Speak Out!

By Catherine J. Barrier, Former Franklin Township Councilwoman-At-Large Two decades ago, I had the privilege of serving the residents of Franklin Township as their Councilwoman-At-Large (2000-2003), a job I took very seriously. Not interested in playing Party politics as an elected official, I instead had one unwavering desire: to do what I could to help provide the best local government …

By Alex Kharazi, Ph.D. Since October 7 we have been emotionally drained seeing the war in Israel and Gaza and loss of so many innocent lives, especially children and women. Recognizing that Franklin is the second most diverse town in New Jersey, it is even more important for all of us to remember our responsibilities as leaders of the community. …

By Walter Lange. I write to express my deep concern about the decline in our once-thriving Franklin Township. Not long ago, our township proudly held a spot among the top 5 places to live in the United States, a testament to the dedication and effective leadership of former Mayor Brian Levine. However, I have to sadly acknowledge the recent downturn …

By Arnold Schmidt, Somerset. As a long-term resident of Franklin Township, I would like to commend our Mayor and Council members for maintaining a low tax policy in our very high tax state.  In the past eight years I have watched as our preserved open spaces and farmlands (now about 38 percent of our total township land), as well as …

By Alex Grosso. I am writing to encourage the residents of Franklin Township to cast their votes in support of Brian Levine for the Mayor of Franklin Township. Brian’s time as Mayor, over 11 years, followed by his role as a County Commissioner, shows his strong dedication to public service. When Brian was Mayor, Franklin Township earned its place among …

By Phyllis Beals. Despite efforts  to increase awareness of resources in Somerset County to help residents of all ages access mental health and substance abuse treatment services, too often I hear people asking where to turn for help, and where to find a treatment provider, especially one who accepts insurance.   We can do better at all levels to educate our …

By Deputy Mayor Ram Anbarasan. As your Deputy Mayor/Councilman At-Large in Franklin and a fellow resident, I meet many people on various occasions. Unsurprisingly, the major concern on everyone’s mind is the high “Real Estate Taxes” they pay to the Township, followed by the “Rising Assessed Value” of their property. Let me try to offer a simple explanation. It is …

Editor’s Note: This open letter is in response to a letter received by Mayor Kramer from the state Chamber of Commerce president, asking the Mayor to support the Schoolhouse Road B9 warehouses development. Dear Mr. Bracken: I am in receipt of your letter in support of the B9 warehouse project and thank you for reaching out to me. I share …

By Aaron Sapiro. WHAT?!? No more 911? Listen to this.  A couple weeks ago I was feeling ill and I was concerned that it might be a heart attack. I did what I have always been told to do – I – or my wife, actually – dialed 9-1-1 on my behalf. About 15 minutes later the EMTs arrived and …

By Bill Connell. Now that I am a silver haired empty nester I am able resume my hobby of bike riding. My pretentious friend says I am actually a “cyclist” Whhaaat ever!!. I am just trying to make a healthy choice, relieve stress and defer my chance of expiring any time soon.  Ironically cycling is inherently dangerous, especially in NJ.  …