Dear Editor:
This is an open letter to Joe V. Covello, President of the Mile Square Taxpayers Association, for singling me out and allowing me an opportunity to explain my position on his organization. Last week Mr. Covello wrote that his organization represents all Hoboken taxpayers. Well that’s a pretty bold statement since there are tens of thousands of taxpayers in Hoboken.
Well Mr. Covello I am a taxpayer, and you do not represent me. I don’t believe that your organization’s vision of this city represents a majority of the taxpayers either. That is exactly why we have elected a mayor and city council. When you Mr. Covello are elected to office then you can say you represent the taxpayers. Wasn’t your organization founded by a handful of landlords who want to shape city policy? To say that you represent all Hoboken taxpayers amplifies the arrogance towards the democratic process and self-importance of your organization.
I don’t blame the landlords of this city for organizing to protect their own interests. They have every right to do so. I object to the fact that the Mayor has allowed your group into his office to help design policy.
I have no hostility towards the taxpayers of Hoboken, just special interest groups that claim to represent all of them.
Sincerely,
John Branciforte