Maintaining Safety in Summit a Top Priority, Council Candidate Says

The following letter was provided by Mike Vernotico, candidate for Summit’s Ward 2 Council Seat.

Dear Editor;

Re: Summer of Violent Crimes in the Suburbs

Earlier this summer we were all horrified by the vicious home invasion in Millburn, followed by the recent car hijacking at gunpoint in Chatham.

Actually, this was not the first hijacking of this nature in our area.

Approximately 5 years ago, a young couple with their infant suffered the same fate here in Summit on Morris Avenue, also at gunpoint. On July 5th, an individual was arrested on Broad Street for unlawful possession of weapons.

And most recently, two separate strong robberies in Summit; one on Morris Avenue and one on Passaic Avenue.

These are difficult times.  Many families have had severe economic setbacks.

Fiscal responsibility has never been more important, but neither has safety.   I applaud the Board of Education’s initiative to significantly enhance safety in our schools.   We need to ensure that we meet the requirements necessary for our first responders to keep us safe.  We need to establish priorities.   Wasting tax dollars on “Parking Ambassadors” doesn’t contribute to the quality of live we all expect here in Summit.

I have often said and written about how proud I am of our great Summit Police Department. I attended the 17th Police Youth Academy Graduation (where I spent my birthday), which is a clear indication of their commitment to our community. They care.   Two years ago they honored me by making me an honorary member of the Summit Police’s PBA, the only elected official to ever be so honored by them. Mutual respect is more than gratifying – it is essential in solving problems.

You have my pledge that if you elect me on November 5th  to my former Ward 2 Council Seat, I will work diligently to ensure the needs of our First Responders are met to keep us safe and secure.   This is where our tax dollars are most effective.

Mike Vernotico