUNDS

Assemblyman Nicholas Asselta today urged Assembly Education Committee Chairman Joseph Doria to post legislation that would appropriate $6.4 million to the New Jersey Department of Education for the Teacher Mentoring Program on the committee agenda as soon as possible.

"First year teachers are required by the Department of Education to have a mentor to guide them in their earliest teaching experiences," said Asselta, R-Cape May, Atlantic, Cumberland, who is the sponsor of the bill. "This program promotes shared teaching skills and prepares young teachers for their challenging career. My measure, A-2825, would restore the state funding recently cut by the DOE for this program.

"New Jersey’s teacher mentoring program is essential for teacher development, and since they recently cut funding, I am concerned the DOE does not fully appreciate the need for experienced mentors," Asselta said. "Since the department kept the program in place, they must see it as a worthwhile venture. However, I cannot understand how the program can be successfully mantained without any funding."

Asselta said that by eliminating funding for mentors, the DOE forced first-year teachers to pay the for cost of a mentor on their own.

"Learning from experienced peers is crucial for young teachers to be successful," said Asselta. "It is unacceptable for the Department of Education to mandate mentors for first-year teachers, but expect those teachers to foot the bill. I urge Assemblyman Doria to post my bill on his committee agenda as soon as possible so we can ensure successful, experienced teachers for New Jersey students."

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November 22, 2002

O’TOOLE CALLS ON McGREEVEY TO TAKE FURTHER CUTS IN PROPERTY TAX RELIEF PROGRAM OFF THE TABLE

Assemblyman Kevin O’Toole called on Governor McGreevey Friday to make an unequivocal public commitment that his administration will make no further cuts to the New Jersey SAVER property tax rebate program.

"The Governor’s decision to freeze aid to our schools and municipalities this year has contributed to the single largest increase one-year increase in property taxes since 1990," O’Toole said. "And with the Governor considering another year with no increases in state aid, now is not the right time to be considering further cutbacks to our property tax relief program."

O’Toole, R-Passaic, Bergen and Essex, made his comments in response to a report in The Record of Hackensack stating that McGreevey was considering eliminating the NJSAVER property tax relief program for families earning more than $150,000 per year. The Governor already has eliminated the program for families earning more than $200,000.

"The number of families with combined incomes of more than $150,000 per year is significant, particularly in this region of the state," O’Toole said. "Such a cutback would have a devastating impact on families who are already facing steep increases in their property tax bills."

O’Toole also pointed out that this is another example of the Governor balancing his budget on the backs of suburban and rural taxpayers in order to maintain hefty amounts of funding for programs in urban areas.

"Clearly this move would hit suburban and rural residents hard," he said.

O’Toole said the administration should first look for cost savings within the state budget before targeting already overburdened taxpayers.

"Governor McGreevey increased the size of New Jersey’s state budget by $2 billion," O’Toole said. "He should take a close look at that increase in spending before he takes a step that could make property taxes unaffordable for many families."

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November 18, 2002

PLUMSTED MAYOR RONALD DANCER SWORN IN TO 30^TH DISTRICT ASSEMBLY SEAT

Prior to the start of today’s General Assembly voting session Plumsted Township Mayor Ronald S. Dancer was sworn in as an Assemblyman representing the 30^th Legislative District.

Dancer was selected by the Ocean County Republican Committee to fill the term of the late Assemblyman Melvin Cottrell who passed away last month. Dancer will serve out the remainder of Cottrell’s two-year term through January 2004.

"I am honored to represent and serve the 30^th Legislative District, and I believe I will bring valuable experience to the table as the Mayor of Plumsted Township for 13 years," said Dancer, R-Ocean, Burlington, Mercer, Monmouth. "New Jersey is facing some very serious issues this year that I look forward to tackling with my colleagues Senator Robert Singer and Assemblyman Joseph Malone."

Dancer added that property tax relief as well as school and municipal aid are among his top priorities.

The following is biographical information about Ronald S. Dancer:

*Former horseman and son of Hall of Fame Harness Horse Racing Driver Stanley Dancer.

*Since 1990 Dancer has been the Mayor of Plumsted Township.

*Since 1985 Dancer has been a member of the Ocean County Board of Social Services and is currently Chairman

*Dancer serves on the Ocean County Senior Citizens’ Advisory Council.

*Dancer will be stepping down from the New Jersey Horse Racing Commission, which he served on from 1999-2002, and the New Jersey Department of Agriculture Sire Stakes Board, which he served on from 1982-2002.

