Bound Brook Councilman's Comments

2009 Ammended Budget to be introduced

2009-09-16T14:55:00.002-04:00

The Borough Council will introduce an amended 2009 budget tonight (Wednesday 9/16/09) at 7:30 at Borough Hall. The meeting is open to the public.

The finance committee will recommend adoption of a budget that amends the previously introduced budget. The previous budget called for a 28% increase in the amount to be raised by taxes for municipal purposes, while the current proposed budget calls for a 4% increase in the amount to be raised by taxes for municipal purposes.

Although this is a dramatic improvement over the initial budget, it is not acceptable to me and I will propose additional cuts in the budget appropriations at tonight’s meeting. I feel that the real estate tax in Bound Brook is, and has been for some time, too large a burden for taxpayers to bear. This is even more so during this time of unprecedented economic difficulties faced by our nation and the world.

It is in your interest to attend this meeting and either voice your support or your opposition to the amended budget and or any proposed modifications offered at the meeting. To help you in making this decision I will e-mail to you, at your request, an Excel spreadsheet that provides the details of the proposed budget together with a summary printout.

The spreadsheet is presented as a summary, however if you “click” on the “+” signs to the left of the sheet it will open underlying details. There are 4 levels of detail that can be opened by department and then closed by “clicking” on the “-“ sign.

You may also open all departments at once by “clicking” on the numbers 1,2,3 or 4 at the top of the left hand columns.

E-mail or call me 732-469-3983 if you have any questions and please forward this to anyone that you feel has an interest in Bound Brook taxes.

Councilman Ben Auletta

A visit to the Cherry Blossom Display Newark NJ

2009-04-11T10:00:00.005-04:00

Bound Brook is an attractive residential community but we do not have much open space so "brookers" have to travel a bit to picnic in a park. I know of a picturesque spot in the town of my birth - Newark, NJ (approximately 30 miles or 45 minutes away) that has a display of Cherry Blossoms that rivals the famous display in Washington, D. C. The clip above was taken by me a few years ago.

Check the live Webcam link Here to be certain they are in full bloom before you visit.

The address to map the location is 115 Clifton Ave., Newark, NJ

Democrats seeking $ from Democratic Congress

2009-02-08T12:50:00.003-05:00

Just to update you. The Borough has supplied a list of "ready to go" projects to our congressmen for consideration for grants from the stimulus package. Our "wish list" totals $5 1/2 million for the following projects:

$2,227,500 for Watchung Road rehabilitation

$1,271,875 for Metape Area Reconstruction

$1,740,188 for High Street rehabilitation

$300,000 for Vosseller Avenue Sanitary Sewer Lining

These are all projects that we really need to do and the plans are already prepared. We just need to find the money.

Changes, always Changes!

2008-07-19T11:12:00.000-04:00

I am no longer the Chairman of the Bound Brook Municipal committee (I am still a committee member).

I have moved on to serve as Assistant treasurer of the Somerset County Democratic Committee and a member of the Executive Committee. My continuing service as an elected member of the Bound Brook Borough Council has made clear to me the importance of becoming more involved and focused on governmental activity at the County, State and National levels. Consequently, although I will continue my concerns with happenings in Bound Brook I intend expand my “sights” to monitor and seek meaningful participation at these higher levels.

I welcome discourse from citizens on issues and will always help patriots to become more involved in our self-government. Do not hesitate to contact me with your concerns, your questions and/or your desire to help as a volunteer or as a candidate for an elected or appointed position.

There is always a place for people to help, including helping me in meeting my responsibilities as a borough councilman. There are numerous opportunities to enjoy the satisfaction, excitement and fun of working in an election campaign in Bound Brook, the Freeholder race, or even for our next congresswomen, Linda Stender. Just call and I can get you “connected” for a short campaign service or for a year round opportunity for public service.

For more information on “getting involved” read my March 1, 2008 blog entry “An invitation to the party”

An invitation to the "party"

2008-03-01T14:25:00.003-05:00

Like the United States Marine Corps - we are always looking for a few good men (or women). We are currently interviewing Bound Brook residents who are interested in becoming a candidate for the Borough Council.

Invitation to the “party”- Help Wanted

The Bound Brook Democrats are seeking Citizen-Patriots for the following positions. The pay is minimal (actually there is no pay), but the benefits can be outstanding and extremely satisfying!

Loyal and dedicated Bound Brook residents who wish to be a true participant in effective and benevolent self-government contact Democratic Municipal Chairman, Ben Auletta 732-469-7778, auletta@verizon.net For more information, or to apply. (Volunteers do not have to be residents of Bound Brook)

Training, assistance and ongoing guidance will be available for all positions.

