As candidates for local office, my running mates, Mike Ammirato, Jim Scarpato and Carmen Villani, and I would like to weigh-in on the current situation of Councils decision on the donation of sick-days among Town employees.We support a program to allow employees to donate sick-days to fellow employees yet we understand the reservations that the Mayor and Council raised.Therefore, the ordinance must prevent misuse, ensure financial equivalence, properly define personal time versus sick time and reflect the will of all town employees.Any ordinance must be based on sound policy rather than emotions on either side.
More importantly, we would like to comment on the tumult that has resulted from the Councils decision.We encourage an actively engaged citizenry and a deliberative governing body.Intelligent debate in all forums is vital to democracy.But both sides must check our emotions and allow the process to work.We now are on the verge of this situation devolving from a civil disagreement on policy into a fight for the sake of a fight with vendettas flaring on all sides.This situation has happened too many times to count here in Hammonton.In the end, the only loser is the Towns reputation.
And let us also not forget that in the center of this debate exist a police officer and his family.And they are better served by dispassionate discussion and sincere concern rather than the desire for retribution disguised as either moral outrage or decisive leadership.From that perspective, the ancient poet, Virgil, speaks to us now more than ever with his words, There are tears in human events and mortality touches the mind.
In conclusion, I renew the call that I made in my announcement for the new politics.We must move forward with fruitful dialogue where disagreement leads to positive change rather than the personal destruction of our neighbors.Despite the decisions and arguments of the past several days, my running mates still think that this new politics is possible.We must only seize the opportunity.
Joseph Ingemi Democratic Nominee for Mayor
-- Edited by Admin on Sunday 10th of May 2009 06:13:10 PM
Can someone help me with the tumult in my stomach? The spicy chili, pepperoni pizza and lima beans has caused a great tumult in my tummy. I have been in the men's room all afternoon.
