>May 1, 2010
To: All Ridgewood residents,
As we approach the municipal election for Village Council on May 11th I would like to thank many of you for your support. I have been truly humbled by the outpouring of encouragement before and during my campaign.
As many of you are aware, I was a Ridgewood Councilman from 1998 through 2002. During my tenure, Ridgewood residents benefited from the Library expansion, Graydon Pool and waste management facility upgrades as well as a stabilized tax rate and low debt service. Since then, Ridgewood has failed to recognize the need to control expenses so the residents who have lived here for decades, may continue to enjoy our beloved Village.
As a candidate for Council, I have continued to emphasize that we must transition to a new era of fiscal responsibility. Some might say easier said than done in government, however with a Council who will take that leadership role seriously, that message must clearly be sent to Village management who will initiate a top down approach to restraint. The days of spend and tax is behind us! We must, together, look forward to new behavior.
During the past eight years since I was on the Council, I have continued to be closely involved with Village affairs. I currently serve as a member of the Planning Board, OEM (office of emergency management), Historic Preservation Commission and the Site Plan Committee. Almost daily, I interface with various departments in the Village so I am keenly aware of areas in need of a redefined focus. As your Councilman I will commit to making the changes required to safeguard your personal investment in Ridgewood.
Your vote on May 11th (VOTE LINE # 4) is crucial to the journey into the future for Ridgewood. I humbly ask for your vote.
Tom Riche
