Homeland Security

All his answers ring so hollow
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Jersey Journal

Dear Editor:
Hey, isn't it comical that Sen. Robert Menendez took the time to write a big letter to The Jersey Journal outlining his ideas on how to secure the United States from terrorists. In his letter, he knocks "the government." But, excuse me, isn't he "the government" he is knocking?

We must ask Mr. Menendez, instead of writing long-winded letters, just what exactly is he doing about terrorists. Ah, but you will get no answer because Menendez's ideas on how to control terrorists are right up there with his ideas on how to control the hazardous commuter vans running through Hudson County. Nada, nil, in other words - nothing !!!

MARSHALL POLIZZI HOBOKEN

Municipal agencies, particularly police, fire and health departments can apply for and receive grants directly from the federal government, and they aren't obligated to report to the county or the state just what they're awarded.

Three years ago, Jersey City received a $10.7 million federal Department of Justice grant to build a new communications system for its police, fire and emergency service workers.

The City Council discussed, at their meeting Wednesday night, hiring a full-time emergency management coordinator for the city.

Presently, the job is part-time. The OEM coordinator is Police Capt. James Fitzsimmons, who also heads internal affairs. He is paid a $10,000 stipend for the extra job. The Deputy OEM coordinator is Joel Mestre, who is also the city's zoning officer. He is paid $5,000 for the additional duty.

It is expected that at the Nov. 14 meeting, the City Council will introduce an ordinance to set the new salary range for the "deputy OEM coordinator" at around $70,000.