Elected Officials

Candidate for Borough Council - often thankless and unappreciated but vital to the well-being of Bound Brook and it's citizens. Council member, acting as part of a team is responsible for monitoring and managing the operation of local government through policy setting deliberation. Primary task is preparation of annual budget and overseeing use of taxpayer’s dollars while maintaining public health and safety and necessary public services and zealously protecting the interests of the citizens. Rewards include personal satisfaction for a job well done, some degree of fame and recognition, possible stepping stone to further personal achievement, and grateful recognition of your civic contribution. Involvement as an “insider” an a daily basis results in an increased awareness of what is happening in the world around us and the excitement of being able to influence decisions affecting many people.

Skills required: self confidence and a willingness to learn, integrity and honesty, outgoing, people oriented team player with a public and or private record of achievement and service.

Municipal Committee Person – the heart of the Democratic Party. These elected party officials are the closest to party members and their “grass roots” efforts are the key to wining elections and the achievement and maintenance of effective government that is responsive to the needs and desires of our citizens. They possess fundamental powers and authority that can significantly impact government at all levels. They appoint the Bound Brook Democratic Municipal Chair and the Somerset County Chair and are extremely influential in recruiting and selecting candidates for elected and appointed office at all levels of government as well as helping to set policies and positions on legislative issues.

Requires a warm outgoing and social personality. Must truly like people and enjoy interacting with and helping others. Year round position of contact with your neighbors. Responsible for activities within a few blocks of your residence. Includes getting to know your neighbors opinions and needs and providing for a two-way flow of information about government issues and activity. Facilitates and helps neighbors interaction with government entities. Required to assist in election campaigns. Successful performance of your duties and knowledge of citizen preferences provides an increasingly powerful voice in government affairs and the ability to influence decisions.

Volunteers

Campaign Volunteer – The process of enlightened self-government starts here! Without the efforts of so many public-spirited patriots the opportunity to elect the best candidates for office will fail. There numerous tasks to be performed during campaigns that can range in time and effort expended from a few hours or days to seemingly full time efforts. The choice is yours and whatever time and/or money you can contribute will be welcome and truly appreciated. Learning about the candidates and issues and helping others to know and understand them is the basis of all your activity. You may be called upon to make telephone calls, deliver literature, accompany candidates while they campaign, research issues, raise funds, hold socials with your neighbors, canvass door to door, research issues, be part of the campaign planning team, serve as an election day challenger, put up lawn signs, design campaign literature and arrange for printing, help prepare mailings and a wealth of needed task as they arise. You can decide to work on local, county, state or national campaigns or combinations of several.

Serving on - Boards, Committees, or as legislative assistants on elected officials staff.

The many opportunities for public service can be exciting and interesting and will give you the chance to use your special skills and knowledge to improve the quality of life of all citizens – your friends, your family and of course yourself. Serving a term on a governing advisory board or on special project studies can be very self-satisfying and well as providing a “graduate level” educational opportunity.

You can be very selective on the topics that are of particular interest to you and you can control the demands on your time to match what you are willing to give. Public service can be a true life enriching experience.

JOIN OUR TALENT BANK – Let us know your interests or let’s just talk and we will try to guide you to what could be a possible place to start. If what you are interested in is not currently available we will keep your information on file and contact you when an appropriate opportunity arises.

IF YOU CANNOT CONTRIBUTE YOUR TIME JUST YET – Please consider contributing your money! – Make checks payable to: “The Bound Brook Democratic Municipal Committee” 44 W. Union Avenue, Bound Brook NJ 08805

Until Next time,

Ben

My Reasons For Opposing Borough Attorney Appointment of James G. O'Donohue of Hill Wallack LLP

2008-01-02T22:25:00.000-05:00

Here is a little insight as to the discussion involving the appointment of James O'Donohue as the Borough Attorney.

It is simply a matter of economics!

We have the opportunity to secure the services of an extremely competent Attorney and his firm at substantially lower cost than the firm that was re-appointed at the reorganization meeting.

Three firms applied for consideration. All three are contributors to political organizations. Because of this they are subject to NJ’s new “Pay to play” laws and consequently Bound Brook considered them under the “Fair and Open Process” rules. The law is an effort to establish limits on political contributions to elected officials. These rules are also meant to protect the right of individuals and organizations to participate in the political process. The rules add “transparency” to the process of awarding contracts that are not subject to the rigor of the formal bidding process.

The law includes several standards of procedure that are designed to protect the public interest. One such standard used is “choosing the lowest responsible bidder” as used in traditional public bidding.

The three firms and their bids were:

Hill Wallack (James O'Donohue) $195.00 per hour
Mason, Griffin & Pierson $175.00 per hour
Ventantonio & Wildenhain (Elia Pelios) $155.00 per hour

As you can see, our present attorney’s bid was 26% higher then the lowest bid.

