Hello Plainfield. I'll need a few minutes to address the ignorance and arrogance of the "Minister of Information" -- the famous Dan Damon. You are a talented writer indeed but instead of using that tool to bring people together you spend most of your time trying to tear people down.
- To the Man in the Arena-
It is not the critic who counts, nor the man who points how the strong man stumbled or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena; whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly...who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, and spends himself in a worthy cause; who, at best, knows the triumph of high achievement; and who, at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.
--Teddy Roosevelt--
Dan, I really don't what happened in your life for you to become such a pathetic soul. When we met yesterday at the debate you looked real uncomfortable being in such close proximity to someone whose character you had unjustifiably attacked. I will not have my integrity and intelligence questioned by a disgruntled frustrated old man whose biggest contribution to our community is critcizing others. Your recent post not only tries to demean me it also belittles the contributions and comments of Deborah Dowe at the debate. During the debate she exemplified nothing but class and intelligence in my opinion. There are other candidates other than Mr. Storch to be considered here. If you think his record and performance in our community warrants his reelection, vote for him.
The residents of the 2nd ward are entitled to be given a fair representation of all the candidates views. They are tired of yellow journalism. They want results and that's why we have elections to change course and get somebody new into office when they are not satisfied. What are you afraid of? I think all that attended can attest to the fact that all candidates, including your pick Mr. Storch, were insightful and presented themselves well. But to you Tony Rucker was just a babbling idiot and Deborah Dowe was just good for a joke and occasional laugh. Cory could have said he was for building a landfill downtown and he still would have been your pick. So let's cut through the B.S. and ask why is that? Cory is going to have to earn this seat just like the rest of us, based upon his vision and his record. I know he has to be embarrassed by your piece. I hope he publicly comes out and distances himself from your rhetoric. Matter of fact I think that's a good idea, Cory when you read this post issue a statement on your blog condemning this lowering of the bar when it comes to public dialogue. Dan you're one of the reasons people get turned off by the process.
Let's revisit yesterday Dan. After the debate we were talking and I called Cory over to make he knew exactly where I stood on this accusation over his signs disappearing. So all three of us are standing there in a mini-huddle outside the conference room. I turn to you Dan and look you dead in your face then glance toward Cory with my hand on his shoulder and stated man to man I would never dishonor myself by pulling or having someone else pull signs out of someones yard. When Cory turned to you all I heard out of your mouth was a bunch of stammering.
Now let's take a look at your May 31st posting.
First on the Park Hotel. Yes this is Cory's field. Prior to this being an election issue Cory hasn't brought forward any solutions concerning this facility. He said he has been there many times. What suggestion has he ever brought forward for public debate? It doesn't take an expert to suggest something be done about mentally challenged people having to sit on 95 degree pavement in a parking lot. And anyone who has driven by there can see that.
Let's talk about why Cory is a no-brainer pick for council because of his experience on the planning board. Cory is in the very unique position of getting 2 bites at the apple. 1st when he votes as the council's sitting member on the planning board. 2nd when he votes as part of the governing body on the council. With all these development proposals has he once insisted that things like impact fees are part of any deal to ensure that the taxpayers of Plainfield don't get left holding the bag. Or that developers should be required to hire a percentage of Plainfield residents if they are qualified to work on the project. Did you mention that he voted yes to override zoning laws on the books to allow for a variance to place high density housing projects near some of our most treasured neighborhoods?
You were impressed by his insistence that the complete rail corridor needs to be developed. For your information our rail corridor is one of the last bastions of commercially zoned areas in this city. Once we loose it to residential development its gone forever. But the associated costs of that residential housing will be with us until the end of time. Do you know an additional 250 school-aged children costs this city 3.25 Million dollars? Which one of you two are going to pay for that? Siding with developers whose only care is to turn a profit is not what I see as good governance. Slapping the 'in need of development' designation may not be a big deal for you Dan, but for businesses they know that is just another step closer to the words eminent domain.
