Sunday, August 30, 2009

Upcoming Topics on the School Board

Back in January, I had been highly critical of the board leadership for not holding itself accountable for district performance. The board leadership’s position, at that time, was board members should only be held accountable for their voting record. The perspective was entirely passive; board members should not be expected to take any initiative but merely consider those items and information the administration chooses to present. Though I believe the board, as a whole, is still too passive for my own liking, I am pleased the board is moving forward on a number of areas of concern. Below are some of the topics that will be under discussion.

Nepotism Policy
Last year, the state mandated that all school districts update their nepotism policies to conform to New Jersey’s ethics rules. (Yes, New Jersey does have ethics rules.) The new nepotism policies unintentionally excluded board members’ close families from pursuing student work-study programs. Upon realizing its mistake, the state allowed all districts to include a work-study exception in their nepotism policies. The question before the board is whether a board member’s close family should be allowed to pursue a work-study position.

Proponents of the change argue that no qualified student should be excluded from any opportunity because of a close relative’s service, providing the district has implemented safeguards against improper influence in the selection process. Last year, following some board members’ concerns that existing safeguards weren’t sufficient, Mr. Glastein revised the selection process to include the following:

  • All open positions are included in the daily home room announcements from the time of posting to the deadline
  • All candidates are reviewed by a “council’ of senior administrators, including principals, directors, Mr. Glastein, and other staff who would be working with the student appointments
  • The “council” numbers around a dozen and jointly interviews the candidates
I am opposed to any exception. The nepotism policy only forbids financial compensation. All students are allowed to apply for any position, whether star of the school play, captain of the football team, or a work-study position, so long as he doesn’t get paid. So, the only issue is whether the district should be offering a “paid position” to a board member’s child. Some may argue that we’re only discussing a few thousand dollars a year for a child. I argue that it’s a few thousand dollars a year for a board member’s child.

If a board member’s child is appointed to a paid position, many in the public will reasonably suspect undue influence and that another child lost his opportunity because his parent isn’t on the board. Despite the safeguards, everybody involved in the selection process is influenced by the school board. Some are seeking tenure. All have their salaries and budgets approved by the board.

Nor do I believe this has anything to do with a child’s educational opportunities. There are literally hundreds of educational opportunities within the school district, not to mention outside the school district. Furthermore, if someone truly wants the school office experience, he can simply waive the salary.

This vote is purely about giving a paid position to a board member’s family. At the last board meeting, Mr. Glastein, a 30+ year veteran of the school district, could not recall a single instance when a board member’s child was denied a paid position. That alone should be sufficient to give us all pause.

Curriculum
Curriculums reflects community priorities, state mandates, and school board members’ personal viewpoints. The largest philosophical divide within the board is process vs. output. Regarding curriculums, what is the balance between offering exposure and opportunities and ensuring our students graduate with valued skills?

Our district places a high value on exposing our students to different studies and then offering them the opportunity to later pursue one area of study. The question before us is should the district devise curriculums that emphasize mastery in one area of the arts and one area of foreign languages or maintain its current emphasis on exposure to several disciplines.

I believe that our students will ultimately benefit far more from mastering a few things than attempting to be a jack of all trades.

Between high school and college, I studied four foreign languages for at least two years each. Today, I am only proficient in one foreign language (Hebrew) and can’t even read the one I studied in college (Arabic). Using 20/20 hindsight, I probably would have been better off mastering one language and becoming highly proficient in a second rather than studying four.

The same can be said for music. As a youngster, I studied piano, guitar, and the recorder. Today, I can barely whistle.

One third of our college seniors will be taking remedial English for failing to score 50% on the state HSPA exam. Naturally, English comes first. But if our students are struggling with English, despite it being, for most, their native language and studying it since kindergarten, why do we think a little French, a little Spanish, and a little Mandarin will help much?

I’d prefer students become proficient in one foreign language and one artistic discipline than having tasted several morsels in an educational smorgasbord.

Taxes
As the old saying goes, the only two things for certain are death and taxes. The question before us is what is the maximum acceptable tax rate? Here we have three schools of thought.
  • School taxes should be determined by district needs
  • School taxes should be limited to a modest growth rate
  • School taxes should be limited to a percentage of household income
Everyone agrees a second question can always be added to the budget should the district require additional revenue. However, as policy, what should be the district’s goal?

According to the first school of thought, setting arbitrary limits runs counter to our societal responsibility of training and educating our children for the future.

The second school says it’s reasonable, even necessary, to place modest constraints on spending growth to ensure fiscal prudence.

The third school argues we can only afford so much. I belong to the third school.

In 1999, Aberdeen’s median household income was $68,125. The school tax levy at the time was $30.15 million. That averaged to a little under $3,000 per household, or about 4% of average income.

10 years later, even excluding the effects of the recession, average household income is almost certainly less than $80,000. This year’s school tax levy is $43.80 million, or about $4,000 per household.

Considering the proportion of households to students is greater than 2.5 to 1, I think it is eminently reasonable to push the tax burden back down to 4% of household income and, at the very least, to cap it at 5%.

This would be the equivalent of charging each household over 10% of income per public student in the home.

As for my past proposals, there’s been some development there as well. Board President Kenny has instructed the board secretary to begin tagging all board votes with at least one nay vote as a “Split Vote” so that all board votes entailing any disagreement will be easily searchable. That record will hopefully make board members more accountable to their constituents, my first goal’s objective.

Regarding goals to improve the likelihood of students completing programs of higher education, the board has hosted two half-hour discussions. At the last board meeting, I presented an analysis that, among Matawan-Aberdeen’s 2009 graduates enrolling in college, 70% of them will be attending “below-average” schools (as defined by U.S. News and World Report). As for the entire class of 2009, only 36% are expected to complete any program, whether a certificate, 2-year degree, or 4-year degree. Among those attending Brookdale Community College, only 30% are expected to either complete a program or transfer to another school.

Like the board minutes, I’m hoping to reach a compromise on my second goal. That would be two down and one to go. Taxes should be discussed when Board Member O’Connel presents financial goals for consideration.

More discussions will be forthcoming as we tackle other “big picture” issues and I commend Board President Kenny for promoting the open dialogue and debate. It’s good to see board members doing more than just casting votes. >>> Read more!

132 comments:

Anonymous said...

Silly idea to tag the "split votes". It encourages everyone to vote the majority. Oh. . . I get it, that your real goal.

Anonymous said...

Well I do not always agree with you but:

1. I thought you had some good ideas for discussion a few weeks back and your buddies would not even give you a second for a discussion. So I commend your dilligence.

2. I am sorry. I could give a flying hoot about a kid making 7 bucks an hour. The questionable practice was giving a BOE member wife a permanent job with full benefits and pension that the BOE member will share for decades. This is not an anti Donaghue rant. Just a deep concern about the future now that this precedent has been set. WHAT IS YOUR OPINION?? Someone in the last post raised the same concern and you did not answer. Talk about a conflict of interest?? Budget, contract, and decision making can all be swayed by a BOE member having a spouse employed.

3. I fully agree that learning Basics is more important that learning mandarin or French. Heck, if a student lacks in English scoring, they should be made to take Latin which 9/10 people will tell you enhances English basics.

4. I am sorry. I do not agree with your substandard school argument. This town is a workers town with several different classes of people. The choice of college at least HALF or more of the time has to do with PERSONAL FINANCE. Other students, my cousin and their friends included, do not have the motivation to go to a "good" school as you would have it labeled. We do not live in Colts Neck or Franklin Lakes where mommy and daddy were Ivy League and want nothing less for their kids. I applaud your wantingness for our students to go to fine colleges but I think you are demeaning the kids who do choose a college by mostly your standards or a magazine's who are in bed, so to speak, with expensive institutions.

Anonymous said...

70%, 36%,30% As always the way you present data is misleading. Classic JW data. Why don't you perform real exit surveys from real matawan graduates at 1 month, 1 year and 5 years out to get real MATAWAN data. What are you doing about that everyday math program? Let's make some changes in the classroom. The nepotism policy or tagging voting records has little to do with the education of my child.

Aberdeener said...

I voted against Mrs. Donaghue's appointment, mentioned it in my last post, and spoke against it during the Committee of the Whole meeting. In my opinion, although the the appointment is perfectly legal, it violates the spirit of the policy.

Better schools are not necessarily more expensive. Over one third of the graduating class goes to Brookdale. How many of them, or their parents, know that Brookdale only has a 30% success rate? Why not steer students toward colleges that have higher success rates?

Exit surveys are notoriously unreliable when predicting outcomes for the simple reason that they're not random samples. My data and analysis was presented to the board and the administration, and none of them questioned the results.

Anonymous said...

