For Diane Ciccone
When I accepted the appointment from the council to fill the Honorable Will Anklowitz’s seat I pledged that I would work with the council in a respectful, positive, and progressive manner. I also said that if I could not bring something positive to the council I would not seek reelection. In the past six months I have honored that commitment to the council and residents of West Windsor.
1). I have worked with the council and we have for the first time had a meeting with the administration before the budget preparation to give them our goals and priorities for the 2010 budget.
2). The 2009 budget discussions were already in progress when I was appointed. I was only one of two council members who asked for a zero or flat budget. At my urging, the council has unanimously charged the administration with preparing a zero or flat budget for 2010.
3). I have requested of the township attorney to review our nuisance laws and toughen our laws so that we have legal recourse against owners and developers who do nothing but board up abandoned property.
4). I have worked with council president George Borek to get the county to post weight restrictions signs on Clarksville Road so our police department can issue summonses to overweight vehicles that speed down Clarksville early in the morning and during school hours.
5). I introduced and the council passed a resolution supporting the ballot question for the continuation of state funding for open space preservation.
6). I have continually asked for a timeline for the energy audit for which the council approved funding in the 2009 budget. That energy audit will now be taking place in a matter of weeks.
7). I have requested of the council that we set up committees to develop a plan for green initiatives and a marketing plan to encourage new businesses in the township
8). I have initiated protocols and worked with Borek to find ways to minimize the length of the meetings and enable the council to work more efficiently.
9). I have also had discussions with the council on ways to have greater dialogue with and input from the public.
Since I have been on council, the rancor has decreased. We are now beginning to work on issues of paramount interest to our residents. But there is much more that can and must be done. I have demonstrated that I can get things done and can work with the council and administration on behalf of the residents of West Windsor.
Diane Ciccone
More for Ciccone
On Tuesday, November 3, West Windsor residents will be voting for a Council member to fill the vacancy left by William Anklowitz. I can only vote for one person and that person is Diane Ciccone.
In recent months, having heard both candidates who are running for this seat, I am thoroughly convinced that Diane Ciccone will be the best candidate for this position. I am confident that she will be an outstanding leader who will look out for the best interests of West Windsor residents. George Borek
Council President
21 Wellington Drive
We enthusiastically endorse Diane Ciccone for West Windsor Council. As a Council member, Diane is calling for the Administration to produce a zero cent increase option for the 2010 municipal budget. She supported the Council’s first ever special preliminary budget meeting in September as a way of brainstorming on ideas to rein in spending and increase revenues. Ciccone knows that long-term financial planning is critical to the economic viability and sustainability of the Township. Beautifying Route 571 and bringing in more businesses is also a top priority.
As a member of the Planning Board since 2006, Ciccone has helped promote West Windsor’s new environmental Sustainability Element to the Master Plan. This will direct the Township’s efforts toward “going green” and will save us money in the future on utility bills and transportation costs.
Whether it’s preserving open space, supporting the WW Arts Council, promoting WW Bicycle and Pedestrian Alliance initiatives, or improving our schools, Diane has been actively involved. Already as a Council member, Diane Ciccone has proven she is an independent thinker who takes a critical look at proposals and initiatives. Her team building philosophy will serve our residents well.
Linda Geevers, Kamal Khanna
West Windsor Council
Diane Ciccone has been a dedicated volunteer as a member of the WW Planning Board, also holding leadership positions in school organizations, environmental organizations, and the WW Arts Council.
In her current role as a Council member it has been an honor to serve with her this past spring and watch how her perspective to understand an issue, incorporate citizens’ opinions, and review each topic for the financial implications informs her vote. A vote for Diane on November 3, allows this intelligent, respectful and thoughtful person to continue to represent all of us in West Windsor.
Heidi Kleinman
131 South Mill Road
Past Council Member, 2005-2009
I support Diane Ciccone for West Windsor Councilwoman. Diane supports making West Windsor a more pedestrian and bike-friendly community and believes in marketing West Windsor to attract new green businesses.
But most of all Diane is a mediator and will bring civility and reason to the town council. She will work with the administration and her fellow council members to improve West Windsor’s quality of life, increase commuter parking and improve traffic circulation for autos, bikes, and walkers.
Kathy Brennan
Courtney Drive
Although I enjoy reading letters to the editor when I can, as a stay-at-home mother to three young boys I don’t often write them. Today I am making time because Diane Ciccone is up for election on November 3.
Diane has seemingly limitless energy. When she’s not busy at home or biking to catch the train to her New York law practice you might find her out digging up the garden. Shortly after I was invited to join her little group of Sunday walkers (through the neighborhoods in fair weather; around the track in foul) I found out there is more to it than exercise. One day I’d E-mailed not to wait for me as I was (stuck) home with the kids. Instead of an E-mail reply I heard a knock at the door, Diane literally got us in strollers, sneakers and sweats and out to the track before any polite backing out was possible. We all went for a walk that day and were the better for it.
I have learned a surprising amount about the inner workings of the Arts Council, the Greening of West Windsor, and the Bike and Pedestrian Alliance in our treks. What continually strikes me about these interactions with all sorts of people on many different issues is what doesn’t vary: Diane’s outsize compassion, and her unwavering commitment. You cannot be so many things to so many people because you like to see your name on committee lists, in the newspaper, on ballots even. Diane Ciccone cares about her neighbors and the place where we all live, it’s that simple. This is how small town government should work.
