the social contract of roselle park

8/4/2019 The Social Contract of Roselle Park

http://slidepdf.com/reader/full/the-social-contract-of-roselle-park 1/5

BY

ANDREW CASAIS

THE

SOCIAL CONTRACTOF

ROSELLE PARK



PART I – THE ISSUES

Today we face many issues as individuals, and perhaps even more as a

community. In order to reach effective resolutions we must first come together

and understand the matters before us.

Westfield Avenue and Chestnut Street Improvements

A decline in our Westfield Avenue and Chestnut Street corridor from both a business and

aesthetic perspective is problematic on many levels. However, this is most problematic because

these thoroughfares are such highly trafficked roadways. Those traveling across Union County,

or in some cases the entire state, may in all likelihood drive on Westfield Avenue. These main

arteries offer visitors a first taste of Roselle Park.

If the Roselle Park stretch of Westfield Avenue looked more appealing or welcoming than it

does at this point, individuals or even business owners may choose to take a second look at

Roselle Park instead of just utilizing an otherwise unattractive highway that happens to run

through the Borough. Stretching from Borough Hall to the Elizabeth boarder, the First Ward

comprises more of Westfield Avenue than any other ward in Roselle Park. The establishment of

a welcoming atmosphere encourages growth in our area and contributes to an identity that all

residents can be proud of.

Business Procreation and Property Taxes

A successful business district plays two important roles in our community. First, an abundance

and variety of businesses not only gives residents something to do and a sense of identity, but

also gives those from outside of Roselle Park a reason to visit and sample what we have to offer.

Second, a successful business district ensures that the Borough does not solely rely on residential

taxation as a source of revenue. As a community we need to recognize the types of

establishments we would like to attract. The successful development of the First Ward correlates

to overall successful and lasting commerce in the Borough because of the amount of Westfield

Avenue and business space in our area. By doing this, we establish a plan that puts less of a

burden on taxpayers while at the same time creating a community we all can enjoy.

Redevelopment

Redevelopment looks to revitalize presently underdeveloped properties with great potential

benefit to surrounding areas. One of the most notable areas in Roselle Park that fits this categoryis the First Ward property formally known as ‘Ford World.’ No longer vacant, this property now

contains one thriving business and a second business will hopefully be established in 2012.

However, the issue of redevelopment is not confined to any single ward or area. The now vacant

Sullivan Chevrolet property is another area in need of revitalization. Because of the size and

central location of this property the notion of redevelopment presents the Borough with great

opportunities to increase rateables and unite citizens around a common cause. A failure to see

potential in underdeveloped areas is truly an opportunity missed. By proactively seeking

solutions in redevelopment matters we do a service for all residents present and future.



PART II – THE PLAN

In order to take-on the issues listed on the previous page successfully, we

must engage in planning. Proper planning lays the groundwork for success

and ensures residents that decisions are well thought out and made with an

attempt to enact long-term solutions.

Establish Appropriate Work Orders

The establishment of adequate work orders is integral to the long term success of our

business district and downtown. When this is done, we will have a sustainable corridor

that will cost the Borough an initial amount of money without having to spend more tax

dollars year after year in band-aid (type) fixes.

We need to understand what types of improvements are sustainable in our area of

Westfield Avenue and Chestnut Street. At that point, we need to make it clear to our Department of Public Works that specific work orders need to be established to ensure

the Borough’s investment in the Westfield Avenue and Chestnut Street corridor is

maintainable for years and not just a 12-month cycle.

By implementing these changes, we will alter the function of Roselle Park ’s main

thoroughfares. Instead of just being a means to an end, these areas will become ends

(destinations) in their own right. This new feel for Roselle Park will provide a welcoming

atmosphere for visitors and potential businesses while also providing residents of the

First Ward with a downtown and Westfield Avenue corridor they can enjoy and be proud

of.

Establish a Citizens’ Advisory Committee

Although not currently enacted, Chapter 40 – Section 112 of the Borough Code allows

for the establishment of a citizens’ committee with the purpose of assisting, advising, and

collaborating with the Municipal Land Use Board.

Over time, ordinances have been added to our Borough Code book, others have been

altered. However, there has been little comprehensive review of the ordinances that make

up our municipal laws. Though borough officials, elected or otherwise, could take on this

task, some may not be able to assess the need for certain ordinances from an objective or

practical standpoint.

By enacting the provision outlined in 40-112 it gives the public a real opportunity to

advise the governing bodies as to what ought to be done while at the same time providing

an idea of what the public is looking for when it comes to the identity of our Borough.

My task as Councilman would be to seek out dedicated individuals who would actively

assist in representing the residents of the First Ward on this committee. This would

provide First Ward residents with effective representation on Council and in advisory

matters.



Verify Confidence in All Actions

One of the most recent actions of the governing body was the approval of the first Special

Improvement District (SID) budget. The SID is charged with the task of promoting

Roselle Park and, more specifically, the area designated in the charter ordinance

established in 2007.

Going forward, the governing body needs to ensure that the SID is meeting its goals. We

need to ensure that this program is highlighting our community as a wonderful place not

only to do business, but to live and visit as well.

If the SID is meeting or exceeding its goals the Borough should look to expand the

program’s boundaries. In this instance, by expanding the program, areas like the First

Ward with a high business concentration stand to benefit and the potential for sustainable

growth increases incredibly. However, in the event the SID waivers in its duties we, as a

community, must decide whether the program is doing more harm than good, and if so,

whether the program should be suspended or eliminated.

Ensure Active Representation

I feel that a good practice is an open and honest distribution of information. As First

Ward Councilman I think it is important to re-establish a quarterly newsletter. This will

keep residents updated on the latest issues discussed within Borough Hall and around the

First Ward. This assures residents that they are being effectively represented.

I also believe that a good practice is for elected officials to be active and visible within

their constituency. Whether this means going to local events or knocking on doors and

talking one-on-one, it’s important to make residents aware that their voices are being

heard.

Though I truly believe that these actions are a good practice I speak only for myself and

to what I would do as First Ward Councilman. Just to note, there are other methods for

distributing information and being an active representative. I do not disdain any member

of the governing body who chooses to conduct the distribution of information differently,

as long as an effort is made.



THE SOCIAL CONTRACT

As I wrote this ‘Social Contract’ my intent was to present ideas neither partisan,

nor preferential in nature. The idea behind this document is to present some of

the issues we face and propose reasonable, common sense solutions.

My purpose as a private citizen and as a Candidate for First Ward Councilman

has been to highlight the bonds that unite us as a community rather than dwell

on the few differences that divide us.

I hope to continue this as Councilman.

The goals established in this plan are to provide the people of the First Ward

with effective representation on Council, a more efficient and responsible

government, and thereby a Roselle Park all residents can fully enjoy.

In closing, I would like to sincerely thank you for reading and considering my

proposal.

Though no small request, I ask that if you agree with my sentiments and the plan

put forth in this document that you enter this agreement with me on

Election Day.

With your faith and trust, and my dedication to providing effective

representation, there is no limit to what we can accomplish.

Respectfully Submitted,

Andrew Casais

the social contract of roselle park

Documents