Brookdale may have a 30% success rate but whos fault is that? The student is going to do the work or not, and it really does not matter which institution they are going to. If they are not going to make it I would rather find out for $3600 rather than $22000. I would also like to know if that 30%rate is broken down by towns.

Anonymous said...

I am sorry Mr. Warren, you do not know this town as well as those who have lived here longer than yourself. MOney is a direct correlation with where many of our kids go.

Also, how can you knock an institution like Brookedale that serves the entire county. Full time students, part time students, old and young, right out of HS or those returning later in life. That % you gave COVERS all of them.

Why not make up a survey to give to our kids next year and ask them why they chose the college they before you make assumptions. And for the record, Brookedale is not the horror you make it out to be. It is actually one of the better community colleges in the state.

NEEDELECTIONINFONOW said...

I hope the Aberdeener is going to be informative about the upcoming campaign. The election is two months away and other then the R's walking a little bit all we hear from the D's is KAUFFSILENCE. Make us proud Aberdeener and give us some insight. I would love for you to put out there how much the F.O.K. (friends of Kauff) have stolen from the taxpayers. Also some voting records on Lauro and Tagliareni as well as Montone would be good. How about the truth on the very questionable residency of Mr. Cannon. You can always get back to school board stuff that will still bethere after the election. Think about it. Thanks.

Aberdeener said...

The 30% success rate refers to "first-time, full-time freshmen", not all students as was previously suggested.

Students go to Brookdale because it's cheap, convenient, has open enrollment, and is reputable in the community.

I've taken a course at Brookdale and was pleased with the campus and instructor. However, as a parent, I'd be very concerned about sending my child to a school where over two-thirds of students drop out.

The statistics are not broken down by student demographics.

My only request is that students and parents be fully informed of graduation and success rates at the colleges they're considering. Does anybody object to that?

Aberdeener said...

Regarding the election, I do not plan to have much coverage since it could interfere with the relationship between the school district and the township.

Though I'm not taking positions with any individual candidacies, I believe continued single-party rule would be detrimental for the township.

However, that does not mean I will stop covering town doings. Though my time and energy is focused on the school district, I will continue to report occasionally on the town council.

This week, the budget will be finally approved and I'm anxious to see what the council has crafted.

Anonymous said...

Joey, Your conclusions about Brookdale are an example of how you come to conclusions based on partial statistics without considering all factors that may effect a decision. On average, the average graduation rate for all 4-year colleges is 53%. So taking into account that many students starting at Brookdale may opt for work that does not need a degree (by choice or by economic necessity) the 30% graduation rate may not be surprising. In fact this may represent many students who would not otherwise pursue a degree.

While college is a given for my children, as it was for me, it isn't for many families. Our school district includes people with a variety of goals that I hope you will spend some time learning about.

The following is an informative article that many might find interesting.


The Important Number That Families Ignore June 22, 2009
Ian Welham on the future of college financial aid

Ian Welham on college graduation rates.

The other night I was at a barbeque and took an informal poll. I asked all the adults what they thought the average graduation rate was for four-year colleges. The guesses were all over the map, but the average was around 75 – 80 percent.

So they were all quite surprised when I told them the actual number is 53%.

According to a report issued by the American Enterprise Institute, four-year colleges graduated an average of just 53% of entering students within six years. This is based on data reported by over 1,300 colleges and universities.

While it’s not surprising to see colleges such as Harvard , Notre Dame and Stanford with graduation rates of 95% or greater, it is shocking how common 40% and 50% graduation rates are. In New Jersey, Princeton University is tops at 95%. The state average for New Jersey colleges and universities is 57.3%. Some examples:

* College of New Jersey (83%)
* Drew University (71%)
* Farleigh Dickinson (51%)
* Kean University (42%)
* Monmouth University (60%)
* Montclair State (61%)
* Princeton (95%)
* Ramapo College (65%)
* Rider University (58%)
* Rowan University (64%)
* Rutgers (73%)
* Seton Hall University (57%)
* Stevens Tech (76%)
* William Patterson Univ. (47%)

Are some of these numbers surprising to you? They were to me. A couple things stood out for me when looking at the numbers. One is the wide discrepancy among schools with comparable admissions standards. For example,

Providence College graduated 87% of its incoming freshmen, while Stony Brook graduated only 59%. James Madison achieved a 81% graduation rate while the University of Louisville was barely half that, at 41%.

As a parent, don’t you want to know these numbers? Even at top schools, it’s not uncommon for 15% - 20% of freshmen to drop out. This can lead to awkward conversations for parents whose family car is covered with bumper stickers from the “name” college when junior doesn’t make it to sophomore year.

Aberdeener said...

Anon,

One small correction.

The article incorrectly reports the national graduation rate for a 4-year program. It's 57%, as reported by the U.S. DOE.

As you note, most parents overestimate their child's school's graduation rate. Therefore, I feel guidance counselors should be providing that information.

As for college not being for everybody, I agree. So what should be our goal as a district? Surely, far more than a third.

Anonymous said...

Perhaps the goal should be to prepare our children to compete in the world to the best of their abilities. I avoid the assumption that my values are appropriate for others.

For instance, if one child's desire and ability is to be, let's say a police officer, and another a brain surgeon, shouldn't we prepare both to perform at the top of their ability while feeding their curiousity and passion for new ideas?

It's true that fewer jobs than in the past can be gotten without a four-year degree (at least); however, while we should prepare everyone to be able to compete for those jobs, I don't buy into the class-based thinking that graduation from college equals success. I know too many business owners and successful people who contribute to this community who never earned a college degree.

In the 1960s college admissions proliferated as the likes of Cheney and Biden (being non-partisan - those were the times) enrolled and stayed enrolled to avoid a draft. That movement grew to the expectation that judgment that everyone should go to college.

I don't disagree with the premise that those that pursue higher education will statistically be more successful in the long-term; but ultimately this is a choice that each family should have the ability to make.

Also, I simply do not buy that graduation rate in a college is a valid measurement of success. By that standard would the Navy Seal training program be a failure because of its low completion rate?

There are many reasons why a person enrolls in a community college. To name a few: mediocre high school performance, uncertainty about attending college, financial reasons, vocational training, matriculation while working full-time, something to do without having a goal ...

One of the great things about Aberdeen and Matawan is the diversity in the two towns. We are not a homogeneous district like Rumson or Holmdel. I agree with you that we should have high standards, but we must recognize that those standards are not the only determining factors of where our children will end up.

Anonymous said...

By the way - 53% is the national college graduation rate. 57.3% is the NJ college graduation rate, as per the article I included.

Also, at the article alludes, colleges that have very selective admissions standards have the highest graduation rates (i.e. Princeton 95%, Rutgers 73%, Stevens 76%, College of NJ 83%). Those with easier entry have lower graduation rates (Kean 42%,Farliegh Dickenson 51%, William Patterson 47%). This would suggest that the "best" colleges are enrolling the students with the best chance of completing their education, not that those colleges with lower graduation rates are falling down on the job.

I'm just encouraging you to look at the statistics, which you seem to like, from a different perspective.

And to the Anon that suggested that exposure to Mandarin is a waste: Chinese financing is paying this country's debt and just about every school supply I bought last week was made be someone who speaks Mandarin.

Anonymous said...

Aberdeener,
Applying your logic and your words with a few substitutions:
If a board members wife is appointed to a paid position, many in the public will reasonably suspect undo influence and that another lost her opportunity because her husband is on the board. Despite the safeguards, everybody involved in the selection process is influenced by the school board. Some are seeking tenure. All have their salaries and budgets approved by the board. Why weren't you more forceful in your beliefs in this instance and voice your objections publicly. At the very least you should have asked for his resignation. It seems at times you are all bark and no bite and are allowing the others to push you around.

Anonymous said...

Hey Joey, I was in town hall and their was talk about another councilman resigning. Did you hear anything and do you know who?

Aberdeener said...

Don't want to nitpick, but here's the quote from the U.S. DOE -

Among the 1,301 institutions included in this study, the enrollment weighted average 6-year
graduation rate in 2004 was 57 percent.

wHO IS RESIGNING ON COUNCIL? said...

Rumors around town hall are most often just that RUMORS. Just like Kauff shaking down a developer in the town hall parking lot. Wait, I forgot that did in fact occur. My bad as people say.

Anyway who heard such a thing at town hall is probably just BS. After all I did not read anything about any massage parlor busts lately including any local politicians. Then again the seven sitting council people have many skeletons in their closets. I mean just on recent secret hush, hush developmental meetings with Captain Normy at the helm could lead one or more council people, who may have a shred of moral turpitude left, to do the right thing and resign before the authorities drop by for an early morning visit. I could only hope. Such a possible resignation would of course not include Vinci, Drapken or Tagliarini as they need those monthly envelopes from Normy. Then again Republican Tagliarini needs all of that mysterious campaign donation money probably excludes Tagliarini.

