David Andreasen for Chatham Borough Council

To the Editor:

I am very disappointed the Chatham Borough Democratic Committee has endorsed candidates for Borough Council who refuse to debate.

With three candidates for two spots in the Democratic primary, the League of Women Voters tried to schedule a debate. Democrat David Andreasen agreed to the proposed dates. The two candidates endorsed by the committee said they were not available. The League then asked for the candidates to submit other availability. David said he would attend any proposed date while the other two candidates ignored the request. The League canceled the debate. Whenever a candidate refuses to participate in a free and open exchange of ideas, it raises red flags.

It wasn’t that long ago Morris County Republicans refused to debate and, rightly so, Democrats decried the move. Now the Chatham Borough Democratic Committee has encouraged the same undemocratic behavior. All candidates for public office should be confident enough to debate, explain their positions and assure voters they can provide the desperately needed leadership the borough needs right now.

David has been a neighbor and friend for 24 years. He’s a thoughtful, methodical, retired engineer who can prioritize his service to the Borough. He has successfully managed budgets significantly larger than the current Borough budget.He did so responsibly and welcoming accountability.He is an independent thinker who will thoroughly evaluate the complex issues affecting the borough and collaborate with other council members. He welcomes engagement from all borough residents. He believes asking questions and proposing alternatives is not divisive or confrontational, but a valid role all citizens should take in an open democracy.

David cares deeply for Chatham Borough and regularly attends various Borough meetings.He takes an active role in issues affecting the community and encourages involvement from others.Like many others in the Borough, he is concerned about unchecked development and its impact. He is concerned about tax breaks provided to developers which force residents to bear a greater burden of school funding. David is someone who will listen to residents and provide his expertise in decision-making, not simply rely on the advice of consultants who aren’t affected by the results of their decisions.

I am voting for David Andreasen in the June primary because he will represent all residents of Chatham Borough in a thoughtful and collaborative manner. I hope other registered Democrats and unaffiliated voters will do the same.

Joe Tolleson
Roosevelt Ave.