In your post, when I say something "I'm pitching an idea." When Cory says something he brings a wealth of experience to the table. On my idea of having a technology center downtown excuse me for not bringing the signed agreement with me to the debate last night. I'm currently not the councilperson. I think its a great idea. I've actually worked to create facilities like this while I was a Investment Advisor with Merrill Lynch. This project is something Cory should be a champion for, especially with his 6 years of experience on the school board. So let me get this straight you want me to negotiate with these "possible players" as a private citizen. Wow. What resolutions has Cory sponsored to advance the lives of the children our community during his tenure?
And yes Dan I do understand the budget process thank you. Do you know that the current way our departments determine how much money they have spent is to compare year over year numbers? Do you know that the city has no way of producing real-time line item expenditure costs on a ongoing basis? Because of this it make monitoring fiscal year spending almost impossible.
When it comes to 'outsiders' I made it perfectly clear at the debate that I thought it was a conflict of interest to have Jennifer Wenson-Maier at the position of Director of Economic Development for Plainfield considering he role as President of the Rahway City Council. Nothing personal against her. If you or Mr. Storch think that is a good idea for Plainfield you have the right to that opinion.
Dan, as far Plainfield's historical position of RCA's (the program where Plainfield received a one time allotment for accepting a affordable housing unit from another city)I advise you to know you facts before you run your mouth. As a matter of fact the Assembly just revisited that legislation earlier this year and for the record I will never waste another second responding to you again.
Plainfield. I'm interested in moving our city forward. I know how to get things done and I'm not afraid to speak the truth and confront the obstacles of stupidity, arrogance and ignorance no matter where it comes from. As your councilman you will know where I stand on the issues. As councilman of the 2nd ward you will see me on a regular basis holding town hall meetings to ensure that your concerns are known and understood. If I think something is bad for our city I'll respectfully vote no. That's every councilpersons responsibility. We have a Latin saying in the Marine Corps called "Sempre Fidelis" always faithful. If I am given the privilege to serve as you Councilman whether you live in the Crescent Historic District or Sleepy Hollow I will never forget my first obligation is to represent the concerns and interests of the residents of the 2nd ward. There are many things that are beyond my control but when it comes to effective leadership, I know I can deliver on that.
--Tony Rucker--
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Solutions to our Code enforcement dilema.
Plainfield's housing stock is one of its greatest assets. Code enforcement and the Inspection division although talked about in the same conversation really have two distinct roles. The inspection process is part of selling and buying a home. Most homeowners are required to get an inspection by their financier. Code Enforcement relates more to existing home owners or rental units, apart from the transaction process.
So when it came to improving Plainfield's system I thought it was a good idea to speak with a municipality with a platform that is both efficient and effective. So I made it a point to have a conversation with the Chief inspector of New Brunswick, NJ. I chose New Brunswick because it has suburban and urban parts that make up their town just like Plainfield. In addition, I spoke with many of Plainfield's own inspectors to get their input on the matter. They all agreed that Plainfield needs to change the current code on the books and reduce the multitude of items the seller is required to complete before the certificate of compliance can be issued. The code should require that the subject property is safe to live in and is structurally sound. This would speed up the transaction process and free up our inspectors to go after the real violators of code enforcement. As your councilman, I would push for an ordinance to change the current code on the books, effectively limiting the scope and responsibilities of the inspectors. This solution is good for investors as well as home buyers and sellers.
Last night I stated my support for increasing the numbers of code enforcement inspectors. My opponent thinks we don't need more inspectors. I disagree. I stand behind my position and here's why. When it comes to code enforcement the department is woefully understaffed. When it comes to things like stacking, overcrowding and unauthorized building and maintenance we need more resources to enforce the rules that protect the integrity of our community. We have had multiple fires because of these unchecked violations. Imagine if you live on a quiet street in the Sleepy Hollow area. Your neighbor moves and rents their old house to a very nice family. At first all is well. Then violations begin to mount. Excessive trash makes it obvious that too many people are now occupying that dwelling. Who do you call for this kind of problem? The code enforcement division, but due to their lack of manpower they can't stay on top of things like this and believe me this is occurring all across the city. Cable wires running out of windows supplying Comcast to the multiple dwellings that have been created in one single family home. Sometimes I ask myself does anyone else notice this or is it just me?
