Dear Editor:
As a resident of Weehawken, I am compelled to write this letter in response to Planning Board member Richard Barsa’s letter to the editor on May 6.
He entitled his comments “Just state the facts.” He stated that “the Weehawken Planning Board members were the only people who have sat through all the meetings pertaining to waterfront development.” This is untrue.
True Fact No. 1. Many citizens, including myself attended all of the hearing testimony pertaining to waterfront development. Note: Several Planning Board members were observed dozing and sleeping during the testimony on several occasions.
True Fact No. 2. Mr. Barsa stated that “distortion and fear tactics were used to solicit funds for FWW activities.” The truth is that FWW has received hundreds of donations from hundreds of citizens of Weehawken who are concerned about the future of the city. These funds were used to conduct a three-year long educational and factual information program. Funds were also used to challenge, in a court of law, the Planning Board’s dubious actions, illegal procedures, and the fact that some Planning Board members were unduly constituted. Many citizens have had input into development of a “Community Plan” that is far superior to the developer’s plan that was virtually rubber stamped by the Weehawken Planning Board.
True Fact No. 3. Mr. Barsa said that “FWW was a political organization.” Nothing could be further from the truth. Our by-laws and tax status prohibits FWW from mounting political candidates or taking part in political activities. Prove your facts Mr. Barsa.
True Fact No. 4. Mr. Barsa further stated that “FWW will deny Weehawken the wonderful chance to insure Weehawken’s future, including an 11 acre park.” The 11 acre park the Planning Board approved is to be built on a highly contaminated Brownfield area with tunnel exhaust blowing in your face. Is this the kind of future you want for Weehawken, Mr. Barsa? The Friends of the Weehawken Waterfront propose a park on land already owned by the city. The area is to be cleaned up from contamination before it is designed and built.
The FWW is not denying anyone anything.
Dana Cox, Treasurer
Friends of the Weehawken Waterfront