Writer: Vote ‘above party’ in November and re-elect Mayor Fink

Everyone in Holmdel seems to agree saving open space is good because it stems population growth, thus controlling taxes.

It also protects our rural atmosphere, property values and our drinking water.

Even the old-guard Republicans — historically friendly to developers — proclaim a new mantra of saving what’s left.

Yet, one cannot help feeling skeptical of the old-guard’s latest Township Committee candidate, Pat Impreveduto, because he has never taken part in Holmdel’s very active open space movement.

How can he now justify his bid to lead it?

Fortunately, this movement already has a leader — Impreveduto’s opponent — Mayor Larry Fink, a founding trustee of Friends of Holmdel Open Space.

In a recent front-page article of a statewide daily newspaper, the role of Mayor Fink in Holmdel’s successful open space program was detailed.

His foresight, skills and energy helped obtain millions in state money for open space acquisitions — money which is now in short supply for towns that had less determined leadership.

As a Republican, I feel disenfranchised.

If the old-guard Republicans sincerely wanted to save what’s left, they should have backed former Township Committeeman Russell Dronne.

Dronne is a Republican and a true open space advocate, not a straw man.

But he would have been an obstacle to developers, Realtors, and large landowners.

What they wanted was a straw man.

Saving open space is crucial for stopping skyrocketing school taxes, and the job has to be entrusted to someone with proven commitment and ability.

That’s why Republicans should put Holmdel above party this November and re-elect Larry Fink.

Martin V. Schneider

Holmdel