FORKED RIVER: Barry Bendar has made it clear why he is running for Lacey Township Committee this year—to restore the faith of the residents in their government.

“The Township Committee is totally out of touch with the residents they are supposed to represent,” declares Bendar. “If you are a political boss, campaign contributor, a developer…you get a place at the table—if you are a regular tax-paying resident…you’re out of luck.” Bendar, running as the Green Party candidate in the Republican-stronghold, cites a few examples to support his claims. First example is a recent one involving a proposal to build a 200-plus unit complex on Route 9 (by the CVS Pharmacy and Kearny Bank). Many residents are concerned this could make traveling Route 9 a nightmare. “You’re going to need a helicopter to travel 9,” suggests Bendar. “If you are looking at quality of life as a main criteria, this is not a good idea at all.”

Another item Bendar cites is the flood insurance issues waterfront residents face. Currently, the Lacey waterfront residents are designated a “0” classification—meaning there is no reduced premiums available. Bendar points out in neighboring Berkeley Township, the municipal government worked tirelessly advocating for their waterfront residents to receive discounts on their premiums. “Berkeley Mayor Carmen Amato worked really hard to help his waterfront residents get a break on their flood insurance premiums,” cites Bendar. “I don’t understand how an all-Republican Township Committee in Lacey can sit idly by while the all-Republican Mayor and Council next door is working hard for their taxpayers…shows a huge disconnect.”

The intersection at Lake Barnegat Drive North and Haines Avenue is another issue Bendar brings up. “It’s a dangerous turn…especially if you are trying to turn left from Lake Barnegat onto Haines,” says Bendar. “Residents have been asking for a traffic light there to no avail, but when they connect Railroad Avenue with Lacey Road…it was no problem.” Bendar claims the Committee is easy to dismiss residents when they speak up about safety and quality of life issues like these.

Barry Bendar has worked in Information Technology for over forty years. He and his wife have lived in Forked River for thirty-four years. To learn more about the campaign, please visit their Facebook page at Team Lacey Township.