So i would hold off on any resignation rumor going too far. After all the next rumor might have Normy becoming a priest like Mcgreevy. Norman could not afford the pay cut we can all be sure.

Corruption really pays you see. Right Normy?

WHO IS RESIGNING ON COUNCIL? said...

To quote that idiot Corzine. The root of corruption at the local level is deeply seated in local developmental approvals. That has Uncle Normy all over that.

As for a possible resignation it could be Mayor Sobel. Just a thought. He is moving and good riddance is all i can say. You won't be missed Davey. You were no Golaith for the people after all. Hey Davey did Normy make the down payment for your new house or was it written on a CME check.

Maybe Sobel resigns then Norman appoints Tagliarini as Mayor then Normy appoints Cannon to the council. Just a thought. Discuss amongst yourselves.

weknowkauffdoyou??? said...

News Flash to the republican candidates. There is a council meeting this week. Might be good to ask some questions.

Questions start off with:

What about the sale of the Basillian Fathers of Mariopoch on Monastery Lane in Aberdeen. Or does Norman Kauff or any other politician in Aberdeen own any property out there under their own name or a secret holding company? Who is Harry Reed and who is his legal representative? Why does S K Properties have so much influence in Aberdeen? Does Norman Kauff legally represent any of the developmentally involved property owners. Same goes for Sen Lesniak and his law firm. By the way K is S K Properties has the K standing for Kutcher. Kutcher is the brother of a North jersey politician who blackmailed his own family member and is in jail for it.

Nice circle of friends you have Normy. Then again dealing with convicted felons is nothing new for our Normy. Right Normy? After all there is the train station developer who is a convicted felon. Then a late racehorse in the "criminals who Normy deals with" we have a dark horse in former Town Manager Mark Coren, who may be being "ridden" as we speak.

At least Normy will have friends inside when he arrives to show him the ropes or who to point out who is the most gentle when they..??????????

Anonymous said...

The worse thing the republicans can do is ask questions. Every time Garagusa asks a question, Perry jumps on him and he gets tongue tied, because he has no idea what is really going on.

Anonymous said...

It seems that the different %s in college graduation rate is due to data from different years. Bottom line is that I wouldn't want a brain surgeon from a medical school that graduated 100% of those enrolled and 100% of Navy Seal recruits don't make it through training.

To some degree it's easy to see that less selective colleges and community colleges have lower graduation rates because they are accepting students for admission that may not be committed to the work necessary to gain a degree.

Bottom line is that the statistic is misleading and in some cases we should be happy that more people had the OPPORTUNITY to pursue further education than other would have.

I'm not sure what the measurement is. Maybe what percent of HS graduates become contributing law abiding citizens.

Anonymous said...

I hear 800+ market rate homes are coming to Aberdeen. That means at least 500 kids in the school district. That means two schools will have to be built. You can bet Norman and all his scum associates will move out of town rather then pay their fair share for the nightmare they themselves created.

Norman you are F'ng all of us taxpayers once again, you low life scumbag. I hate all you stand for, you political hack.

This info will get out, and when it does you and your candidates can pack their bags. You F'n scumbag Kauff. Whatever happened to the senior housing that was supposed to stop my kids school from being so overcrowded in class? I am willing to bet you are going to try and use COAH as an excuse. Right Norman Kauff?

How come when every other town is fighting the COAH quota system? If this is true and Norman Kauff gets his greedy hands all over this you can bet it is to give CM&E millions and that means Norman kauff gets rich? Kauff you are a scumbag! I hate and despise you Norman Kauff and curse you and your family. So on behalf of my family and the future you are robbing from them.

I am not a man proned to any form of violence, so I will do the best I can through the freedom of information act. Get ready Ms. Venture you have a new job as my secretary for the truth about Norman Kauff.

If this is even close to being true I will be at every council meeting, planning and zoning meeting and will demand every piece of paper Norman Kauff has ever touched. I will ask every person on every board, commitee and council position about their relationship with Norman Kauff. I will be Kauff's nightmare! He will eat sleep and think nothing but what question I will ask for next.

First round of questions will be.

1. Total monies paid to CM&E, Legal teams and town planners since the democrats took over?

2. Pro Se legal suit with subpoenas for all involved, Brown, Gallo and every employee in Aberdeen since the democrats took over.

3. Every spouse of the above will be asked questions.

4. Every e-mail, phone log listing of every town phone given to every employee will be questioned.

5. Every dollar Kauff, every dollar will be asked about.

Get ready all we are about to get Kauffed.

Santa Fe Don said...

Not even the evil Kauff is that stupid. Greedy sure. But not that stupid. However, if this is true and it will then immediately get out to the public, Kauff and his corrupt cohorts will have a mutiny of the citizens to deal with just before election day. What about Cifeeli and the two projects he was trying to do? Any news?

Was this Monastery Lane sale supposed to be a secret?

How did it get out?

I bet the Aberdeener is just doing his job. I don't understand his sacrificing the topics of Kauff corruption for the excuse of just being a school board member. Time for Ken A. to start his own website. Ken speaks the truth. That would be very disappointing to many if the Aberdeener shut down his objectivity just before such an important election.

I agree with the Cannon thing it would make perfect, corrupt, Kauff sense. Shameless politicians all of them.

Santa Fe Don said...

School Board member Warren you better start asking about the topics listed on the previous post about 800 or so houses being built in Aberdeen. That is an awful lot of kids to put into the system with no Kauff monies towards education. He dreamed up some plan last time to screw the district. This would collapse the district.

O'Malley are you reading this? You better not get into bed with Kauff. If you do keep your bags packed unless you want some bullshit job at the MVC to pad your state pension.

Aberdeener said...

Santa Fe,

I've been hearing the same things you have but I've not been able to confirm any of it. Nothing's been presented to the Planning Board. No sale has been recorded at the county.

I've also been on the phone with COAH and I'll be reviewing the town budget.

However, there's a list of stuff I've not criticized in fear it may compromise my ability as a school board member. (So you know, I doubt any of it would change the election.)

Same story with the school district.

None of it is a secret, though. Anyone is free to email me and I'll be happy to talk in private.

COUNCIL MEETING MAY BE AT SIX said...

Council meeting may be at six o'clock tomorrow night. I think COAH which would mean Kauffs retirement fund will possibly be up for discussion. Republicans don't fail us if you want our votes. Ask the tough questions. Mr. A. use that legal questioning skill they must have taught you at law school.

Jump the shark ? said...

Can anyone say "the Aberdeener has jumped the shark"? If Mr. Warren will not post about the council election and the millions in Kauff corruption then it is time to turn the channel. That is sad!

Thanks for trying Joey Warren.

Anonymous said...

Why all of a sudden is there a change in the normal council meeting time? What are they trying to pull? The wool over our eyes perhaps? I will stop by and look at the agenda in the morning. I think affordable housing is on the list to be discussed or Kauffdiscussed which simply means do what Norm wants and vote the way norm wants. Can anyone say cashintimeforcme. Rat bastards all of them.

Anonymous said...

I have been working twelve plus hours a day and read the post late last night. So before I head back I think whoever may go tonight needs to ask about these development meetings. Are they recorded. Are notes taken. Who attends and keeps track of the decisions. Do our legal, engineering, and planning type representatives attend. Are council people advised of what is going on and the outcome on a weekly basis. Is Kauff involved and why. Start with the mayor and work your way down if he gives some tricky answer. If anyone attends please give an update for those of us working two jobs just to survive it would be appreciated.

Anonymous said...

Ok so where is this stunning information that moron the trurh promised on Sept 1?

Anonymous said...

TOWNSHIP OF ABERDEEN
SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE
THE TOWNSHIP OF ABERDEEN COUNCIL WILL HOLD A SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2009 AT 6:00 P.M., AT WHICH TIME THE COUNCIL WILL GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION TO DISCUSS LITIGATION. THE WORKSHOP AND REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING FOR SEPTEMBER 1, 2009 WILL IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING AT 7:00 P.M.
PLACE: TOWNSHIP OF ABERDEEN MUNICIPAL BUILDING, COUNCIL CONFERENCE ROOM, ONE ABERDEEN SQUARE, ABERDEEN, NJ.
KAREN VENTURA, RMC/CMC
MUNICIPAL CLERK

Lot's of CME Billable Hours on Agenda said...

