Voters to have say on Nov. 7
BY LARRY HLAVENKA JR.
Staff Writer

The Independence for Howell slate, (l-r) Robert Walsh, Angela Dalton and Mike Howell, are seeking four-year terms on the Howell Township Council.

HOWELL - A campaign among six people seeking election to the Township Council will culminate on Election Day, Nov. 7.

On that date voters will tab three individuals for three four-year terms on the town's governing body. The three seats up for grabs are presently held by Republicans Peter Tobasco and Juan Malave, and independent Robert Walsh. The new terms will run from January through Dec. 31, 2010.

Tobasco and Walsh are seeking re-election; Malave is not seeking another term. His service to Howell will end on Dec. 31.

Mauro R. Raccuglia and Edward J. Skibicki Jr. join Tobasco on the Republican ticket, while Angela Dalton and Michael Howell join Walsh on the Independence for Howell slate.

All six candidates have discussed property taxes as the foremost issue concerning the township, but they have differed on other issues.

Outside of taxes, the Republicans have focused on changing the political culture in town and improving township services and infrastructure. The Independence for Howell ticket has focused on cutting fees that are paid to professionals (i.e. municipal attorneys and engineers) and increasing public participation.

Tobasco believes his slate is ready for the challenges before them, as it was when he was elected four years ago.

"Keeping it affordable to live here and maintaining a high quality of life cries out for strong leadership," he said, which he believes his slate provides.

As far as endorsements are concerned, Tobasco said, "We did not seek union endorsements, but are supported by our government leaders, U.S. Congressman Christopher Smith, state Sen. Robert Singer, State Assembly-man Joseph Malone, state Assemblyman Ronald Dancer and county freeholders."

Walsh said his slate is prepared to serve the town as well.

"The important thing is the stabilization of taxes," Walsh said. "People are being priced out of living in Howell. The 'for sale' signs are enough to make a councilman cry.

"I think the town has a unique opportunity to have an independent slate be the guiding force in government. I am very hopeful the town will elect all three of us," Walsh said.

He said the Independence for Howell ticket has secured endorsements from the local Police Benevolent Association, the Superior Officers Association and the Howell Democratic party.

There are no Democrats running for the council this year.