My reason for preferring Ventantonio is obvious; the firm is the “lowest responsible bidder”. There’s no hidden agenda, no ulterior motives. My support lies with the firm I feel can do the job well at a fair and competitive fee.

As I stated at the meeting, “Loyalty to friends and supporters is admirable, but when that loyalty overrides the best interests of the community it should be discarded.

In addition to being able to secure the services of a competent attorney the firm is local – Warren, NJ – and should have a better “feel’ for the needs of Bound Brook as well as having extensive local and statewide contacts, and offer easily accessibility. They have the expertise needed – understanding of municipal legal issues. Also, they are large enough to provide the services required, yet small enough for it to be important for them to maintain Bound Brook as a client.

To see clips from the 1/1/08 meeting or any council meeting go to Council Meeting Video Clips & Updates (Click on any of the green words) Thanks to Joe Lemire for putting up the clips on http://www.08805.com/.

Until Next Time!

Ben

Auletta vs Nicholson Recount

2007-12-03T23:52:00.000-05:00

The recount of the election results challenging my election is now history!

If you are curious to see how the recount was conducted view the video that we prepared

I am pleased to report that the results stand and I actually gained one vote from the process (1 absentee ballet vote for me was missed in the original tally). I am happy to be able to put this behind me and to give my full attention to serving on the Borough Council. My intention is to be a proactive councilman and strive to engage more of our citizens in the practice of self-government by keeping them fully informed of what is happening in our governing body and in particular my personal thoughts on the issues facing us and the actions that we take.

My goal is to win over more of the voters through performing in response to the wishes and needs of our community and to actions that protect their interests. If I choose to run again I aim to earn a more decisive victory by helping to move Bound Brook forward with improvements that we can all be proud of!

That you for giving me the opportunity to do so.

Star-Ledger Article: http://www.nj.com/starledger/stories/index.ssf?/base/news-2/1196746526108820.xml&coll=1

Courier News Article: http://www.c-n.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071204/NEWS01/712040332/1006/NEWS01

Until next time,

Ben

Councilman Elect Anthony Pranzatelli and I attend first class

2007-11-30T02:32:00.000-05:00

I thought that you ought to know that we attended our first class in the "Powers and Duties of the Municipal Governing Body" (click red text to go to that website) class that is offered by the Center for Government Services at Rutgers University. It is a 15 hour, 5 session course that is geared to make elected officials more effective and productive.

We understand that municipal government responsibilities are broad, extensive, and impact on the quality of life of all citizens. Tony and I do take the trust that you have placed in us seriously and truly desire to safeguard your interests. To do so requires extensive knowledge of how government works as well as absorbing technical knowledge and proficiency in a multitude of subjects.

I believe that all those good citizens who desire to serve their communities should arm themselves with as many governing and management skills as they can. In fact I feel that this should be mandatory for all elected officials as well as candidates for public office so that they fully understand the nature of the office that they are seeking.

The NJ School Boards Association does indeed offer a candidate briefing seminar for all School Board Candidates. NJ under the NJ School Ethics Act requires mandatory training requirements that must be fulfilled by successful candidates during their first year of service on a school board. I was successful in completing a series of school board member courses while serving as a member of the Bound Brook Board of Education and achieved the "Certificated School Board Member " certification. The courses were extremely useful.

Until next time,

Ben

Bound Brook, NJ Veterans Day Mass, Breakfast and Ceremony Video

2007-11-30T01:34:00.000-05:00

Nov 27 Council Meeting and my first legislative attempt!

2007-11-27T06:10:00.000-05:00

I introduced my very first suggested resolution as a newly elected Councilman at this meeting.

It was a resolution requesting the council’s approval of a complete revision of our antiquated council by-laws. I prepared this rewrite using “Robert’s Rules of Order” and NJ Statutes as a source of information. This document will give you a clear insight into just what your council does and how they do it in carrying out the responsibilities of self-government. If you would like a copy contact me.

In future action I also plan to seek the preparation of an administrative code for Bound Brook. The purpose of the code is similar to what business organizations call a "Policy & Procedures Manual". The objective is to instill a more efficient and orderly administrative process and to make it easier to hold us all accountable for meeting our responsabilities as well as serving as guidelines for consistancy in doing our jobs. This will also help to make our government more “transparent” and make it easier for citizens to influence what we do. My personal objective is to make it easier for citizen involvement!

Until Next time,

Ben

Thanksgiving. Also Bound Brook Economic Development Advisory Committee

2007-11-25T10:57:00.000-05:00

Isn't this the best of seasons, allowing us to enjoy our families and friends. I hope that all of you had an enriching Thanksgiving celebration. I spent mine with my family and thoroughly enjoyed interacting with my granddaughters (and yes, doing a little Friday morning shopping!).

