To the Editor:
Here we are, at the beginning of a new year: A new mayor, full slate of council members, and a new freeholder. Bayonne, the city that most people have very fond memories of, is on a cusp. I foresee 2015 as the year of development and change across many levels. There will be the start of much more development all over Bayonne. The developments will be all over town from First Street, 22nd street, the MOT and even the old Hi-Hat site. I actually have not heard anything yet about Broadway but I am sure it is on the burner.
The question we all must ask and get answers to is, “How much?” How much revenue is our city receiving up front and in the future from the developers? Yes, we have all read that two of the three lawsuits regarding the base are almost settled and that’s great but in reality, what is the true cost to the taxpayers of Bayonne? With the predicted rise in families and population, can the city budget sustain giving away any more 30-year tax abatements? Can our schools absorb the new children? Will the city need a new school or even a new satellite police station?
Along with the revenue issue, one should also think about the parking issues surrounding the new developments, especially around our transportation hubs. Don’t get me wrong. I am all for development in our town but I am also concerned about parking issues which will indeed affect longtime homeowners. The latest development on 22nd Street will only have 95 parking spots for 190 apartments. That means it is possible that the area will have to absorb 95 new cars. If I was a resident in that area, I would be a bit concerned.
We have also heard this week about our board of education and it wasn’t any good news either. We heard of accusations of holding back funds, possible shady contracts, etc. If this proves to be true, then the majority of the board should resign, along with the business administrator and superintendent. Bayonne voted for a new direction in 2014 and the board of education is no different. Our city, our children deserve a new direction from a new leader and a new board of education that will be careful about our tax dollars and be proactive for the future. On a side note, it’s ironic to see that Dr. Wanko has taken Piscataway High School to the ranking of 140 from 242 out of 316. Unfortunately, Bayonne has not gone in the same direction.
Last, this past week, we saw a horrible fire that displaced many people in the heart of winter. It was very nice and humbling to see the community come together for these people and help them in any way possible. If anyone can drop off any types of donations, they may do so at the Bayonne Initiative at 174 Broadway or even at city hall. Let’s show these residents we are here for them.
JOHN MILAN SEBIK