MAYOR & TOWNSHIP COMMITTEE LETTER

Dear Residents:

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the citizens of the Township of Hazlet for their trust and support.  As Mayor my immediate goal is to restore dignity, integrity and a sense of ethics to Hazlet Township.  I look forward to working together with all the members of the Township Committee in accomplishing these goals.

Thanks to the approval of the Open Space Tax Referendum we are committed this year to embark on acquiring additional open space parcels, specifically the Waackaack Creek Meadowlands.  We will be seeking out influential people in government such as Congressman Pallone, Freeholder Barbara McMorrow, and Governor Corzines staff  who can assist us with  grant opportunities for this parcel and future acquisitions.

Another goal for 2007 is to improve the conditions of our Township parks and numerous recreational facilities.  In particular, the Township Roller Hockey Rink located in Veterans Memorial Park will be resurfaced and available for Clinics and Hockey League play.  Improvements such as spectator benches and lighting are also in the planning stage.  New maintenance-free fencing throughout our township parks will be installed in the Spring and Summer of 2007. This years Capital Budget will also provide for improvements to Leocadia Park with the installation of new child-friendly playground equipment and renovation of the existing tennis courts.

I am also pleased to report that due to the efforts of the Swim Club Sub-Committee volunteers and the management staff of the Hazlet Swim & Tennis Club, we anticipate the 2007 Swim Club Season to be a successful one!  Membership requests are coming in from neighboring townships, and as far away as Staten Island, New York.  The Hazlet Swim & Tennis Club is a jewel tucked away in Veterans Memorial Park, WHERE FAMILY AND COMMUNITY COME TOGETHER, please join us!

As responsible members of your Hazlet Township Committee we intend this year to explore additional Shared Services Agreements.  We have had serious conversations with neighboring towns relative to shared services that would provide much needed relief for our taxpayers.

As always we owe a debt of gratitude to the many volunteers who make Hazlet Township unique.  A community populated by people who are committed to helping each other.  Plans are underway, in the newly constructed Municipal Building located in Veterans Memorial Park to permanently house the volunteers who comprise the Townships Office of Emergency Management.  The Municipal Building equipped with a back-up generator will provide a central location to dispense emergency services to our citizens in the event of a disaster.

In conclusion, as members of your Township Committee we pledge to provide you with an open government.  As your elected officials we will be accountable to you for our actions.

Sincerely,

James C. DiNardo
Mayor