Being the time to reflect on what we're thankful for, one item on my list is that there are people who care about others and are willing to give of themselves to really help make our self-government a successful reality. One of my assignments and responsibilities as a Councilman is to serve as 2007 council liaison to the Bound Brook Economic Development Advisory Committee. In fulfilling this duty I attended the November meeting of the committee and was impressed by the talented and dedicated people on the committee.

The Committee was organized in May of this year and its members are:

2010 Richard Shive - Chairman
2010 Trish Smith
2010 Kerry Miller – Vice Chair
2009 Fred Llaverias
2009 Charles Terytek
2009 Nancy Jorden
2008 Charles Schwall
2008 Davis Morris
2008 Margaret Lyons

(if you would like more information about the duties and powers of the committee please ask and I will provide a copy of the enabling legislation)

The Committee was given an enormous responsibility for advising and assisting the Borough Council in nurturing the commercial aspects within our community. The council believes that “partnering” with businessman to make Bound Brook an attractive and profitable business location will benefit all of us through increased tax ratables and the convenient availability of goods and services. The success of this committee is vital to the citizens of Bound Brook. I got the distinct impression that while the committee is anxious to stimulate economic development it is determined to hold the interests of the community uppermost.

This last meeting was focused on a current program to make the business community aware of the requirements in the Borough’s sign ordinance in preparation of anticipated code enforcement activity. The committee believes that the sign ordinance encourages uniformity and the maintenance of a desirable “look” to our shopping districts that are inviting to the public and sends a clear message of who we are. The approached is to be helpful and supportive – not to generate undue hardship. Please contact me to discuss any concerns that you may have.

The sign section of the ordinance is Chapter 21-10.5.

You may access the sign ordinance by clicking on the following link Go to Chapter 21, then to subchapter 10.5

Until Next time!

Ben

About my First Council Meeting

2007-11-19T09:35:00.000-05:00

On November 13 I attended my first meeting of the Bound Brook Borough Council in this term as a Councilman.

As I promised, I am reporting to you a summary of the relevant actions taken or issues discussed.

Click on the "Red" Words to view video clips.

Comments from the public included concern about property maintenance code enforcement at 3 specific properties. I have since visited those properties and agree that the concerns are justified and I am currently investigating the situation and plan to report to you and the specific citizens voicing their concerns how your government will deal with the situation. I believe that it is your elected officials’ responsibility to respond to legitimate questions from our citizens. I encourage you to contact us with your questions and /or needs and requests. I personally will do what I can to get you answers and explanations if not action.

Another issue brought up by a citizen living on Watchung Road was a request to repave the street and deal with water problems. This is a difficult issue to resolve because we have a number of conflicting desires that appear to be impossible to satisfy in a fiscally responsible manner. A substantial number of concerned (and angry) residents approached the Council with their desire to maintain the current natural environment and not endanger trees in the center island. To do so would require roadwork that would not have a life expectancy to justify the expenditures. At the insistence of these vocal citizens the Council decided to stop the project and consider reallocating the funds that were provided for this project. Council members may revisit this issue in the future.
Our Borough Engineers reported on a list of other road conditions throughout the Borough that requires attention and actions mandated by the State or County. These continuing needs and associated costs are overwhelming to me. Eventually we will have to attend to them all.

The Council enacted a well-deserved promotion of Acting Chief of Police Thomas White to Deputy Chief. His salary was not increased and he will continue to serve as acting chief.

The Council increased annual dog license fees from $8 and $11, to $18 and $21 to match NJ suggested fees and to help cover our costs for animal control.

Here is another example of what it costs to run the Borough. We entered into an agreement with Bridgewater to process our collected leaves for 3 months for a fee of $10,500.00. At this point, this is our only recourse.

Drunk drivers – don’t do it in Bound Brook! Borough Police will provide for increased police presence in connection with the state program “Over the limit under arrest 2007 year end crackdown” program to attempt to cut down on impaired driving. The state of NJ will provide for up to $5,000.00 in overtime enforcement grants funding.

Thanks to Joe Lemire at http://www.08805.com/ for the video clips

Until Next time,

Ben

Video Of Me Being Sworn In

2007-11-14T11:40:00.000-05:00

http://www.08805.com/media/video/council/ba111307.wmv

It’s Official! I start Tuesday 11/13/2007 @ 7pm

2007-11-11T18:43:00.000-05:00

I attended a really special tribute to our veterans this morning and was honored to sit with the guys who won WW II and other wars (no I was not with them back then – my service did not start until 1959). A lot of good people came out to show their appreciation for the gifts that their courage and patriotism gave us. Those of you who did not make it this year please plan to join us next year.

While at the special ceremonies I was asked by quite a few citizens if my election to Borough Council held up. Well, I will be sworn in this Tuesday (11/13/07 at 7PM). It would be very nice to see you there.

