As a former resident of Highland Lakes and a participant in the production of the 2010 Petition for a Referendum to change Vernon’s form of government to Mayor/Council under New Jersey’s Faulkner Act, I am writing here to endorse Sally Rinker for mayor.
As Sally’s friend, I have become familiar with her well-thought-out visions of how Vernon and its residents could flourish under new leadership.
She is a home builder and developer, and her service as mayor, a member of Vernon’s Land Use Board and Greenway Advisory Board, and chairwoman of the Environmental Committee underscores her abilities and knowledge and her genuine respect for Vernon taxpayers.
Vernon’s economic development has been impeded by former mayors’ scattered ideas, pet projects and lack of focus, thereby sharpening Sally’s proposed priorities as mayor, some of which include:
• Building out commercially zoned areas in town to achieve tax relief for residential property owners.
• Pro-active planning for road repairs.
• Offering tax incentives for small businesses to fill vacant store fronts.
• Eliminating wasteful spending by appointing a Financial Advisory Committee.
• Using grant money to improve the functionality and aesthetics of the Town Center.
• Hosting non-partisan mayor meetings for residents.
I believe Sally is truly capable of making Vernon and its residents thrive. It’s time to give her a chance.
Bonnie Rubin
Warwick, N.Y.