Dear Editor:
Everyone in Jersey City knows that a JCIA/DPW merger has long been discussed and is instrumental to the future of Jersey City. I believe Steven Fulop when he says that the merger presents a unique opportunity to save tax payers millions upon millions of dollars. Millions of dollars that count. I believe Fulop’s pledge to not support any merger unless it truly captures the best aspects of both the JCIA and DPW into one cohesive organization.
I understand there are people concerned about their jobs and livelihood. Trust me, I know and understand. I have friends that work at both places but must say that some have Steve all wrong. Fulop’s point is that cost savings to the tax payer should not fall on the backs of the rank and file employees of either organization. The savings are not based on reduction of crucial services our city needs.
Steve Fulop’s matter of fact is that cost savings will give Jersey City an opportunity to “expand” programs like the ever so important Second Chance Program. It’s important not to let others twist the truth here with intention on making Steve the scapegoat. Whoever is a stake holder should call him up. He’ll talk to anyone.
From carefully listening to Fulop, what I understand is that the savings will come from management reduction with the elimination of redundant lawyers, consultants, accountants and insurance.
The goal set forth by the Councilman, mayoral hopeful and front runner is to see less desks and more field work. This is win win.
Steven Fulop points out that for every estimated senior management cut, there can be three to four labor jobs saved. He clearly makes it a goal to only support cuts at the top first and not the employees at the lower level. That’s difficult for a planted occupy Wall Street protester to argue with even with a two part letter. This is also one of the many differences between Fulop and Healy. Healy is the real butcher who is full of bologna as he chopped off the heads of 300 plus city employees at the lower level, while he kept on all the lap dogs at the upper level. Those making big money. You know this 1 percent. Not only did they keep their jobs but they received lucrative raises while others suffered and took longevity bonuses which cost tax payers, yes, more money out of pocket.
People need to get it straight. Healy is the worst Mayor Jersey City has seen since H. Otto Wittpenn. Steven Fulop is the next Mayor to walk through the City Hall doors in spring 2013. For the first time, it appears that the fat cats will get the axe. That is what a real reformer and activist works so hard for.
James Francis Waddleton
Lifelong Resident