Debunking ‘Doomsday'

To the editor: As a long time member of the Monroe Town Board (17 years), I would like to address Theresa Budich's remarks. The Town Board has been accused of spot zoning (allowing apartments over businesses). We did (two apartments). It's called affordable housing. We've also been accused of jeopardizing hundreds of acres of open space by not designating them as parks. Residents have been asking for parks to be developed for a long time. We have responded by purchasing several parcels. Right now on West Mombasha we are developing two ball fields and a soccer field. When it's finished, it will be designated as a park. The Save Monroe candidates would like the public to believe that we acquired the land to be used for development. This is the "Doomsday" theme for every issue brought before our board. Save Monroe stands for sarcasm about virtually everything. As a voicer reports combined years of service as 57 years, did she ever consider that along with years of service also comes experience and good judgment as to town decisions? Save Monroe has absolutely no experience. Theresa does have school board experience and look what that has done. Save Monroe asks: "How much time does Monroe have?" Just remember one thing. The Town of Monroe has the second lowest town tax in Orange County. This didn't happen by chance. It came from experience by a fiscally minded board. James Rogers Monroe Town Board