*Dancer and his wife of 34 years, Brenda, have two children, Ronald Dancer, Jr.,  a Washington Township Police Officer, and Kristy Dancer, a student at Moravian College in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

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November 13, 2002

O’TOOLE WAITING ON RESPONSE FROM EXECUTIVE ETHICS COMMISSION REGARDING REVIEW OF CIPEL MATTER

Assemblyman Kevin O’Toole said Wednesday that he is still waiting for a response from the Executive Commission on Ethical Standards to a letter he sent on October 18 asking that either that Commission or the Office of Government Integrity review Golan Cipel’s role as a liaison for the Governor’s Office.

On October 24 O’Toole received a response from Edward Neafsey, the director of the Office of Government Integrity, in which Neafsey said his office would not be reviewing the matter, but that the Commission on Ethical Standards was "the proper entity" to conduct such a review. (A copy of the Neafsey letter is attached)

"I appreciate Mr. Neafsey’s opinion that this matter is not his jurisdiction, but if the Ethics Commission is the proper body to review this matter, I am curious as to why I have not heard a response from that office," said O’Toole, R-Passaic, Bergen and Essex.

The O’Toole letter was in response to a Star Ledger report that Cipel was serving as an official liaison for the Governor’s Office, at the same time he is employed as a partner at a Trenton lobbying firm, State Street Partners.

The O’Toole letter was addressed to both Rita Strmensky, Director of the Executive Commission on Ethical Standards, and Neafsey in the Office of Government Integrity. It cites the state’s Conflict of Interest Laws (N.J.S.A 52:13D-12 et. seq.), and the Executive Order governing executive branch employees.

"These laws were designed to eliminate both actual and apparent conflicts of interests, in order to bolster the public’s faith in their government," O’Toole wrote in his letter. "Any blurring of these lines only serves to undermine the confidence that the people have in the integrity of their elected officials, and damages the credibility of our entire state government."

O’Toole said that if Strmensky does not inform him soon as to whether the commission plans to review the matter, that he intends to make a follow-up request in which he will cite Neafsey’s opinion that the commission Strmensky heads is the proper place for this referral.

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November 12, 2002

YANKEE-NETS RAKING IN MONEY FROM AS FAR AWAY AS JAPAN, BUT STILL NEEDS TAXPAYERS AND COMMUTERS TO FUND NEW ARENA

As the Port Authority contemplates whether to raise tolls in order to cover the financial shortfall created by its new $265 million airport lease/arena funding deal with the city of Newark, the Yankee-Nets organization has found a new location to plunder for more Yen – Japan.

Today’s newspapers are reporting that the Yankee-Nets conglomerate is about to cut a deal with the Tokyo Giants that will include marketing agreements, scouting partnerships, and television-rights transfers.

This news comes at the same time as reports that the Port Authority is facing a budget shortfall, which may in part be the result of the larger than expected airport lease agreement the Port reached with the city of Newark. Not coincidentally, the money from that enhanced lease is slated to be used to fund the proposed Newark Arena.

Speculation has already begun as to whether the Port Authority’s cash shortfall will require a toll hike for commuters to New York City.

So yet again, the multi-billion dollar Yankee-Nets entity finds new ways to rake in cash, while at the same time pleading with the taxpayers of Newark – and now possibly the commuters of North Jersey – to fund their new sports palace in Newark.

George Steinbrenner’s life couldn’t get much better.

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November 12, 2002

DiGAETANO SAYS COSTLY NEWARK ARENA LEASE DEAL COULD MEAN HIGHER TOLLS FOR NEW JERSEY COMMUTERS

– Cites Port Authority’s Newark Airport Lease for Agency’s Revenue Shortfall –  

Assembly Republican Leader Paul DiGaetano today warned that New Jersey commuters may be looking at future toll increases to offset financial losses caused by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s costly Newark Airport/Arena lease agreement.

“It has been my belief from the very beginning that New Jersey citizens will be paying for the construction of the Newark Arena in some way, shape or form,” said DiGaetano, R-Essex, Bergen, Passaic. “I think it is fairly safe to say that taxpayers will be footing the bill for costly transportation and infrastructure projects needed to accommodate the new sports facility in Newark. But now we see that the new lease agreement between the City and Port Authority – an agreement that was crafted specifically to finance the construction of the Newark Arena – has created a large shortfall in the agency’s budget.

“My concern is that this shortfall, which is due in large part to the lease agreement, will be foisted onto the backs of New Jersey’s commuters in the form of higher tolls,” DiGaetano said. “There is no doubt in my mind that hardworking New Jersey citizens will be paying a significant portion of the cost to build a new arena for George Steinbrenner’s sports teams. It is no longer a question of public money being used for this expensive project. It is more of how much public money will be used and where it will come from.”

The Port Authority recently agreed to a new $265 million contract with the City of Newark to extend the agency’s lease on Newark Liberty International Airport.

Newark Mayor Sharpe James pushed a more lucrative lease agreement with the agency in an attempt to provide the City with a financial windfall that would be used to fund the construction of the Newark Arena.

