GUSCIORA CALLS FOR CONSOLIDATION IN LIGHT OF CORRUPTION CHARGES

(TRENTON) - Assemblyman Reed Gusciora (D-Princeton) responded to the recent allegations of corruption among notable New Jersey public officials.  "These arrests make it clear that New Jersey is in dire need for consolidating local governments," said Gusciora.

"New Jersey has one of the highest rates of corruption and when you look at the way our state is configured, we also have some of the most expansive levels of governments," said Gusciora.  The Assemblyman is concerned that the duplication of government services directly relates to the multiple levels of corruption that occur throughout the state.

"Consolidation of government is a necessary tool in fighting corruption," continued Gusciora.  "Too much mischief is caused by having multiple jurisdiction planning boards, zoning boards, municipal engineers, attorneys, and the like.  Not only is it expensive for taxpayers, but invariably due to the levels of duplication in government services, it creates a breeding ground for corruption."

Gusciora has proposed two different measures that he believes will bring about much needed change.  Both bills focus on consolidating New Jersey municipalities. 

"We have more municipalities than the state of North Carolina and accordingly have the highest property taxes in the nation."

Assembly Bill 4076 and 4077 both deal with the consolidation of multiple municipalities into one governing body, as in the shore towns and "doughnut-hole" municipalities.  These measures reduce the number of New Jersey's towns and in turn will lower property taxes.

"But most importantly, such a reduction in duplication of government services will result in less corruption," said Gusciora.  "I hope the legislature has a carpe diem moment and, once and for all, tackle this important issue."

"These arrests are a wake-up call," concluded Gusciora.  "New Jersey needs to start working for the taxpayers of this state, not the corrupt."

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