The Alternative Press

SCOTCH PLAINS - On Tuesday , January 3^rd, Mayor Nancy Malool spoke at the  reorganization meeting for Scotch Plains.  She looked back at how the concept of full consolidation of Scotch Plains and Fanwood had met with major resistance over the years, and how in the Fall of 2008 a compromise was reached to actively look at shared services, one department at a time.

“Now more than three years later, nothing has really happened. Yes, we have studied everything to death, but how have our taxpayers been impacted? Have they saved money? Has their quality of life been enhanced? Has efficiency of services improved? The answer to all these questions is undoubtedly, no,” said Mayor Malool.

“I urge this governing body and our colleagues in Fanwood to put aside their political and personal interests and move forward,” concluded Mayor Malool.

The Mayor went on to reiterate that she did not regret the decision to declare Shackamaxon an area in need of rehabilitation. “I spent most of last year trying to explain all of the intricacies of the process, the details and thinking behind a decision, but I still think many people don’t understand it, or don’t want to try.”

“If we hadn’t acted, I can practically guarantee there would be 100 homes there within a year. Despite what some people say, the negative impact on the town would far exceed any positive. When a developer finally showed interest, they would only buy the property if they could add condos to the (golf) course. Because of our declaration, we were able to put conditions on the builder. We were able to control the process, to influence the future. Even if I could change history, this decision, which I consider to be one of the most important during my time here, one where I diverted a potential disaster, is one that I wouldn’t touch,” said Malool

The Mayor went on to give credit to residents and businesses for supporting philanthropy in the town, with the building of the 9/11 Memorial, the subsequent Mayor’s Ball and Scotch Plains Businesses supporting the special night for Veterans on Valentines’ Day, while looking forward to the Scotch Plains Wellness Challenge.

The Mayor outlined that 2011 had been a strange year, with an earthquake, hurricane, flooding, and a Halloween snowstorm.  “We have been through difficult economic times, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel,” the Mayor concluded.

She went on to express her thanks to the township manager, department heads, and every one of the town employees for their hard work and dedication throughout the past year.

“Thank you to my colleagues on the council for their continued commitment, passion and effort. Throughout all of the decisions we’ve made, the hundreds of votes I’ve taken, all of the things I would change and those I wouldn’t, one thing has remained constant: the people of Scotch Plains are the heart and soul of this community and everything that we’ve done or will do, is with them in mind. I’m honored to lead you into 2012. I wish all of our residents a happy and healthy New Year. Thank you."