Another look at rezoning might be warranted

Work commitments prevent me from attending Manalapan Township Committee meetings. As a result, I rely on local newspapers to stay on top of things.

As an alternative, I visited a particular local paper's online forum as well as some well known local blogs. I was disgusted by the vitriol that the online material contained. I am all for freedomof speech, but there are a bunch of cowards out there who abuse it, typically, for political gain. As such, I have no problem with former Mayor George Spodak bringing these issues up.

I was not a resident of Manalapan in 1983, so I cannot speak to Mr. Spodak's years in office. I do, however, clearly remember the way the rezoning of the Probasco farm was steamrolled by town leaders. Residents of Manalapan were urged everywhere they looked that this was the panacea for our town.

At the time, I was a volunteer on the township's transportation committee and can recall very one-sided conversations being held on this topic. Anyone who disagreed with the proposal was deemed ignorant and worse. And for what, I ask? As near as I can tell, it's only been for the benefit of well-connected land developers.

One look at empty storefronts in nearby retail centers gives credence to detractors' beliefs that the so-called demand for a super shopping center was never there.

I, therefore, find nothing wrong with Mr. Spodak's call for further review of the rezoning. I only wish it could be done without the political battles that so often permeate Manalapan decision making.

I respect Susan Heckler's knowledge of town history and affairs, as well as the time she has dedicated to bettering Manalapan, but nonetheless, why does she get so defensive when Mr. Spodak speaks?

I say let's hear his input. Like him or not, he did serve his town for three terms. So what if he's been on the sidelines for so long. Maybe he's resurfaced because he's so disgusted with what's happening with this once fine town.

Jim Reinish

Manalapan