AGENDA
ABERDEEN TOWNSHIP COUNCIL
DATE: TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2009 – 7:00 PM
WORKSHOP MEETING
Drapkin, Perry, Raymond, Tagliarini, Vinci, Deputy Mayor Gumbs, Mayor Sobel
1. 2008 Municipal Audit
2. Corrective Action Plan, see proposed resolution/plan.
3. Award of Bid for Lease of Township Land for Communications Tower, see letter from CME
Associates dated June 2, 2009.
4. Performance Guarantee Release for 93 Kennedy Avenue, Block 188, Lot 9, see letter from
CME Associates dated August 17, 2009.
5. Performance Guarantee Release for County Road, Block 229, Lots 2,3,4,5, see letter from CME
Associates dated August 17, 2009.
6. Maintenance Bond Release for Wawa Route 35, Block 303, Lots 24 & 25, see letter from CME
Associates.
7. Retaining Wall in Municipal Right-Of-Way, 148 Milton Avenue, see letter from CME
Associates dated July 30, 2009.
8. Vacation of Paper Street/Bank Street, Block 33, Lots 2 & 3.
9. Live Where You Work Program, Presentation by Holly Reycraft, Tax Assessor.
10. Discussion: West Prospect Avenue Petition

AGENDA
ABERDEEN TOWNSHIP COUNCIL
DATE: TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2009
REGULAR MEETING
immediately following Workshop Meeting which starts at 7:00 p.m.
Drapkin, Perry, Raymond, Tagliarini, Vinci, Deputy Mayor Gumbs, Mayor Sobel
1. ROLL CALL
2. MOMENT OF SILENCE
3. SALUTE TO THE FLAG
4. REPORTS - Mayor
Council
Manager
Committee
5. HEARING OF THE CITIZENS – Agenda Items only.
6. MINUTES
Workshop, Regular & Executive Meeting Minutes of July 21, 2009
7. CONTINUED BUSINESS
A BOND ORDINANCE NO. 14-2009 – PUBLIC HEARING
BOND ORDINANCE TO AUTHORIZE THE MAKING OF A PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT
AND THE ACQUISITION OF NEW ADDITIONAL OR REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT
AND MACHINERY IN, BY AND FOR THE WATER UTILITY OF THE TOWNSHIP OF
ABERDEEN, IN THE COUNTY OF MONMOUTH, STATE OF NEW JERSEY, TO
APPROPRIATE THE SUM OF $415,000 TO PAY THE COST THEREOF, TO FULLY OR
PARTIALLY FUND APPROPRIATIONS FROM THE WATER UTILITY CAPITAL
IMPROVEMENT FUND, TO AUTHORIZE THE ISSUANCE OF BONDS TO FINANCE
SUCH APPROPRIATION AND TO PROVIDE FOR THE ISSUANCE OF BOND
ANTICIPATION NOTES IN ANTICIPATION OF THE ISSUANCE OF SUCH BONDS.
B. ORDINANCE NO. 16-2009 – PUBLIC HEARING
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE REVISED GENERAL ORDINANCES OF THE
TOWNSHIP OF ABERDEEN, CHAPTER II ADMINISTRATION
C. RESOLUTION NO. 2009-77 – AMENDMENT 2009 MUNICIPAL BUDGET – PUBLIC
HEARING
8. NEW BUSINESS
A. CONSENT AGENDA
CONSENT AGENDA – All items listed under 8A are considered to be routine by the Township
Council and will be enacted by one motion. There will be no separate discussion on these
items. If discussion is desired, that item will be removed from the Consent Agenda and will be
considered separately.
1. RESOLUTION NO. 2009-93 – BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council that it
hereby complies with the promulgation of the Local Finance Board for the 2008 Audit.
2. RESOLUTION NO. 2009-94 – BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council that it
hereby authorizes the Corrective Action Plan.
3. RESOLUTION NO. 2009-95 – BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council that it
hereby awards a bid for Lease of Township Land for Communications Tower.
4. RESOLUTION NO. 2009-96 – BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council that it
hereby authorizes release of performance guarantees for Block 188, Lot 9, 93 Kennedy
Avenue.
5. RESOLUTION NO. 2009-97 – BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council that it
hereby authorizes release of performance guarantees for Block 229, Lots 2 – 5, County
Road.
6. RESOLUTION NO. 2009-98 – BE IT RESOLVED by the Township Council that it
hereby authorizes release of performance guarantees for Block 303, Lots 24 & 25, Route
35.
7. RA-933 – Raffle License for Village School PSA, Holmdel, NJ
8. RA-934 – Raffle License for Village School PSA, Holmdel, NJ
9. HEARING OF THE CITIZENS/CORRESPONDENCE AND PETITIONS
10. ADJOURNMENT

FRIEND OF THE TRUTH ADVISES said...

THE TRUTH HAS BEEN SIDELINED BY AN INTERVIEW AND MAY HAVE TO CURTAIL HIS PUBLIC POSTINGS AS DIRECTED. HE IS RECOVERING NICELY. JUST SO YOU KNOW.

A Section for America said...

It is obviously a bit early for Christmas gifts from Kauff and Company to CM&E until you realize that the hard pressing and very costly election is just around the corner. The CM&E payday which is all this will be tonight is just another Kauffassault on the taxpayers pocketbooks.

We can only hope that all the council people will stand up for those of us the citizens that they are sworn to serve. What am I saying this is Aberdeen. Sorry. Senior moment.

This is just what you get when your town leadership does not go out to bid for all of its professional services. Right Mr. Aitken? I hope Ken that you will be there tonight to ask the pointing questions on this CM&E travesty.

If the Republicans don't come out fighting tonight and I and everyone I can speak until election day will not vote on this election day. You Republicans can be sure that is what Kauff is counting on. Time to get off your asses. Ask about the 800 houses and if that is going to happen and who has discussed such a horrible idea. It will kill our town. COAH is a JOKE !

Anonymous said...

Sidelined by an interview...hmm..interesting

Anonymous said...

COAH is a travesty in Aberdeen, not a joke. Tagliarini and the entire Kauff Council use COAH as an excuse to make whatever deals suit them. That's what this is all about.

I wonder how much it cost each taxpayer every time that CME appears on the agenda tonight?

Anonymous said...

I'd like to take a minute to address the bus passes that came in the mail for my children.

On the passes, it states that the kids should be at the bus stop "@ 5 Min B4" the time on the pass.

I am appalled that something came to my house from the school like that.

If my child turned in an assignment with that "computer slang" on it, it would be sent home with an F on it.

Anonymous said...

waaaaaaaaaaaaaa

Make sure you don't say "ain't" in front of them, then I would be appalled.

Worry about test scores and voting records of board members and how board members are running unopposed.

Anonymous said...

Just got home. Anyone go to the council meeting tonight? What happened? Let us know. Thanks in advance.

Anonymous said...

It is too bad that Perry is not running for re-election. He is the only one who questions anything, if it wasn't for him the other's would sit there silently, nod their heads in agreement and pass everything. I have hope for Tag's and Lauro the others are just bobble heads. I worry about the future of Aberdeen more as the election occurs, we need intelligent, town caring people on this council. I will be voting for Vail and Garaguso, it seems they care. Good luck to the two of them.

Ken said...

I agree Mr. Perry is the only one that asks questions. Mr. Perry is just a typical casualty of the norm and by that I mean the normal control that unfortunately does not allow for a man like Mr. Perry to make a positive difference and to put honest work on behalf of the residents into the poolitical process. I have been impressed with Mr. Perry for a long time now, since he was my neighbor on Cliffwood Avenue. He helped us get rid of bad management in our complex years ago. Thanks once again Mr. Perry. Good luck in the future Mr. Perry.

Anonymous said...

Hey School Board, Just Got back from the High School. Something needs to be done about the traffic. Why was a policeofficer blocking every entrance. Traffic, cursing and lateness. Why don't you guys try to drop a kid off at the high school tomorrow morning and see what I mean.

No vote for candidate Tag said...

My vote research is done after last nights council meeting. The silence of candidate Tagliarini and his failure to question or support some of the topics brought forth by Councilman Perry was example enough. Maybe if something comes up about a rec program or ball field improvement he will say something. Just another puppet for the dictator of Aberdeen to control.

Anonymous said...

Worry about test scores and voting records of board members and how board members are running unopposed.


How can you expect the children to do better in school, when the district can't send out bus passes in actual English?

I think that is a pretty legitimate issue.

And shame on you for talking down to a parent that is trying to take an interest in what's going on with their kid and school!

So many people on this site bitch about parents being uninterested and lazy, and then when someone voices a concern that they have, they get brow beaten.

I was a huge fan of this blog at the beginning, but it's just turned into a huge mess of people tearing each other apart. Nothing is getting done, nothing is really changing. It's just a big circle jerk of mean people.

Anonymous said...

Amen to the last anon.

Anonymous said...

To the poster who was at the council meeting you would rather vote for Thomas Aljian as mayor? He is a know nothing, always asking for things around his block, blowhard.

Aljian and Tag should debate said...

Like Vinci never asked for anything? Don't get me started on the council and what they have asked for. Can you say $850,000.00m intersection, two do not block the intersection street signs and free land.