“The Port Authority will have to recoup its losses from the Newark lease agreement in some manner, and unfortunately it may mean New jersey commuters will pay the price,” DiGaetano continued. “With each passing day, we realize just how bad the arena deal is going to be for New Jersey residents.” 

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November 7, 2002

O’TOOLE SLAMS GOVERNOR’S DMV FEE INCREASE

In response to Governor McGreevey’s recent announcement to increase Division of Motor Vehicle fees for annual automobile registration, Assemblyman Kevin J. O’Toole, R- Bergen, Essex, Passaic, stated the following:

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November 1, 2002

DeCROCE CRITICIZES DEMOCRATS FOR BACKROOM WHEELING AND DEALING ON SMART GUN ISSUE

Assembly Republican Conference Leader Alex DeCroce today said recent revelations regarding Governor McGreevey’s secret backroom deals with both Ceasefire NJ and the National Rifle Association (NRA) on proposed "smart gun" legislation clearly underscore the Democrats’ intent to merely use the gun safety issue for political gain.

"It is clear the ‘smart gun’ issue was meant to be a political football and merely a campaign issue to use against Republicans," said DeCroce, R-Morris, Passaic. "The fact that Governor McGreevey is making promises and cutting secret deals with both opponents and supporters of the ‘smart gun’ legislation completely ruins the Democrats’ credibility on the issue.

"Democrats are now trying to cut another backroom deal to try and move the bill though the Legislature," DeCroce continued. "Republicans have not been included in the secret deals being negotiated by the Governor and the Democrat leadership so it is difficult for Republicans to have any sense of what may or may not be in the bill at this point."

DeCroce said like many other legislators, both Republican and Democrat, he was shocked to learn of McGreevey’s deal with the NRA.

"This Governor has absolutely no credibility anymore with the media, the general public and the Legislature," DeCroce added. "The Democrats have used the ‘smart gun’ issue for pure political gain and nothing more. They should be ashamed that the leader of their party deliberately played on the public’s fears about gun violence and then sold them out to further benefit his campaign for governor.

"The silence from my Democrat colleagues regarding the Governor’s behavior is deafening."

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November 1, 2002

KEAN TO KEEP ASSEMBLY OFFICE IN ASBURY PARK

In an effort to maintain the legacy and quality of constituent relations of the late Assemblyman Thomas S. Smith, Assemblyman Sean T. Kean said he will keep Smith’s district office at 601 Grand Ave., in Asbury Park.

Kean was selected by the Monmouth County Republican Committee to fill the term of the late Assemblyman Thomas Smith who passed away last month. Kean will serve out the remainder of Smith’s two-year term through January 2004.

"Tom Smith devoted his life, career and legislative achievements to his hometown, and I owe it to the people who elected him to maintain a legislative presence in here," said Kean, R-Monmouth. "Assemblyman Smith represented his constituents with intense dedication and commitment, and like him, I will not turn my back on the people of Asbury Park.

"The historic city of Asbury Park is undergoing a renaissance that involves construction, preservation and growth," said Kean. "I look forward to seeing that redevelopment firsthand by working with the people of Monmouth County to continue the process underway of putting Asbury Park back on the map as a cultural and recreational landmark."

Kean added he is a co-sponsor of a measure that would rename the state office building at 630 Bangs Avenue in Asbury Park, the "Thomas S. Smith, Sr. State Office Building." Assemblyman Steve Corodemus, R-Monmouth, and Assembly Republican Leader Paul DiGaetano, R-Bergen, Essex, Passaic, also are co-sponsors.

"I realize I have big shoes to fill, but I look forward to serving the people of Asbury Park and Monmouth County with the same intensity Assemblyman Tom Smith showed throughout his tenure in the Legislature."

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November 1, 2002

Assemblywoman Rose Heck Thursday said she was upset that Governor McGreevey would cut a deal with the National Rifle Association to stymie legislation mandating "child-proof" handguns at a time when McGreevey was publicly advocating such a law.

"The idea that Governor McGreevey would work with the gun lobby to block this legislation just to protect his future political aspirations is appalling," said Heck, R-Bergen. "It is unacceptable that the Governor would put the safety of our children on the back-burner so that he can position himself for future personal political advancement."

Heck said that the situation is shocking precisely because last year McGreevey made such a huge issue of his support for smart-gun legislation.

"In case anyone has forgotten what happened just one year ago, Governor McGreevey campaigned as a proponent of gun-control," said Heck. "To now learn McGreevey was at the same time meeting with, and partnering with, the very gun lobby he told voters he would oppose, has exposed the Governor’s game playing with New Jersey voters.

"It appears that the Governor advocated child-proof handguns last year for purely political purposes, and now is opposing child-proof handguns – for purely political purposes. In the process I believe Governor McGreevey has now become the poster child for why voters are cynical about their elected leaders."

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