VFW needs help, not runaround

On Aug. 24, 2015 an initiative petition was filed with the Vernon township clerk. The Wallkill Valley Memorial VFW Post 8441 is seeking a waiver for sewer connection fees in the amount of $20,992.50 established by the Vernon Township Municipal Utilities Authority.

To guarantee that the question appears on the Nov. 3, 2015 ballot, it must be delivered to the county clerk by September 10th. On Aug. 31st Councilman Daniel Kadish requested that the Vernon Township Council schedule a special meeting.

Township Attorney John Ursin advises in his email provided by Council President Rizzuto that, “The clerk has 20 days to certify the petition.” This is true, however, not every petition needs to be the subject of an “FBI” investigation as has become the standard in Vernon. The clerk may use the random sampling method to verify signatures and may certify the petition in much less than 20 days.

Mr. Ursin then states, “Once the review is complete the Clerk provides her findings to the council at its next regular meeting.” Also true, but this does not prohibit the Council from scheduling a special meeting. A special meeting requires 48 hours notice to the public. Mr. Ursin should be advising us how he can help — not hurt — this veterans organization.

The most troubling comment in Mr. Ursin’s email is “Given that the parties are experienced with these petitions, the question must be raised about the intentions of the petitioners.” He is apparently confused about these petitioners. This Committee of Petitioners consists of veterans and members of the VFW Women’s Auxiliary. They asked for help, not political or legal obstruction.

Mr. Ursin was the former VTMUA attorney who prepared its organization documents. His present actions raise questions about his failure to solve this problem as VTMUA Counsel and his potential conflict in dealing with it now as our township attorney.

Regardless of the outcome as to whether or not this question is on the ballot, let your voice be heard. On Nov. 3, get out and vote.

Jean Murphy
Vernon Township Councilwoman