Thanks to the self-described "puppet master", Carmen Scangarello, it appears the already split local Republican party is once again divided and now supporting only one of their candidates for Town Council this year. Scangarello, Smolinski and crew have allegedly banished Mike Hensley because he is friendly with the "wrong" Republicans and refused an oath of loyalty, while Vivienne Erk is willing to take orders and obey. If their party is divided by infighting, how will that manifest itself on the dais with members of an opposition party?
Hopefully the voters of West Milford recognize that getting along with others to work together is an important prerequisite for representing us on town council. This is why the Scangarello and Smolinski fiefdom was overwhelmingly rejected last year.
Local politics should not be adversarial or divisive. Aren't we all supposed to be in it together to benefit West Milford? While Erk's campaign literature is littered with their favorite buzzword "fighting," last year's election demonstrated the voters are fed up with such political rhetoric and want mature and collaborative representation, not bullying. Political affiliations and political "bosses" should not be part of the equation. Please make sure you consider voting for the candidates that have the capacity and wherewithal to make their own decisions and most importantly, the candidates that can work well with others to get things done.
Please take the time to familiarize yourself with John Richards and Dave Ofshinsky (they have a Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/JohnAndDaveForCouncil2012). Both are exceptional men of character who possess the experience, understanding and vision to make responsible decisions for the present and future benefit of you, the voters - not themselves, their party, or a desperate puppet master.
In the past, voters have recognized and demonstrated party affiliation is meaningless in local elections - we need to vote for people of character and integrity, not parties. Please join me in voting for John Richards and Dave Ofshinsky on Nov. 6.
Chris Garcia
Hewitt