Bob Martin Calls on Governor to Fully Explain DCA Funding Process

Ewing (September 14, 2007) -- Bob Martin, State Senate candidate in the 15th district, today called on Governor Jon Corzine to explain the process by which state Department of Community Affairs (DCA) distributes funds to distresses cities and towns. Martin’s request stems from continuing discussion around emergency funding for Ewing Township. Ewing faces an $8 million budget shortfall, due to increased expenses and lost revenues. The increased funding will in part provide resources for five additional police officers at a time when gang violence is on the rise. The $4 million asked for by Ewing Mayor Jack Ball, will help offset about half of the 43 cent projected property tax increase.

Based on initial news reports, the DCA said that there are no funds available and admitted there is no formal application process

"Governor Corzine needs to explain how the $153 million in the budget for distressed cities is prioritized and distributed. I find it hard to believe that the governor will distribute $153 million without a formal process in place, unless he is distributing funds based on politics” Martin stated.

News reports stated that one of the main reasons Ewing did not receive its emergency funding was because they applied after the June 30th deadline. With no formal process in place, this appears to be an invalid excuse by the state. “I ask Governor Corzine, how many of the other towns and cities had their request submitted by June 30th? Furthermore, how many of these towns still received funding despite missing the supposed cut-off date?”

"Governor Corzine needs to provide the same level of funding Ewing has received in the past to help the taxpayers of this town. He needs cut through what appears to be partisan politics and assist a town that is working very hard to fix its financial situation,” Martin stated.

The residents of Ewing deserve to have their $4 million request addressed.” Martin said. “This funding is of critical importance for Ewing, as it will provide more law enforcement in a town that is at the crossroads of rising gang violence.”

In 2006, under Democratic leadership, Ewing received $4.5 million in municipal aid. In 2007, Republican Mayor Jack Ball is experiencing resistance in his request.

In addition, Martin stated, “Unfortunately it appears that Ewing taxpayers are being cut-off from the state aid they are entitled to because of a change in mayor. A year after receiving $4.5 million, it is questionable that there is no money for Ewing this year. We need a formal process and criteria for deciding who and how much cities and towns are eligible for in state aid. Decisions on funding must be made on real need, not on partisan politics.”