Guess what happens when we don't have the necessary manpower to enforce our own rules, homeowners get to a point where they can't take it anymore and move. This causes a ripple effect throughout that neighborhood because the property value of the remaining homeowner is now reduced. Now the remaining homeowners either deal with the new eyesore or pack up and leave themselves. Property taxes in some areas of our community are between 10-20k. Even if your not a homeowner code enforcement rules are there to protect the quality of life for those who rent as well. But homeowners are not going to live next to an eyesore paying those kind of taxes. If you think it can't happen in your neighborhood think again. Many of our seniors who can no longer afford to continue to pay our higher than ever taxes are moving and using their old homes for rental income.
In closing, properly staffed divisions is key to unit effectiveness. We need to change the mission of these divisions and redirect them away from homeowners with minor violations and focus on overt violators of the law. We need to incorporate technology to make these divisions both more effective and efficient which was a part of my campaign platform from day one. I think these changes will allow our municipal employees to satisfy the true mission of both the Code and Inspections divisions for the City of Plainfield.
So when it came to improving Plainfield's system I thought it was a good idea to speak with a municipality with a platform that is both efficient and effective. So I made it a point to have a conversation with the Chief inspector of New Brunswick, NJ. I chose New Brunswick because it has suburban and urban parts that make up their town just like Plainfield. In addition, I spoke with many of Plainfield's own inspectors to get their input on the matter. They all agreed that Plainfield needs to change the current code on the books and reduce the multitude of items the seller is required to complete before the certificate of compliance can be issued. The code should require that the subject property is safe to live in and is structurally sound. This would speed up the transaction process and free up our inspectors to go after the real violators of code enforcement. As your councilman, I would push for an ordinance to change the current code on the books, effectively limiting the scope and responsibilities of the inspectors. This solution is good for investors as well as home buyers and sellers.
Last night I stated my support for increasing the numbers of code enforcement inspectors. My opponent thinks we don't need more inspectors. I disagree. I stand behind my position and here's why. When it comes to code enforcement the department is woefully understaffed. When it comes to things like stacking, overcrowding and unauthorized building and maintenance we need more resources to enforce the rules that protect the integrity of our community. We have had multiple fires because of these unchecked violations. Imagine if you live on a quiet street in the Sleepy Hollow area. Your neighbor moves and rents their old house to a very nice family. At first all is well. Then violations begin to mount. Excessive trash makes it obvious that too many people are now occupying that dwelling. Who do you call for this kind of problem? The code enforcement division, but due to their lack of manpower they can't stay on top of things like this and believe me this is occurring all across the city. Cable wires running out of windows supplying Comcast to the multiple dwellings that have been created in one single family home. Sometimes I ask myself does anyone else notice this or is it just me?
Guess what happens when we don't have the necessary manpower to enforce our own rules, homeowners get to a point where they can't take it anymore and move. This causes a ripple effect throughout that neighborhood because the property value of the remaining homeowner is now reduced. Now the remaining homeowners either deal with the new eyesore or pack up and leave themselves. Property taxes in some areas of our community are between 10-20k. Even if your not a homeowner code enforcement rules are there to protect the quality of life for those who rent as well. But homeowners are not going to live next to an eyesore paying those kind of taxes. If you think it can't happen in your neighborhood think again. Many of our seniors who can no longer afford to continue to pay our higher than ever taxes are moving and using their old homes for rental income.
In closing, properly staffed divisions is key to unit effectiveness. We need to change the mission of these divisions and redirect them away from homeowners with minor violations and focus on overt violators of the law. We need to incorporate technology to make these divisions both more effective and efficient which was a part of my campaign platform from day one. I think these changes will allow our municipal employees to satisfy the true mission of both the Code and Inspections divisions for the City of Plainfield.
Plainfield. Let's dare to be great!
I would like to thank all who came out and attended the community forum sponsored by the Crescent Avenue Association. I appreciate the time of all who made the event happen. I hope for this to be the start of many more opportunities to get people involved in the process.
Unfortunately I left my camcorder on the night before so to all I promised a youtube of the event I'm sorry, the battery was dead. But I will make your comments and concerns available via youtube very soon. The event was a success in my eyes. I stayed focused on improving our community's economy through investment and education. Bringing all of our residents into the process via proactive leadership was a theme of mine.