While I will accept the seat it really belongs to you – the people who put me there and especially our great campaign team. I owe a special thanks to our campaign chairman, Karen Carroll and my energetic running mates – Javier, Tony and Debbie.
Although I'm appreciative of many who helped and contributed to the campaign, I do want to mention always faithful and loyal Democrat, Jean Mangino and her son-in law Brad Higginbottom who served as our treasurer. Of course I can't forget my super-charged son Ben, Jr. who worked tirelessly delivering literature and posting and retrieving lawn signs. He also pushed me to keep campaigning, was our media contact and offered campaign ideas.

I hope that you will take advantage of my position on the council to input your thoughts and desires for how our government should be conducted. I do want to hear from you and I will attempt to keep you informed with what your government is doing. If you are pleased with my performance, that's great. If my choices disappoint you, please tell me (in private) and lets discuss the issue.

The Latest From Late Night Comedians:

Jay Leno-"Hey, don't forget to turn your clocks back an hour this weekend. You get an extra hour of sleep. It's kind of like watching a Fred Thompson speech."

Until Next Time,

Ben

Let’s come out for our Military Veterans

2007-11-10T16:52:00.000-05:00

Sunday, November 11, is the day to show our appreciation for those who stepped up to defend our country – often putting their lives in danger for the protection of all of us. We can never give them back what they lost, but we can honor the memory of those brave men and women who are no longer with us and demonstrate our gratitude to the vets among us by joining with them at the Veterans Day Ceremonies.

In Bound Brook please attend the special Veterans Day ceremonies starting with an 8:30 a.m. Veterans Day Mass at St. Joseph’s Church, Mountain Avenue and High Street. William Siebel, commander of the American Legion Giles-Biondi Post No. 63 of Bound Brook with Father Charles O’Connor will conduct the ceremony. There also will be a procession of flags. Participating veterans are encouraged to wear uniforms if they have them. For more information, call Bill Siebel at (732) 356-8762. A breakfast for all veterans, their families, and residents will follow in the Holy Family Academy gymnasium on Second Street. Cost for the breakfast is $7.00 for adults and $5.00 for children age 12 or younger.

At 11:00 a.m. a Ceremony will be conducted at the monument island at the intersection of Union Avenue and Vosseller Ave.

Let’s all be there for them!

Until next time,

Ben

Thank You!

2007-11-09T09:06:00.000-05:00

Newly Elected Councilmen - Ben Auletta and Anthony "Tony" Pranzatelli

I think that it is now the appropriate time to thank the voters who supported my candidacy and elected me to the Bound Brook Borough Council. I especially thank our campaign manager, Karen Carroll and the entire campaign staff, and my running mates who energized our campaign.

Yesterday my victory was essentially confirmed and I await my official certification. I am eager and ready to assume my responsibilities in service to all the citizens of Bound Brook. Both parties and Mrs. Pounaras enthusiastically waged the campaign and I congratulate the victors, Tony Pranzatelli, Jeff Thompson, and Carey Pilato and I look forward to a proactive and dedicated 2008 council.

The following excerpts from this mornings’ Star-Ledger and the Courier News explain what happened to place the results in doubt:
Extra ballots augment victories
Bound Brook could have oath delayed
Friday, November 09, 2007
BY CATHY BUGMAN
Star-Ledger Staff
The winners in tight races for council seats in Bernardsville and Bound Brook expanded their margins of victory yesterday after Somerset County election officials opened provisional ballots.
Provisional ballots … gave wider edges of victory to Bernardsville Republican Councilmen-elect Kevin Sooy and Edward McDowell as well as Democratic Bound Brook Councilman-elect Ben Auletta.

County election commissioners and office staff unzipped bright orange bags containing provisional ballots before an audience of candidates, party leaders and others interested in the outcome.

In Bound Brook, Auletta yesterday took on an additional six votes to bring his new total to 816, while Republican incumbent Jacquelyn Nicholson gained another three votes, bringing her up to 807 votes.
While it's anticipated that Auletta will take the oath of office and replace Nicholson at Tuesday night's council meeting, it will depend on the borough's receiving a "certificate of election" from County Clerk Radi.
The certificate could be held up by county Election Board Administrator Jerry Midgette, who said his office is seeking a court order to open a voting machine from District 3 in Bound Brook and from District 18 in Bridgewater to check whether any provisional ballots possibly locked inside them would alter the results in a significant way.
Once that is done, Radi's office can certify the election results, allowing the swearing-in ceremony to commence in Bound Brook.

Auletta, a former councilman and member of the planning and school boards, said he has two ordinances already drafted -- one concerning the proliferation of signs and the other on public decorum at meetings -- and is looking forward to presenting them.
"I'm anxious to get to work," he said.
Cathy Bugman works in the Somerset County bureau. She may be reached at cbugman@starledger.com or (908) 429-9925.