Megan Daily-Scott
Your excellent coverage of the “West Windsor Council Candidates” on page 11 of the October 9 issue of The News allowed me, without a doubt, to select Diane Ciccone as my choice for council. Her service record to the township on so many levels says it all. We also have had the opportunity to see and hear her in action as a councilwoman. Her communication skills are beyond reproach. All the other qualifications and attributes are in your article. Nothing needs to be added. Paul Eland
Coneflower Lane
Diane Ciccone’s articulate and inspiring goals are matched by her steadfast commitment to work on numerous boards and committees in West Windsor, which include the Council, Planning Board, Affordable Housing Committee, Arts Council, Bicycle and Pedestrian Alliance, GroWW, and WW-P School District.
I have seen her leadership skills first hand. Rising above the fray, Diane ponders the weight of her decisions, carefully. Recognizing that both sides have merit in their arguments, one can easily see her draw upon her professional experience, not only as an attorney, but also as an administrative law judge at the New York State Office of Children and Family Services. Clearly, Diane understands that each child and family is of utmost importance, deserving of justice. These professional skills have served, and continue to serve, her well as a member of Council.
Michael Huey
38 Devonshire Drive
Diane Ciccone has a long track record of both experience and success. Professionally, she has been practicing law since 1979, was an Administrative Law Judge for two New York State offices and was a Safe Harbor Mediator. Her education includes Hofstra School of Law, JD, Colgate University, BA and she has served on the Colgate Board of Trustees, 1994-2000.
Diane has been a resident of West Windsor for nine years, is married, and has a daughter presently attending Colgate University. Her community volunteer involvement spans the years of 2002-2009. One of her “more” time intensive volunteer positions has been on the WW Planning Board, 2006-2009, from which she resigned five months ago due to her appointment to the Town Council to fill William Anklowitz’ vacated position, that to which she now seeks election.
On the other hand, the opposition candidate’s imaginary “goals” may be commendable, but what is it he has done as a resident to assist the town’s various volunteer groups and township services in their endeavors? What has his active involvement been to date?
Perhaps if he had volunteered with the West Windsor-Plainsboro School District as Diane Ciccone has, he’d have known that they operate independently of township government, and that he won’t be able to make any changes to the schools as a member of council.
Perhaps if he worked with the township as Diane Ciccone has done as a Planning Board member and volunteer with such groups as WWBPA and FoWWOS, he would know that the township approved a Redevelopment Plan to avoid hodge podge development and the congested roads that come with it.
I am a bit stunned by his implication the township is wasting our money and is endangering the AAA bond rating. Mayor Hseuh won the May, 2009, election on the strength of his management and financial prudence that earned the township the AAA rating in the first place.
Mr. Hersh alludes to a long track record of success, but where is it and what is it?
Janet Lerner
67 Rainflower Lane
Having sat next to Diane Ciccone while serving on the Planning Board and knowing her for several years now, I am looking forward to seeing the progress and results that I know Diane will help generate for the town.
Diane distinguishes herself due to her great mind, ability to see the broader issues while still attending to detail, and her trained way of asking the right questions from everyone involved in the process of managing our town. It is my judgment that experience and a long record of substantial accomplishment will serve the township best at this crucial time.
Robert Loverro
Diane Ciccone’s service on the Council these last few months has provided residents with a preview of the stellar qualities she would bring to the West Windsor Township Council. These qualities run the gamut from listening carefully to all sides of a discussion; asking pertinent questions (even when she may know the answers); thinking through the various opinions and facts put forth; and exhibiting a low-key manner that engenders similar behavior from other Council members.
In the years I have been associated with Diane in a few of her many community activities I have seen her sound judgment; her way of getting to the heart of any matter under consideration; and her always-calm diplomacy that encourages reasoned debate.
Ina Brosseau Marx
101 Claridge Court
In addition to Diane Ciccone’s many local accomplishments, she brings a unique perspective to her council role. Her extensive background in mediation enables Diane to distinguish among the many different positions held by residents on local issues. If you have watched her since April, you have seen that she takes in the facts; does her homework; asks questions; and, then, most importantly, moves on to resolve the matter.
Barbara McCarthy
46 Nestlewood Way
The time has come to complete the transformation from the bickering morass West Windsor Council has found itself over the last several years. It started with election of Kamal Khanna last May. It is time to complete that process by electing Diane Ciccone to West Windsor Council.
Diane brings with her a wealth of experience from her mediation background (could we use a bit of that!); her citizen volunteer experience (Check out her resume at www.dianeciccone.com) , as well as her practical experience as a member of the West Windsor Arts Council and WW Bike-Ped Task Force. The contributions that she has made to the Township demonstrate her hands-on commitment for its sustainable future.
Richard Eland
Courtney Drive
I urge you to vote for Diane Ciccone for West Windsor Council. Her recent addition to the Council has made a positive contribution that has been noticed by all.
As an attorney, Diane understands how to keep our budget spending in check and also supports local townships working together to share services and pool together for greater buying power. Diane believes in attracting green companies to West Windsor to increase our ratables and support more green technologies in our township. I believe she is a Council member who can get things done and does not support “politics as usual.” Nick Schiera
Benjamin Court