During the forum I introduced the idea of establishing an education/technology center in downtown Plainfield. It could be a consortium between Rutgers and other Universities willing to establish a remote site in Plainfield center. It could provide the first new high paying jobs this community has seen in a long time. Surrounded by 7 other cities it would bring dollars back into our economy. It would make Plainfield more competitive especially for those professionals that would like to teach in their community and spend more time closer to home. I think it would do alot to strengthen our community especially for families where stay-at-home Moms could become adjunct professors and still remain close to their children. It would allow our advanced high school students to take college level courses without needing a car. Keeping all the money they spend throughout the day within our community. As part of the concept we would include a business incubator that could be embraced by those who are not interested in higher education.
My vision also includes the use of MEP's Moblie Education Platforms. To bring education vans or platforms into the communities that need them most. It would increase parental involvement and could also be used for things like workshops that are so badly needed in some of our most economically challenged areas. This is an cost effective way of advancing education for our children. Excellence is something we must demand and expect. Education is a great place to start.
Yes, this could be Plainfield. a center of technology and education. Let's dare to be great.
--Tony Rucker--
The following is a link I provided in an earlier post. New concepts in urban development. I think there are a few things we can learn ,yes, even from the Europeans. The event attended by leading economist and social theorist was held at the Hague, The Netherlands in October of 2006 http://www.reurba.org/reports9/film-experts.html
Unfortunately I left my camcorder on the night before so to all I promised a youtube of the event I'm sorry, the battery was dead. But I will make your comments and concerns available via youtube very soon. The event was a success in my eyes. I stayed focused on improving our community's economy through investment and education. Bringing all of our residents into the process via proactive leadership was a theme of mine.
During the forum I introduced the idea of establishing an education/technology center in downtown Plainfield. It could be a consortium between Rutgers and other Universities willing to establish a remote site in Plainfield center. It could provide the first new high paying jobs this community has seen in a long time. Surrounded by 7 other cities it would bring dollars back into our economy. It would make Plainfield more competitive especially for those professionals that would like to teach in their community and spend more time closer to home. I think it would do alot to strengthen our community especially for families where stay-at-home Moms could become adjunct professors and still remain close to their children. It would allow our advanced high school students to take college level courses without needing a car. Keeping all the money they spend throughout the day within our community. As part of the concept we would include a business incubator that could be embraced by those who are not interested in higher education.
My vision also includes the use of MEP's Moblie Education Platforms. To bring education vans or platforms into the communities that need them most. It would increase parental involvement and could also be used for things like workshops that are so badly needed in some of our most economically challenged areas. This is an cost effective way of advancing education for our children. Excellence is something we must demand and expect. Education is a great place to start.
Yes, this could be Plainfield. a center of technology and education. Let's dare to be great.
--Tony Rucker--
The following is a link I provided in an earlier post. New concepts in urban development. I think there are a few things we can learn ,yes, even from the Europeans. The event attended by leading economist and social theorist was held at the Hague, The Netherlands in October of 2006 http://www.reurba.org/reports9/film-experts.html
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Sorry PToday. I'm Staying on message.
Dan, the residents of Plainfield want problems solved and potholes fixed. They want their leaves taken away and their streets litter free. They want a stronger local economy and effective leadership. But I guess your last post is part of the sizzle that campaign season is made up of.
I fugured that some of my policy positions would be challenged but no its the old ad hominem attack. First why you would try to impinge on my character I have no idea but for the record I have not removed any signs from anyplace. Nor have I instructed my followers to remove any Storch signs. Frankly I doubt Mr. Storch or the people that live in our neighborhood would think I would be capable of such dirty tactics.
For starters you sent me an e-mail stating that Cory Storch indicated his signs were being removed from homeowners yards. Maybe you should have e-mailed those homeowners first.
Tony -- I've been told that Cory signs are being taken down -- including one on the lawn of his longtime treasurer. This is a perennial problem, but I can assure you Cory is not taking any of your signs down. I hope you will check this out with your supporters and put the kibosh on it if any of them are getting carried away. Above-board campaigns don't need this kind of tactic.
