Bridges are built to bring us together. So, in a metaphorical sense, all of us involved in local government are involved in the building of bridges — in bringing together all kinds of people, ideas and ideals.
And, just as these metaphorical bridges are needed to overcome obstacles, so that we can build communities and, ultimately, cultures; physically sensible bridges of metal and paving overcome physically sensible obstacles to form complex economic systems, which enrich the lives of many. And, just as our metaphorical bridges require constant careful maintenance; so do their material reflections.
Later this month, Governor McGreevey will present his budget proposal for our next state fiscal year. It will outline his plan for bridging the gap between the needs of our citizens for quality public services and the resources, at hand, to meet those needs. Among those is the need, documented last Fall, by the Governor's Blue Ribbon Commission, for a doubling of the Local Aid component of the Transportation Trust Fund.
For almost 90 years,
the League has served
as the bridge between
local government and
state policy makers.
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But the State Budget and the future of transportation funding are just two of the issues that will confront the Legislature and the Administration this year. They are just two of the areas where the input of municipal officials will be crucial to New Jersey citizens and property tax payers, all around our Garden State. We will also need to make our voices heard on the costly proposed stormwater regulations, and on a host of other issues.
For almost 90 years, the League has served as the bridge between local government and state policy makers. But now, more than ever, we need the help of every municipal official in every municipality to ensure the integrity and maximize the utility of that bridge.
This month's Legislative Update column is an "Open Letter" from League President and South Bound Brook Mayor Jo-Anne B. Schubert. Please read it to learn how you can make the League's legislative advocacy program stronger by building and maintaining the "bridges" we need. And consult the special "Legislative Insert" for more information on our priorities and on the legislative process
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