You insult my intelligence. Let Aljian debate Tagliarini and you will see who is stupid or selfish.

Anonymous said...

Hey truth, are you still running with that "they told me to be quiet" bullshit?

Anonymous said...

Tag and Lauro are the lead bobbleheads! Tagliarini is the ultimate phony. Why vote for anyone that allows Kauff to control a majority of council. A vote for any one Democrat for council is a vote for Kauff because it keeps Dems in the majority. Tagliarini and Lauro have to lose.

Anonymous said...

I'm traveling

Did any one go to the town meeting - did the republican candidates show up?? did they ask anything?? and if so what

I do love Chicago

Anonymous said...

Why does every post on this site somehow wind up reverting back to the town council meetings, democrat/republican candidates, etc.? Isn't this post about school board topics and the previous post about school district strides? This isn't a forum to blog about issues unrelated to the topic presented.

Anonymous said...

Three republican candidates showed up, Aljian asked a couple of budget questions, that is all.

THE TRUTH is back said...

WHY DOES EVERY TOPIC LEAD BACK TO THE COUNCIL? TRY MILLIONS OF DOLLARS, OUR TAX DOLLARS BEING GIFTED TO KAUFF CRONIES.

IF YOU DON'T CARE ABOUT THE TAXES AND FEES THAT KAUFF COSTS YOU THEN IGNORE THE IMPORTANCE. KAUFF IS EVIL PERSONIFIED. HE COSTS ALL OF US IN OUR QUALITY OF LIFE AND THE RECENT RUMOR OF CORRUPT PROCEDURES AND THE QUESTIONABLE DEVELOPMENTAL APPROVALS OF 900+ HOMES IN AND AROUND OUR AREA, WILL DESTROY WHAT LITTLE QUALITY OF LIFE KAUFF ALLOWS US TO HAVE.

900+ HOMES WITH UNKNOWN CHILDREN ADDED TO THE SCHOOL SYSTEM BUT LAURO AND TAGLIARINI HAVE NOTHING TO SAY. MAYOR SOBEL MOVING OR MAYBE ALREADY MOVED OUT OF TOWN, SOME SAY DRAPKEN IS NEXT. ARE THEY RUNNING AWAY FROM THE TAXES AND FEES THEY HAVE ALLOWED TO HAPPEN. WE ALL MUST STOP IT THIS ELECTION DAY. WE MUCT VOTE FOR ANYONE NOT UNDER KAUFF CONTROL. WE MUST DESTROY THE CORRUPT KAUFF CONTROL.

AS FOR THE ANONYMOUS POST ABOUT MY INTERVIEW I JUST WANT YOU ALL TO KNOW THAT THE OFFICES WERE VERY NICE, COFFEE WAS PERFECT AND..... THE REST WILL UNFOLD ON A TIMETABLE THAT KAUFF AND COMPANY WILL HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT. CALL ME A LIAR OR WORSE IF YOU WANT.

I KNOW THE TRUTH.

TO QUOTE GOVERNOR CORZINE;

"THE CORRUPTION AT THE LOCAL LEVEL STARTS WITH THE CONTROL OF LOCAL DEVELOPMENT".

NO WORDS HAVE EVER BEEN TRUER COMING OUT OF GOVERNOR'S CORZINE'S MOUTH.

THE TRUTH


ON A PERSONAL NOTE; A PERSONAL THANK YOU GOES OUT TO LISA FOR HER THOUGHTFUL CARDS AND CALLS WHILE I RECUPERATED. THE CHERRY PIE WAS VERY GOOD AS WELL. THANK YOU ONCE AGAIN. I'M BACK MR. KAUFF AND CO.

Anonymous said...

Welcome back from your stay at the mental institution truth. I'm glad you enjoyed the coffee, but it appears, from what you a posting, that you are still not cured.

Diana said...

I believe it is unclear what is meant by an unsatisfactory school, a poor "success rate", or even what we are trying to achieve with students to decide if they are "successful" or not.

Is a student who aspires to graduate and own his own business successful if he or she does this without going to college?

Is a student successful if they go to say "Brookdale" and do not finish? Because we do not know if they flunked out, found the job of their dreams, moved onto training or education more suited to a well reflected life plan, it is hard to say.

Such value laden interpretations of desires, outcomes, and actions show that statistics are almost as biased as the varied and underlying reasons for using them.

THE TRUTH said...

THE CURE IS COMING FOR KAUFF AND COMPANY. I WILL BE THE ONE MOST PROUD HAVING KNOWN AND BEING MOST HELPFUL WITH THE INFORMATION I PROVIDED.

BY THE WAY ANY REPORTS FROM THE DEVELOPMENTAL MEDIATION TEAM AS YET. IS NOT SOME OF OUR COUNCIL PEOPLE AND OUR OVERPRICED PROFESSIONALS OBLIGED TO REPORT TO US, THE TAXPAYERS, AS TO THE PLANNED OR PROPOSED DEVELOPMENTAL PLANS UNDER CONSIDERATION?

DEVELOPMENT ON THE LOCAL LEVEL IS WHERE CORRUPTION STARTS. PROVE ME AND GOVERNOR CORZINE WRONG. HAVE THE PROCESS BE TRANSPARENT, OPEN TO THE PUBLIC AND INVOLVING CITIZENS FROM THE COMMUNITY WHO WILL BE MOST AFFECTED.

UNTIL THEN IT IS ALL CORRUPTION PLAIN AND SIMPLE.

PROVE ME WRONG KAUFF !

THE TRUTH said...

I LIVE FOR NORMAN KAUFF I USE KAUFF AS OTHERS USE CAFFEINE OR CIGARETTES I LOVE KAUFF ALLKAUFFNOPLAYMAKESTRUTHADULLBOYALLKAUFFNOPLAYMAKESTRUTHADULLBOYALLKAUFFNOPLAYMAKESTRUTHADULLBOYALLKAUFFNOPLAYMAKESTRUTHADULLBOY...

Aberdeen Whispers said...

Is it legal for Alphonse Anthony Garaguso to run for Aberdeen township council under the name Anthony Garaguso???

aberdeenwhispers.blogspot.com

Aberdeener said...

Diana,

I see you're a fan of Disraeli's dictum that there are lies, damn lies, and statistics. Undoubtedly, statistics can be used to misrepresent the truth but this isn't one of those times.

Statistics can only be applied to groups, not individuals. For example, moving from Chinatown to Aberdeen won't make it more likely for an Asian family to have Caucasian children despite Aberdeen being predominantly white. So, too, we are not making any inferences on an individual who's not completed any program beyond high school.

Also, correlation does not imply causation. That Harvard graduates, on average, earn more does not imply that graduating from Harvard will improve your chances to earn more. Bill Gates never graduated from Harvard.

And a program is not judge solely by its graduation rate. Another commenter was correct that certain programs, like the Navy Seals, are purposely designed to exclude everyone but the very best. Obviously, Brookdale, an open enrollment institution, strives to educate everybody.

The fact remains that only 36% of our students are expected to complete ANY program of higher education. It's well known that most promising professions either require a degree or strongly prefer one and that people without degrees, on average, earn less than their peers.

What bothers me is the utter absence of outrage. Do we care so little about our children's education? If so, we're getting what we deserve.

Anonymous said...

QUESTION WERE ARE THE 900 HOMES BEING BUILT? WHY ARE WE NOT TALKING TO THE MEMBERS OF THE PLANNING AND ZONING BOARD? I WAS IN TOWN HALL TODAY NO ONE COULD ANSWER THE QUESTION CAN ANYONE?

driver8 said...

Aberdeen Whispers = Gus Toomey.
Anonymous guy in Chicago = Gus Toomey.
Anonymous guy with the negative comments about the Republicans = Gus Toomey.
Democrat councilman that was so bad that even Kauff got rid of him = Gus Toomey.

Aberdeener said...

The Democrats have known about Garaguso's petition for months. If there were any issues, they would have filed a claim by now.

Also keep in mind that this isn't the first time Garaguso is running as "Anthony".

Anonymous said...

Norman Kauff.
Kauff has never held an elected office that I'm aware of. A lawyer, he has held several no-bid professional contracts in a number of towns in Western Monmouth and the Bayshore where he wields a lot of influence. He has been of controversy in several of these towns. Read The Middle Road from back in '03, when Kauff had an apparent no-show appointment in Hazlet, who's Democratic mayor seemed to be clueless as to Kauff's actual function and duties.
A post last year at Da Truth Squad appears to bear out the no-show thing, this time in Manalapan. And Aberdeener, from Kauff's home base of operation, has an entire category dedicated to Norman Kauff.
He receives a public pension, which appears to be the result of a process called multiple job holding, or double dipping.
For some reason, Kauff has evaded coverage in the local media. No Courier exposé here. No write-ups in the Asbury Park Press, The Transcript or the Independent. As low-key as he is, he has been a power, not only in Hazlet, Manalapan or Aberdeen, but in Marlboro, Matawan and Keyport too. On the County level, he is a trusted lieutenant of Boss Scudiery.