Best, Dan
I read your e-mail and immediately called you about this allegation. I left a message asking you to call me back. That was Friday. As of today, which is Wednesday I haven't heard from you. No phone call. No e-mail. I guess no interest in hearing what I have to say on the matter.
Do you know that I was one of the first residents to sign Mr. Storch's petition required for candidacy? I believe in the integrity of the process, so taking down signs... that wouldn't be I.
As far as the Harvest Radio show... I hope all the candidates get a chance to make their views known including Mr. Storch. I think the show would help Plainfield pick the better candidate. Anyway no feelings hurt here, so if you have any questions call me at 908-472-9421.
Now to all Plainfield residents, I encourage you to take few minutes to review the previous posts of each candidates blogs or the various issues that concern our community. Mr. Storch is the incumbent so his record and the impact his tenure has had on the conditions in our community should also be considered. Solutions are the key. Anyone can restate the obvious. At the end of the day its about results and effective leadership. That's what people remember.
Look forward to seeing you this evening. I hope to prove I am worthy of your confidence and ultimately your vote.
Find out more at http://www.tonyrucker.com/
I fugured that some of my policy positions would be challenged but no its the old ad hominem attack. First why you would try to impinge on my character I have no idea but for the record I have not removed any signs from anyplace. Nor have I instructed my followers to remove any Storch signs. Frankly I doubt Mr. Storch or the people that live in our neighborhood would think I would be capable of such dirty tactics.
For starters you sent me an e-mail stating that Cory Storch indicated his signs were being removed from homeowners yards. Maybe you should have e-mailed those homeowners first.
Tony -- I've been told that Cory signs are being taken down -- including one on the lawn of his longtime treasurer. This is a perennial problem, but I can assure you Cory is not taking any of your signs down. I hope you will check this out with your supporters and put the kibosh on it if any of them are getting carried away. Above-board campaigns don't need this kind of tactic.
Best, Dan
I read your e-mail and immediately called you about this allegation. I left a message asking you to call me back. That was Friday. As of today, which is Wednesday I haven't heard from you. No phone call. No e-mail. I guess no interest in hearing what I have to say on the matter.
Do you know that I was one of the first residents to sign Mr. Storch's petition required for candidacy? I believe in the integrity of the process, so taking down signs... that wouldn't be I.
As far as the Harvest Radio show... I hope all the candidates get a chance to make their views known including Mr. Storch. I think the show would help Plainfield pick the better candidate. Anyway no feelings hurt here, so if you have any questions call me at 908-472-9421.
Now to all Plainfield residents, I encourage you to take few minutes to review the previous posts of each candidates blogs or the various issues that concern our community. Mr. Storch is the incumbent so his record and the impact his tenure has had on the conditions in our community should also be considered. Solutions are the key. Anyone can restate the obvious. At the end of the day its about results and effective leadership. That's what people remember.
Look forward to seeing you this evening. I hope to prove I am worthy of your confidence and ultimately your vote.
Find out more at http://www.tonyrucker.com/
Community Forum Tonight! May 30th
Wednesday. May 30. 7 PM. Ward 2 Council Candidate Forum: Rucker & Storch. Sponsor: Crescent Area Neighborhood Association. At the Plainfield Public Library, 8th Street and Park Avenue. All are invited.
I encourage all to attend. Be sure to tell your friends and neighbors. Come early and submit your questions and concerns about our city. I hope all your questions are answered. If not I will be available to be sure they get answered. I hope to show I have the character, experience and passion to change Plainfield for the better. Strong leadership in the 2nd ward can make a difference.
If you would like to give your opinion or find out more on where I stand on any issue give me a call at 908-472-9421.
Find out more at http://www.tonyrucker.com/
I encourage all to attend. Be sure to tell your friends and neighbors. Come early and submit your questions and concerns about our city. I hope all your questions are answered. If not I will be available to be sure they get answered. I hope to show I have the character, experience and passion to change Plainfield for the better. Strong leadership in the 2nd ward can make a difference.
If you would like to give your opinion or find out more on where I stand on any issue give me a call at 908-472-9421.
Find out more at http://www.tonyrucker.com/
A response to all your comments.