Vote count continues for Bound Brook council seat
Results confirm GOP council sweep in Bernardsville.
By MARTIN C. BRICKETTO
STAFF WRITER Courier News
SOMERVILLE -- Two days after the election, the race for a two-year, unexpired term on the Bound Brook Borough Council between Democrat Ben Auletta Sr. and Republican Jacquelyn Nicholson still isn't officially settled.
Provisional ballots counted so far continue to show Auletta leading Nicholson 816 to 807, Somerset County Clerk Brett Radi said Thursday.
But Radi added that a bag for provisional ballots remains inside one voting machine, and the Somerset County Board of Elections is pursuing a court order to retrieve that bag and count any ballots.
Until that takes place, Radi said he will not certify the results.

An Auletta victory will mean a council in Bound Brook evenly split 3-3 between Democrats and Republicans…

Until Next Time,

Ben (I plan to update this after every meeting i attend)

Join the Citizen Army!

2007-11-02T00:36:00.001-04:00

I just returned from the Bound Brook Mayoral Candidates’ debate at St Joseph’s School gymnasium. Video of the debate to be post on http://www.08805.com/

Father Charlie, the host moderator of the debate, made a powerful and profound statement. He said that all of the candidates have demonstrated their dedication to the community and that he would be proud to serve as a citizen under anyone of them.

I never heard it put that way! As I thought about what he said it struck me that that is exactly what we must all do in order to survive as a nation and keep our traditions of self-government, independence and our precious four freedoms as depicted by Norman Rockwell’s famous paintings – Freedom from Fear, freedom from Want, Freedom of Speech, freedom to Worship.
Serving as a citizen means meeting the responsibilities of citizenship. There are six basic responsibilities of U.S. Citizenship – five mandatory and one voluntary. The voluntary one is voting.

The right to vote is a duty or responsibility as well as a privilege. It is important for all citizens to vote in every election to make sure that the democratic, representative system of government is maintained. Persons who do not vote lose their voice in the government. Before voting in an election, each citizen should be well informed about the issues and candidates.

I was in the company of almost 200 Bound Brookers who apparently take their citizenship seriously and are willing to “serve as citizens”. I salute them.

I also salute the candidates Phyllis Pounaras, Javier Vasquez, and Cary Pilato for being there and for their willingness to serve. I thought that they handled the questions posed to them well (although I did not believe some of the rhetoric). I was particularly impressed by Javier’s knowledge of the needs of Bound Brook and his ideas on how to meet them. I’m sorry to say that the performance and words of Cary Pilato were tarnished by his rude refusal to accept my congratulatory handshake. It underscored his propensity to say what sounds nice but not what he truly believes. He indicated during his discourse something to the effect that people had the right to disagree but that we were still all friends and neighbors. Apparently I am not considered a citizen who deserves the same respect that I pay him.

Both Javier and Phyllis graciously accepted my heartfelt congratulations.

The Latest From Late Night Comedians:

Conan O'Brien-10/31/07 -"Last night during the Democratic presidential debate, Senator Barack Obama accused Hillary Clinton of frequently changing positions. After hearing this, Bill Clinton said, 'I wish.'"

Until Next Time,

Ben

Where are the Republicans and Independents?

2007-10-28T13:24:00.000-04:00

Photo: 2007 Bound Brook Democratic Candidates: Ben F. Auletta, Anthony "Tony" Pranzatelli, Debbie Cozza, Javier G. Vasquez

Where are the Republicans and Independents?

Today (Sunday – Oct 28) the Courier-News published information on all local candidates for election. click here for The Courier News Election article

C-N requested information from all candidates, weeks ago. It is painfully revealing to see that the Bound Brook Republican candidates and the one Independent candidate did not provide any information about themselves. This omission underscores their lack of real interest in meeting their responsibilities as citizens, besides revealing their disrespect to the citizens of Bound Brook who are entitled to hear from those who seek to represent their interests as elected officials (you will not find them on cable TV (See our speeches below), nor in the Star-Ledger either – but you will find the Democrats). It makes me wonder if they really care to be elected!

Every single Bound Brook Democratic candidate did communicate his or her outstanding qualifications for public service.

It is these very same qualifications and abilities that encouraged me to seek to recover my former seat on the council.
· Javier Vasquez – a conscientious current councilman who attends most community events because he really cares about Bound Brook. Has appropriate education and experience. Takes his responsibility seriously and does his job. Has leadership ability – works amicably with citizens and other officials and has developed valuable contacts throughout the state. He would be a Mayor that we can be proud of and one that would not bring embarrassment to Bound Brook.
· Debbie Cozza – a former councilwoman with a distinguished record of community service and governing experience.
· Tony Pranzatelli – an independent businessman with energy and creativity who will bring a fresh view to the council table.
· Ben Auletta – with years of experience and service in business and government operation with special expertise, education, and training in finance, planning, and cost reduction techniques.