Anonymous said...

What was this about??
TOWNSHIP OF ABERDEEN
SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE
THE TOWNSHIP OF ABERDEEN COUNCIL WILL HOLD A SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2009 AT 6:00 P.M., AT WHICH TIME THE COUNCIL WILL GO INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION TO DISCUSS LITIGATION. THE WORKSHOP AND REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING FOR SEPTEMBER 1, 2009 WILL IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING AT 7:00 P.M.

Anonymous said...

The 800 homes not 900 was as enior complex being built by Kara Homes in the Freneau section. At this point it is a dead issue because all the new developers that come to th eplanning board do not want age restricted and the council will not budge on this issue beacause it would be a drain on the school system. I think, what I remember about the application it was closer to 700 total homes

Anonymous said...

I think most of you need this

Internet addiction center opens in US
FALL CITY, Wash. (AP) - Ben Alexander spent nearly every waking minute playing the video game "World of Warcraft." As a result, he flunked out of the University of Iowa.
Alexander, 19, needed help to break an addiction he calls as destructive as alcohol or drugs. He found it in this suburb of high-tech Seattle, where what claims to be the first residential treatment center for Internet addiction in the United States just opened its doors.

The center, called ReSTART, is somewhat ironically located near Redmond, headquarters of Microsoft and a world center of the computer industry. It opened in July and for $14,000 offers a 45-day program intended to help people wean themselves from pathological computer use, which can include obsessive use of video games, texting, Facebook, eBay, Twitter and any other time-killers brought courtesy of technology.
"We've been doing this for years on an outpatient basis," said Hilarie Cash, a therapist and executive director of the center. "Up until now, we had no place to send them."
Internet addiction is not recognized as a separate disorder by the American Psychiatric Association, and treatment is not generally covered by insurance. But there are many such treatment centers in China, South Korea and Taiwan—where Internet addiction is taken very seriously—and many psychiatric experts say it is clear that Internet addiction is real and harmful.
The five-acre center in Fall City, about 30 miles east of Seattle, can handle up to six patients at a time. Alexander is so far the only patient of the program, which uses a cold turkey approach. He spends his days in counseling and psychotherapy sessions, doing household chores, working on the grounds, going on outings, exercising and baking a mean batch of ginger cookies.
Whether such programs work in the long run remains to be seen. For one thing, the Internet is so pervasive that it can be nearly impossible to resist, akin to placing an alcoholic in a bar, Cash said.

Anonymous said...

With love from the beach

10 Signs That You May Be a Blog Addict

Blogs exist on just about every variety of subject one can imagine. And more and more blogs come online each and every day. But what does it take to really have an active blog that people will subscribe to and come back again and again to read? It requires creativity. It requires dedication. Even more so, it requires an addiction to the act of blogging itself.
How about you? Are you a blog addict? Here are ten signs that may indicate that you have an addiction, my friend.
1. Bloglines, Google Reader or some other RSS reader is constantly open on your computer’s desktop.
2. You tell customers that you missed a project deadline because “some things” came up but in reality, you were blogging.
3. You periodically dream that you are blogging.
4. You get inspiration for new blog posts at the strangest times – in the Jacuzzi, sitting on the toilet, during marital activities (cough, cough)… you get the picture.
5. Before blogs, you used to tuck the kids into bed at night. Now you check for unapproved blog comments before heading to bed yourself.
6. In order for your family to keep up with what’s going on in your life, they have to read your blog. Furthermore, if they want to communicate with you, they have to comment on your blog.
7. You have actually considered setting up a blog for your pet of which you would post the entries pretending you are your pet (weirdo).
8. You can’t remember dates for your wedding anniversary, kids birthdays, etc., but you know what your Technorati rank is.
9. You blog about anything and everything including bad meals, your pets, getting your car stuck in snow, conversations you have in the bathroom, etc.
10. Keeping a blog is no longer enough but you now have to record your every move on Twitter.

Pleaseanswerthe10Mr.Kauff said...

Wow I think I am an addict. I am a blog addict and my name is F N K.

I am addicted to honest government and that does not exist in Aberdeen. At the council meeting the other night the republican candidates showed up and asked a couple of questions. They failed miserably to raise the ire of any of the council people. On another subject that has not gotten much play. The Kauff (hand picked) manager for our community is an idiot. It was laughable to see him try to ignore councilman Perry as Perry asked him question after question. None of the other Kauff council people even tried to support Perry and that tells me a whole lot as well. As for the Kauff mayoral candidate he is a idiot too. Tagliarini must have drank so much Kauff kool-aid the when he walks he "sloshes".

NO VOTE FOR TAG from me and mine. He is a great disappointment. Something has happened since he started coaching and it is not good.

Pleaseanswerthe10Mr.Kauff said...

Kauff got rid of Toomey because he was anti-Coren. I think Toomey deep down inside knows what he really is. His friendship with J.O. from Lori Lane is all I needed to know about Toomey. Right Gus? Reading anything from the fatherland lately Gus?

F the Kauffkins said...

Tag got Kauffed and pretty soon Tag will be Kauffing all of us. He tries to come off as a nice guy but if he is with Normy then he is not the man I thought he was. A true shame. What must Lauro and Tag owe Normy to dive on the sword? The two of them are not what many of us have thought if they are Kauffed up!

F U Normy

Anonymous said...

Where is Rich Goldberg when Aberdeen needs him most? Maybe Murphy and the boys should try and resurrect the republican party?

The above is your joke of the day.

Anonymous said...

pleasanswerthe10Mrkauff, if you were at the council meeting why didn't you stand up and ask your questions? Let me guess - you have no balls! You are just a blow hard on here.

Anonymous said...

nick minutolo - why do you post under Pleaseanswerthe10Mr.Kauff and not under your real name

Anonymous said...

Aberdeener: On another subject regarding the school district. Can you check and see if anyone investigates the applications regarding reduced/free lunch and reduced transportation. I am pretty confident that if each application was investigated a little further you could save the tax payers (regardless if it is state subsidized) some money. I am all for helping people who truly need it. Years ago pride alone would police such applications for free help. Unfortunately today I have very little confidence that much of our society even knows what pride is!

Aberdeener said...

I can ask Mr. Glastein what is the process to qualify for a subsidized meal.

I've also suggested to the administration that we may want to survey the staff to ensure we're only paying for health benefits for their immediate family members who continue to live at home.

Anonymous said...

Aberdeener,
What is the administrations position on President Obamas address to the students. Will students be able to opt out and continue with regular education for that time? Also what grades and will a questionnaire be required.

Pleaseanswerthe10Mr.Kauff said...

Hey Paul Raineir I forgot to talk to you on the way out of the council chamber the other night. Just wanted to tell you that your questioning of Mayor Sobel was fantastic. The Mayor tried to shut you down right off the bat and you gave it right back to him. Good Job! As for Mayor Sobel all I can say is nice try you earned your share of Kauffcheese this week. As for the town attorney you actually answered the question about the development changes that are coming and that will require a new plan approval. The truth is nice for a change. Especially from an attorney under the payroll of Aberdeen. It seldoms happen.

Ms. Debalis look for a call from Norman on that one. He can't stand the truth. I wonder what would you have said if Councilman Perry was not there. Who will keep the council in check after he goes? The Feds perhaps? We can only hope.

Just a citizen said...

I guess I am really stupid. I thought those we elected were supposed to protect us from overdevelopment and corrupt outsiders.

Thought for the day is:

Why is this Norman Kkauff character even allowed in the municipal office building?

PlumberDave said...

Yes you are really stupid. Politics and Kauff equals CORRUPTION plain and simple. Welcome to reality stupid.

Anonymous said...

Another day, another attack on teachers by Big Bad Joey.

The poster asked about people who knowingly abuse the free lunch and transportation option. Meaning some MAYBE can afford it.

NO ONE BROUGHT UP HEALTH BENEFITS for staff. You are unreal.

As a former teacher, I send my condolences to every MARSD teacher. This "nonbiased" BOE member has it out for you.

Anonymous said...

pleasanswerthe10Mrkauff, you still never answered my question. WHY DIDN'T YOU STAND UP AND ASK THE QUESTIONS YOU HAVE?

Norm said...

Shut up Dave. I'm still waiting for you to snake my toilet. Stop blogging and start plumbing!

Anonymous said...

pleaseanswerthe10 is a big babby that's why. He can post the questions on here, act like he cares, goes to the council meeting and sits there and doesn't ask. Good job! you are really helping us and the town, keep posting here and not asking the council members.

ANSWER THE 10 QUESTIONS NORM said...

