To the editor: My name is Joe Smolinski. I am a town councilman serving the residents of West Milford for a one-year term. I have resided in West Milford for 20 years and I have always been involved in township organizations and committees. I would be honored to continue to serve the township for a full term of three years. To accomplish this, my name will appear on the ballot in the Republican Primary Election on Tuesday, June 6. (Line A Regular Republican Org.) And I need your vote. If successful in the primary, then my name will be on the ballot for the November election. During my appointment process prior to becoming a councilman, I stated as my commitment that as a councilman my issues and agendas are those of the townships, not mine personally. My vision must and will be broad and my actions will be logical, practical and responsible. West Milford’s needs are unique due to its demographics, environmental and water sensitivity, recreational needs and Highlands legislation affecting our local tax structure. Dealing with these issues will take knowledge, determination and the ability and willingness to work closely with various Township Departments and the entire township council. By working together we can keep West Milford a clean, fun and affordable place to reside and retire. I feel that in the short time that I have been a member of the council, I have demonstrated to the residents my ability and determination to make our town a better place. I immediately went to work tackling one of our biggest problem and concerns here in West Milford, Taxes. I moved on the Water Tax Relief petition that will hopefully provide West Milford with additional property tax relief that we unquestionably deserve. Thanks to many individuals who have completed neighborhood petition drives the petition is now ready to be presented to Governor Corzine. We are now working on the township budget. Fiscal awareness and responsibility is vital when dealing with this yearly issue. Taxes, cost of services balanced against loss of services, quality of life and environmental concerns are some of the issues that we face. I continue my promise to pursue the best options that will benefit all the residents of West Milford regardless the issue. As I stated numerous times publicly, I welcome the opportunity to meet or discuss any issue of concern that a resident may have. I may not have all the answers but I do have the ambition and energy to find a solution. Please feel free to contact me. Smolinski@westmilford.org or 973-728-2710 Please vote on June 6. The polls are open 6a.m. to 8 p.m. Your vote counts. Joseph Smolinski West Milford Councilman