I am excited about the possibilities for real progress in “putting Bound Brook first”. A new Democratic council has the potential to be one the best in the history of Bound Brook. From my conversations with citizens I am convinced that there are two very real concerns – high property tax and property market value.

The first is obvious – it simply costs too much to live in NJ. Even paying off the mortgage does not give you complete ownership of your property. You always have a landlord – the municipality that you live in – and they are always raising the rent. The reputation of living in a flood-prone community together with these high taxes exerts a downward pressure on property market value.

Our team’s main concerns are:
· Getting flood project completed
a. Make daily contacts by borough officials, together with citizen volunteers to keep updated on status of project
b. Keep badgering and pressuring anyone who is in a position to help secure funds from Federal, State, and county resources to complete the project now. Stop ignoring the needs of Somerset County’s oldest community -30 years is an unreasonably long time to wait. We have been patient long enough – especially when we see how much government money is being spent all around us. Maybe we need to develop a basis for action through the court system.
c. When project is complete – turn our attention to redevelopment to generate increased revenue and improve property market vales in community.

· Real Estate Tax
Thoroughly study current Borough Government organization, policies and procedures with an eye towards re-engineering them for more efficient operation and instilling true control systems in order to control costs and deliver enhanced services. Need to demand more economic support from higher levels of government and seek worthwhile grants and shared services opportunities.

· Dealing with our changing demographics

With your help – and of course your votes – we can succeed.

Links to speeches and Interviews: My Interview with the guys at http://www.08805.com/ here is the link: Ben Auletta, Sr. Interview (if this link does work go to http://www.08805.com/) all other speeches can be found at http://www.08805.com/
Here are speeches from youtube:
BB Seniors Candidate’s Night My SpeechThe other Speeches can be found at Link To Other Dems Speeches
BB Candidate’s Speeches from Piscataway TV Candidates Forum My SpeechThe other Speeches can be found at Link To Other Dems Speeches

Until Next time

Ben

The Latest From Late Night Comedians:
Conan O'Brien 10/18/2007-"Presidential candidate Dennis Kucinich caused some trouble this week, because he was campaigning in Red Sox territory while wearing a Cleveland Indians hat. Apparently, somebody walked up to Kucinich's wife and said, 'Tell your son to take off that baseball hat.'"

Are we repeating the mistakes of Vietnam?

2007-09-24T20:44:00.000-04:00

I want to share some material from newsman Bob Schieffer’s recent book “Face the Nation”. On page 87 he quotes President Nixon’s chief of staff, H.R. Haldeman commenting to the President on the implications of the printing of the “Pentagon Papers” in the NY Times the day before - “Out of the gobbledygook, comes a very clear thing … you can’t trust the government, you can not believe what they say and you can’t rely on their judgment. And, the implicit infallibility of presidents, which has been an accepted thing in America is badly hurt by this because it shows that people do things the President wants to do even though it is wrong and the President can be wrong.”

The “Pentagon Papers” was a top-secret government document that was released to the press by Daniel Ellsberg, a think tank analyst and a Vietnam veteran, that detailed the decision making process of policy makers in the Kennedy and Johnson administrations who had taken the county to war in Vietnam. The report indicated that time and again, over years of the war, those government officials lied to us. The favorable reports of real progress and achievement were in direct contradiction of the facts and in what they themselves truly knew and believed. We all know the results of that deception.

Sound familiar?

We are constantly hearing conflicting reports of success in Iraq, but all we see are more of our kids and Iraq citizens dieing, enormous amounts of money being spent, no relief from high gasoline prices, and lots of money being made by defense contractors and Exxon. However we see no near end of the war, which has already lasted longer then WW II, in sight! And we really do not have a clear and believable reason for continuing.

The Latest From Late Night Comedians:

Jay Leno: "It's getting pretty nasty out there on the campaign trail. This week, Hillary Clinton referred to Vice President Dick Cheney as Darth Vader. And today, he demanded an apology -- not Dick Cheney, Darth Vader."

Jay Leno: Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said, "'There are 300 million people in America with many different points of view.' As opposed to Iran, which has 70 million people who aren't allowed any point of view."

Until next time.

Ben

BB Downtown Gets Money To Help Restart After Flood

2007-09-08T09:17:00.000-04:00

Bound Brook's downtown business community received some welcome aide from unexpected sources. Not from where you would most expect - not from government sources - but from fellow businessmen.