Going to the council is very fun. Where else can you see people lie to your face and deny that which they know is true. That being the Kauff corruption that pervades Aberdeen.

For those of you in Rio Linda pervades means controls.

By the way did the mayor move? If and when he moves does he have to resign? If he does not resign is he violating local ordinances or ethics rules? That of course would mean the mayor would be violating local ordinances and ethics rules once again.

They hate the Aberdeener and all that shows them in the light of corruption.

F e'm all!

You especially Normy!

Anonymous said...

Does Democratic council candidate live in Aberdeen?

Anonymous said...

Will Lauro retire if he doesn't win? What's his position on padded salaries to increase pension payouts?

Anonymous said...

Which Democratic candidates were on the Planning Board when it approved the failed Ciaglia development on Cambridge? Hint (All of them).

Anonymous said...

So where does Cannon live?

Anonymous said...

Who knew about Coren's perversions before he was jailed as a child molester and became a registered sex offender?

Anonymous said...

If the aberdeener investigates he will find that the district actually makes money from the number of free/reduced lunch.

Here are some answers for you all said...

Just so you know.

If you are talking about Candidate Cannon that may be a question for the republican candidates to ask. They won't. Cannon supposedly shacks up with the girlfriend, but does not own a thing in Aberdeen. Maybe he bought Sobel's place?

The Ciaglia family used to be one of the favored contributors to all things Kauff. The self inflicted failure of the Ciaglia development on Cambridge is only due to the Ciaglia greed. $680,000.00 for a house that in this area should not have been more then $500,000.00. Greed bit them in the ass and i laugh every time i drive by.

As to the approval it was at a time when 'what Ciaglia wanted Norman Kauff and his boards let Ciaglia have'. Mayor Slobel (misspelt on purpose as he is a slob-el) was a big part of all of their approvals. Right Davey?

CME was also a big contributing factor and screwed our church over by not watching Ciaglia like they were paid to. More failed promises by all things Kauff controlled in Aberdeen. And with our tax money to boot.

The CME monies funneled back to Kauff were the reason for all things going just like Ciaglai wanted. For years! Just another Xmas present for Kauff and Company from Santa Ciaglia. But it seems that gravy train is over as Kauff has found the Lakewood Boys for Anchor Glass, K&S for Freneau and assorted other envelope sliding developers to grease the corrupt developmental skids in Kaufferdeen.

The one remaining question is the Church Street Senior Housing that my Mom wants to move into. It is almost three years since that one was supposed to have been started. Not a shovel has been put into the ground. Mom seems to remember some ceremony with politicians shoveling something on that site. Knowing Kauff it was little white envelopes of money. Maybe that is the guy from the parking lot shakedown. Tthat is why nothing has happened on that site? Maybe Kauff and CME needed another $250,000.00 environmental study? How many of those have been done on that site since 1995? McNamara did one under the Republicans and I think CME did one under the pedophile Coren.

As far as the Cannon residency question that question needs to be asked to the campaign people in Freehold. Someone must have to monitor that type of thing. Then again Kauff is up for Mr. Freehold this year. I also think it is called fraud to have a non resident pretend to be something he, his parents, Kauff and the entire local and county level Democratic Party know full well his residency is an outright lie. You don't see him at any council meetings do you? Norm keeps him and Montone hidden.

Montone tid- bits soon to be made public by the way. She like the others is a tool of Kauff and nothing more. Unlike Gallo she will tow the Kauff line just like our Deputy Mayor Gumbs does. Maybe Montone needs to sell some property for a road improvement and will learn a few things from the Deputy Mayor and the real estate magnate himself. Come on down Mr. Free Land Vinny Vinci.

Who says politics does not pay?

Not anyone associated with Kauff!

As for the pedophile. Many things were known and kept quiet according to people in the know around Aberdeen. Chief Kelly and a couple others know the scoop on the pervert i am sure.

Aberdeen it ain't Kansas!

Anonymous said...

If thats true that would explain why no one from the district investigates the applicants. (regarding the reduced lunch and transportation) How does a kid get reduced lunch, who gets dropped of in a nice vehicle wearing nice cloths, and sporting a fancy cell phone? This country has turned into a joke! And its only getting worse. Everyday I look at the American Flag in my front yard and wonder how much longer this will all last! The goverment cant even properly regulate a reduced lunch program, but they think they can run a national health care program!

Anonymous said...

Mr. Warren

Please do your research and try to figure out how our district scores changed in the middle school and then in the HS when the 6th grade was moved to MAMS.

On a personal note, I do not believe that 6th graders belong with 8th graders - 11 yr olds with 14 yr olds is a bad mix mentally and educationally.

Besides that, I went to Matawan in the 80s. The 6th grade, I believe was at Llody Road until about 86-87 or so when they moved the 6th grade back to the respective schools of the area- Strathmore, Ravine, and CLiffwood.

Then a few years back they were put into the MAMS with the 7th and 8th. It would take some research but I wonder how scores were affected.

My educated opinion, living around here for 40 years, I think it did have a negative impact.

Anonymous said...

If the 6th graders are 11 when they are in 8th they are 13. Don't try to add a year to make your point. Some 6th graders are 11 or 12, some 8th graders are 13 or 14. It is not a big deal.

Anonymous said...

askthe10, you still haven't answerd the question, why don't you ask the questions yourself. Stand up state your name and address and say "Mr.Sobel did you move?", ask if Canon lives in town, ask if there was some secret meeting in the parking lot. If he denies it and it is found out to be true there will be a record of his denial on the town council record. Stop acting like you are heling out the township by not doing anything.

Anonymous said...

My husband and I have just returned from a trip to Arlington Cemetery. For anonymous at 7:30 and all the critical commenters here who point accusatory fingers and sow division, I'd like to post a snippet of a speech by Robert Kennedy that is chisled on the low wall located a bit beyond his simple grave with the plain white cross. It says: "What we need in the United States is not division; what we need in the United States is not hatred; what we need in the United States is not violence or lawlessness; but love and wisdom, and compassion toward one another, and a feeling of justice toward those who still suffer within our country." Love, wisdom and compassion?!! Sign me up!

Anonymous said...

Yeah thats great to the Kennedy lover! I wonder if you were preaching that same theme for the last eight years. I think not! And the only division that is taking place in this country is the division between those who contribute, and those who do not! Listen if your neighbor is handicap or in need, of course you help him. But if your neighbor is a lazy bum who doesn't want to contribute, do you mow his lawn and shovel his snow? I doubt you would. That's really the only point i am making in my post. The state reimburses the school district for those who qualify for reduced lunch and transportation as long as they fill out the application correctly. The school district therefore does not bother following up and or investigating the information that people write down on their applications. It does not cost the school district any money out of their budget so, they really do not care! If I had to guess the State is probably reimbursed by the Federal Goverment so they probably do not care either! This is just another perfect example of how inefficient the goverment is with its programs, which is the only reason I used the national health care as an example. My post was not targeting either party just the general direction of our society. So tell me how much are you willing to give up to help others? Would you be willing to give up your trip to DC, to help feed the needy? Your car, your vacation, your retirement money, your children's inheritance, or what? People are just sick and tired and dont have much more to give up. Thats what it has come down to, thanks largely in part to people with philosophies like yours! So forget Kennedy's quote and lets get back to an age old quote thats been around much longer, which is "God helps those who help themselves".

Anonymous said...

Yeah, sign me up for that!

Anonymous said...

Oh yeah, and to all of you who do contribute, Happy Labor Day!

Anonymous said...

The day that I'll let myself froth at the mouth about feeding children, (and feel self-righteous about it!) is.... never!

Anonymous said...

Oh yeah, and to all our brothers and sisters in the labor movement who brought us the eight-hour day, the five-day work week and institutionalized vacations, Happy Labor Day!

Anonymous said...

Thats not what this is about. Its about people beating the system. Adults not children. Unfortunatley the children learn this mindset from their parents and here we are in some cases generations later. Now our great Counrty is on the brink of bankruptcy. Unless of course you have never really been proud of our Counrty! That's another new mindset!

Anonymous said...

Don't any of you get it?

The system is broken!

From generational welfare, corporate welfare. paying farmers to not grow food, cash for clunkers and the list goes on an on. If you do not think that kids whose parents let them eat for free does not happen, good luck. If you don't think kids come to this district and should not be allowed, good luck.

If you think the democrats and their dictator Norman Kauff have served anyone other then themselves, good luck.

Vote for change this November.

Kauff and crew out!

Anyone attached to Kauff out!

Give someone else a try other then the thieves beholding to Kauff.

I am not a Republican but I will not vote for anyone that flies their flag under Kauff.

Kauff get yourhandoutofmypocket said...

