The following article was originally published in the Home News, Saturday, October 17, 2009.  It can be accessed at the following link: http://mycentraljersey.com/article/20091017/OPINION02/910170312/1061

Break Dem stronghold in North Brunswick

As we approach the finish line of another election cycle where most of us are left disappointed by the candidates at the top of the ticket, I challenge my friends and neighbors to do something most will consider radical. How about this year, we concentrate on some local candidates and local issues?

I cannot find one person in North Brunswick who is not complaining about out-of-control taxes, road congestion, overcrowded neighborhoods and schools, due to illegal rental practices, etc.

We all agree that our town is not nearly as nice as it was 10 years ago, yet we cannot seem to vote for “change” in our municipal government.

For those who do not know, there are names near the bottom of the election ticket each and every year, and in my opinion, these people affect our daily lives more than the top of the ticket.

So here is my challenge to my community: Ask yourself if you are happy with automatic double-digit tax increases and reductions in services every year.

Think about whether or not you actually know who is living in your neighborhood.

Take a ride around town and ask yourself why so many retail and commercial buildings are empty.

Talk to your neighbors, and see if they are happy with the direction of our town. Ask your older kids if they plan to stay in North Brunswick and raise a family.

And then, do some reflection, some soul-searching, and some research, and ask yourself if another year of status quo with your local government is satisfactory. For me, the answer is no.

One-party rule in North Brunswick and Middlesex County has not benefited my neighbors, my community or me. The only way to address the issues that concern us is to bring some balance, some vision, and some opposition to town hall.

This year, North Brunswick has two very qualified, caring people looking to penetrate the iron wall of decade-long, one-party rule. Mary Chyb and Jordan Rickards are two people I have come to know as intelligent, knowledgeable, passionate and determined, promising assurance that our concerns will be addressed in an honest, open forum.

If you are looking for real “change” in local government, this is the ticket. I hope you consider every option.

DAVID BARNHARD

North Brunswick