Grainger, a Fortune 500 company and a perennial member of Fortune magazine's Most Admired Companies list provided $1,515.15 checks to individual Bound Brook, NJ Business entities on Main Street that suffered catastrophic losses during the April 15, 2007 flood. Among criteria for receiving the funds was the likelihood of continued presence in Bound Brook.Partnering with Grainger was the Somerset Business Partnership that awarded these same businesses a one year paid membership in the Partnership.Video clips of the presentation at the Van Horne Plaza downtown can be viewed by scrolling down to the two screens below and clicking on each clip.
Until next time
Ben

Jay Leno: "Well, the Republicans had their 789th debate last night. The big issue, of course, was the war in Iraq, and the candidates were split over it. Some Republicans were in favor of it. The other Republicans were really, really in favor of it”

Bound Brook Police Department National Night Out Against Crime

2007-08-07T20:24:00.000-04:00

The Bound Brook Police Department hosted this year's National Night Out Against Crime at Codrington Park. It is really a good community "meet your neighbor" event. There were plenty of kids enjoying the activities accompanied by quite a few adults. The food and drink was plentiful - they wanted to be certain that they did not run out of food like the previous year - and no one was disappointed. The police Department is to be commended for doing this for our community.

Everyone was super friendly and the Police Dept seemed to have ample volunteer helpers. The police were also signing up neighborhood watch activists and had a table loaded with crime prevention brochures and a manual for neighborhood watch procedures. I urge all citizens to contact the Bound Brook Police Department to get more information about the program. Citizen safety and security is a major concern for all of us, particularly in light of the recent accounts of home break-ins and increased crime in nearby communities, (thankfully, Bound Brook has not been targeted) but prevention is better than correction!

The Latest From Late Night Comedians:

Jay Leno: "It seems a brain-injured man who had been in a coma for the last six years, is now awake, eating and speaking with his family. In fact, you know what you call a man who has been in a coma for the last six years? 'Mr. President.'"

Until Till next time - Ben

2007-06-07T15:33:00.000-04:00

June 7, 2007

You gotta see it to believe it!
At 8:00 AM this morning I looked up into the sky and viewed the above scene over our Bound Brook.

Looked like the morning rush hour in the sky. We have all heard the complaints about airplane flight patterns and how they would create annoying noise (and possibly potential harm) – but I never could grasp the extent of the problem that they were talking about.

I did some research and turned up the “New Jersey Coalition Against Aircraft Noise”(NJCAAN) and looking at the maps on their website -à http://www.njcaan.org/ I discovered that we are very near the heavy traffic routes and directly under the incoming traffic holding patterns. NJCAAN is a volunteer citizens group working to address airport and airplane noise pollution by promoting:

Aircraft routes that limit flights over residential area; and

The use of quieter Stage 3 and Stage 4 aircraft.

NJCAAN's airspace proposals rely on the use of industrial areas, ocean airspace, higher altitudes and other procedures for noise abatement. These proposals bring significant relief to over one million citizens affected by aircraft noise from Newark International Airport; to Bergen and Passaic County residents affected by LaGuardia International Airport; and to Monmouth and Ocean County residents affected by Kennedy International Airport.

NJCAAN believes that the FAA never seriously considered Ocean Routing and deliberately excluded it from a broader redesign alternative. In addition, the FAA completely excluded identifying noise abatement procedures to be included with its alternatives in the draft report for the project. As a result, it completely ignored the public's number one concern: AIRCRAFT NOISE ABATEMENT.

It never bothered me, but my son Dave lives in San Diego and is right under a flight path. Several times a day the noise overhead is so bad you cannot talk on the telephone! I recall thinking that I could never live in that place.

Seems like the critics might have something to be concerned about. This situation bears watching! (I couldn’t resist!)

Any Volunteers?

It would really be great if at least 1 of the 11,000 Bound Brook citizens would volunteer to keep an eye on the situation for us and alert our government officials and us when it may become necessary to take some action to ward off any increasing problems. Contact me and I will explain what you could do and get you “Official representative” status. It should not take much of your time and it would be an easy way to perform a public service.

The Latest From Late Night Comedians

Jay Leno - "Scooter Libby has been sentenced to 30 months in prison, even though he is a good friend of Vice President Dick Cheney. Hey, he got off easy. Cheney's other friend got shot in the face."

Until next time - Ben

2007-06-06T23:27:00.000-04:00

Today I start my first attempt at creating and maintaining a blog. I intend to comment about the political scene, what is happening in government, and what we as a political party in Bound Brook are doing.

I am happy to see our first successful 2007 campaign event come to a successful conclusion with the official Democratic Party nomination of our candidate for Mayor of Bound Brook - Javier Vasquez. I personally feel comfortable with a man as dedicated to serving Bound Brook as Javier. He is the only current councilman who we see at almost all public events in town. He has demonstrated a willingness to study issues and actually take action - not just fill a seat at the council table. He is always respectful and courteous and I can not imagine him ever embarrassing us or being argumentative, combative or abusive. He simply is interested in meeting his responsibilities and truly cares. That's the kind of person that I want looking after our interests as our Mayor.

Until - next time, Ben