The system is not broken it is merely corrupt. Just look at the money gifted to C.M.E. Engineering by the Kauff controlled. My cousin is an engineer with his own company operating in Ocean county. He also knows Dave Samuels personally. His wife upon meeting Samuels told her husband to never do business with him.

This weekend while at a party I asked him what the fees should be for engineering services to a town the size of Aberdeen. He replied the annual amount should be about $500K to $675K. Aberdeen gifts over $1,375,000.00 each and every year to Kauff's close personal friends. Kauff and the others have been doing it for years now, some say over ten years. That is an awful lot of money. Now the Republicans have something to campaign on. Good luck.

Anonymous said...

I hear Vinci is pressing the flesh so hard for votes on behalf of the Kauff controlled candidates that you would think Vincy was running for election.

Kauff controlled out in 09.

CTYRDAINTHAPPY (still) said...

That is how me and mine are voting. After all the non denials denials from the kauff clones i am only voting for the republicans. I and mine have voted democratic all our lives and enough is enough. Mr. Kauff is giving away my childrens futures. I am sure his children and their children are taken care of.

THE TRUTH said...

I AM OFFICIALLY ENDORSING NORMAN KAUFF FOR MAYOR OF ABERDEEN

Above is a liar NOT THE TRUTH said...

Of course the above is a lie. That is politics in Aberdeen.

Unknown said...

I'd like to point out that the Meal Pay Plus online program, which I assume the district is paying to take part in is near useless.

I haven't been able to log on since I first signed up, and the "support" team (when you can get anyone to answer you on their "live" help) keeps telling me that it's because the site is down and to try back later.

It would be a great tool for parents IF they could actually use it.

Anonymous said...

I used the Mealpay Plus online for my child at that started at the Middle School this year and am impressed. It works like Easypass. I have it set up so funds are added to the card when the balance drops below $10. I got an email today that this happened (I put a low starting balance on the card) and was able to log-in and see what my son bought on each day.

There's a small service charge to use it, vs. sending money in -- but I think it's well worth it.

For the record, I do not work for the school system, the school lunch company, or anyone else connected to the system.

Anonymous said...

I think that the service charge for MealPay is too high. I can't believe you can only put money on account online if you pay an additional charge. I will not use it.

Anonymous said...

The service charge is 95 cents.That's too high?! I do agree that the service charge is ridiculous though; it has to cost less to have accounts automatically replenished versus entering manual payments via check or cash. But who's going to go broke over 95 cents?

Anonymous said...

More interesting question is how does Mark Coren pay for his meals in Florida State Prison. Is he on the "All You Can Eat" plan?

Anonymous said...

You must have younger child. I paid for 10 days full lunch price at High school and the charge was almost one days lunch price. Yes that is alot of money.

Anonymous said...

This blog is indicative of all that is wrong with the internet. Bitter malcontents and cremudgeons spreading unchecked lies until sheep begin to follow them. See, e.g., 9/11 conspiracy theorists.

I am acquainted with a couple of the Dem candidates and even I began to believe THE TRUTH and the old fart who apparently said nothing at the last council meeting. But luckily, with some actually verifiable internet sources, I can see at least two of their lies...

1) Sobel's house is for sale, it has not been sold, nor does it appear that he moved yet: http://www.weichert.com/26766439/?GCID=C10566x125

2)Cannon sent me a campaign card, which listed his return address as 233 Perth Hill Court, Aberdeen. I just looked him up on the county property tax records. Don't know who his girlfriend is, but she's not on the deed to his house:
http://tax1.co.monmouth.nj.us/cgi-bin/m4.cgi?&district=1301&block=114.01&lot=233&qual=

If this flat-out lying is the Aberdeen Republicans' campaign strategy, I guess I'll stick with the couple of Dem guys I know...

--Interested Citizen, but cue the ranting that I'm just a Kaufkin...

THE TRUTH said...

DO NOT BELIEVE THE NON BELIEVERS!!! I WHOLEHEARTEDLY ENDORSE KAUFF FOR MAYOR!!! I LOVE NORMAN KAUFF!!! I WISH I WAS NORMAN KAUFF!!!!

PlumberDave said...

If you wish you were Norman Kauff then you would be

Morally corrupt

Politically corrupt

A thief

A liar

A criminal

A low life

A ethically challenged person

Violate the rules of law

Rob from the citizens of many towns

Feed millions of dollars to C.M.E.

Have NO ACCOUNTABILITY

And lastly be a 100% real SCUMBAG

Welcome to the Kauff reality of life.

Bend over!

I am sure his mother is so proud!

Aberdeener said...

Anon,

Mr. Cannon purchased the condo on April 9th, 2009. The question is regarding his one-year residency requirement.

Anonymous said...

Plumber Dave,

While I appreciate your strong feelings on Aberdeen issues, have you considered that your posts are essentially libel? I mean Norman Kauf is not an officeholder or public figure by the legal definition, which means he could actually subpoena Joey for your name and sue you...

I don't know if he would, but he must read this blog, and you're getting a little carried away with your last post. I mean it's textbook libel...

Anonymous said...

Who made the down payment? Norman? CME? When did he register to run for office in Aberdeen? I think people need to be topical to the upcoming election season and the lies being told to the voters.

Just like the lie that Norman Kauff never shook down the developer named Bob in the parking lot of town hall. It happened and every sitting council person knows it. They were told officially!

Let them deny it. They can't!

Anonymous said...

Aberdeener,

I gotcha. That's different from what some are posting on here (Cannon doesn't own anything and pretends to live at his girlfriend's house) but I see the issue. I guess the question is where he lived in Aberdeen before he bought the condo...

--Interested Citizen

THE TRUTH said...

DAVE YOU LIE! NORMAN IS GOOD AND TRUE!!! NORM FOR MAYOR!!! DAVE YOU MUST SEE THE LIGHT!!!

Anonymous said...

On the Cannon issue, didn't his father get away with not having to meet the residency requirement for Matawan with the help of the legal team of the Democratic party and Vic Scudieri? Why wouldn't Cannon take a page from his father's book? No political accusations here just fact. The requirements were circumvented by some very clever manipulating of the system.

Anonymous said...

Some insight on the Cannon issue. He lived in the condos by the high school since July 2008. That would be well over a year, wouldn't it. I should know, he was my neighbor. As for his family, his parents are both life long residents of Aberdeen and Matawan. They have probably contributed more to both communities than all the blowhards put together on this blog. Take a page from the Kennedy lady, contribute to your community and stop picking on an individual who actually wants to contribute to his community at a very young age. OMG get a life!

Anonymous said...

Sorry, Cannon's son neighbor, Mike Cannon set a precedent when he took his residency requirements to Court. This cost the taxpayers of Matawan legal fees. No one is saying Michael Cannon hasn't contributed to the community. The fact is the law is the law and in taking the matter to Court, Michael Cannon set a precedent for others to follow. Whether it was right or wrong, time will tell. He also fattened his pension plan in the bargain, again fact not accusation.

Now as to your unkind remark, "get a life," I happen to be a lifelong resident of Matawan and have contributed on many levels. As a voter/resident, each of us is entitled to question when the laws are circumvented and cost taxpayers. Because someone doesn't agree with you, that is no reason to name call or make nasty remarks. The right to speak one's mind and to ask questions is what this country of ours is all about. BTW, what have you contributed to your community?

Anonymous said...

Since we are only speaking about facts, lets set the record straight. The taxpayers of Matawan did not pay a dime for the Cannon challenge in court or anywhere else. The money was funded by the Matawan Republicans. The taxpayers of Matawan did not pay. The rest of the facts may be true, taxpayers money is not.

Anonymous said...

Always looking to be educated, I stand corrected.

Aberdeener said...

It's actually a funny (albeit serious) story.

My favorite part is
"Cannon, on vacation in Hawaii, spoke to the court via speakerphone.

"'We were worried about tuition and finances, so I thought the best thing to do would be to sell the home to have enough money in the bank to pay tuition,' he said."

That's quite an argument to make while vacationing in Hawaii. :)

Anonymous said...

Almost as funny as the guy called the Aberdeener who runs for the school board and wins. But sends his kids to private school. Now that is really seriously funny. You forgot to mention, the guy sold his house because he has leukemia, and wanted to make sure his kids had money for tuition. Yea Joey, thats real funny.

Aberdeener said...

Leukemia is not funny. Testifying in court via speakerphone to a financial hardship while vacationing in Hawaii is funny.

Anonymous said...

I note that the MARSD website publishes all of the policies of the Board of Education, except for the Board's by-laws. Only the "Role of the Members" file is available, but the rest says "file not found." Interestingly, this would be the primary resource for anyone who might be interested in the nuts-and-bolts of running for the Board. I'm not suggesting any malfeasance, but it is curious that the only portions of the Board's policies missing from the website are the ones that a potential candidate would need to read in order to understand how to run...

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