I will be responding to all comments left on my blogsite. Whether they be anonymous or not you deserve to be heard. Look for that after tomorrows debate. If you don't see your comment after a day or so you can always call and remind me to post it. That's with Caller ID blocked of course!
You can reach me at 908-472-9421.
Thanks for taking the time to comment.
You can reach me at 908-472-9421.
Thanks for taking the time to comment.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
The Best and Brightest we have to offer.
This country is at war in Iraq. With each day another life filled with the hopes of the previous generation is cut short. Yesterday morning I attended the Memorial Day Event held at the corner of Watchung & 7th Street in Plainfield. I watched grizzled-old veterans who defended our country pay tribute to those who had made the ultimate sacrifice. Memorial Day to some means the start of the Summer. For others a long 3-day weekend. But when you think that many of the young men and women that have died (and are dying) serving our country were some of the best and brightest America had to offer it should give the holiday real meaning to all of us.
Imagine your son or daughter filled with life's possibilities having that light dimmed forever. Many experts say that the situation in Iraq is at a crisis point. Many including the President call the situation unacceptable. As a former U.S Marine I appreciate and respect the sacrifice of those brave souls, many just barely out of high school.
But Plainfield has a crisis of its own when it comes to its children and young adults and it is just as unacceptable. Too many of our best and brightest can't see success in their future. Too many are growing up without a strong desire to learn. To many have a perception of a future that is fatalistic. This is a crisis. Our crisis. Who crys out for our children? Many have made it their life's work to educate and mold these children into success stories. But we must do more. This community must make improving the lives and opportunities for our children a top priority.
To this end I a proponent of a multi-generational strategy which leverages the talent and experience of our seniors and retired professionals. By creating a platform where mentoring and internships become a regular component of our children's educational experience. Giving children an upclose look at real world professional applications. This connection between children and their elders has been lost almost entirely. It would bring our community back to a place it used to be. When the elders knew the names of the children in their community and had the relationship to make a difference.
My desire as councilman of the 2nd ward would to be to work with others professionals especially the Board of Education to implement new strategies that make programs like this available to our young people. We as a community must appreciate the gravity of the situation for our children and young adults. They look to us for leadership. They look to us for answers to problems they can't solve. Understand this, everything from our property value to our local economy is affected by the the quality of the educational opportunities made available to our young people.
This is our crisis Plainfield. We must succeed. Failure is not an option. Many of us were blessed with the opportunity of a good education supported by caring adults. Let's make it our mission to make sure the children of this community get that same chance.
--Tony Rucker--
Imagine your son or daughter filled with life's possibilities having that light dimmed forever. Many experts say that the situation in Iraq is at a crisis point. Many including the President call the situation unacceptable. As a former U.S Marine I appreciate and respect the sacrifice of those brave souls, many just barely out of high school.
But Plainfield has a crisis of its own when it comes to its children and young adults and it is just as unacceptable. Too many of our best and brightest can't see success in their future. Too many are growing up without a strong desire to learn. To many have a perception of a future that is fatalistic. This is a crisis. Our crisis. Who crys out for our children? Many have made it their life's work to educate and mold these children into success stories. But we must do more. This community must make improving the lives and opportunities for our children a top priority.
To this end I a proponent of a multi-generational strategy which leverages the talent and experience of our seniors and retired professionals. By creating a platform where mentoring and internships become a regular component of our children's educational experience. Giving children an upclose look at real world professional applications. This connection between children and their elders has been lost almost entirely. It would bring our community back to a place it used to be. When the elders knew the names of the children in their community and had the relationship to make a difference.
My desire as councilman of the 2nd ward would to be to work with others professionals especially the Board of Education to implement new strategies that make programs like this available to our young people. We as a community must appreciate the gravity of the situation for our children and young adults. They look to us for leadership. They look to us for answers to problems they can't solve. Understand this, everything from our property value to our local economy is affected by the the quality of the educational opportunities made available to our young people.
This is our crisis Plainfield. We must succeed. Failure is not an option. Many of us were blessed with the opportunity of a good education supported by caring adults. Let's make it our mission to make sure the children of this community get that same chance.
--Tony Rucker--
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