I have decided not to run for reelection. This was a difficult decision and one that I do not make lightly. Being on the Council presents a number of interesting intellectual challenges and I have enjoyed considering and discussing any number of policy issues, particularly those that deal with the future of the Town, rather than the emergency of the moment. I feel fortunate to have the chance to work with Jerry Fried and Marc Dashield and Ira Karasick and the many dedicated Town employees. I am glad to have had the opportunity to speak with so many concerned and smart residents over the past four years. I’ve learned a lot and Id like to think that I have been an effective representative.

On the other hand, being a Council member is frustrating and exhausting. It is really striking how little power a Council member has in our form of government. The only real way to have influence over the direction of government, I believe, is to work so hard that people will listen to what you have to say. That is the approach that I took and I could not be one of those representatives that just attends the meetings and casts votes. It has been incredibly hard to accomplish anything, especially in this economic climate, although I believe if one looks back at this term in a fair way, one will be struck at just how much we did do and find that we leave the Town in a very good position. I am convinced that I can accomplish as much for the Town and myself by working alongside the Town government in the future, rather than within it. And I know this is a cliché, but I am looking forward to having evenings with my family again.

Finally, I must comment on the increasing degradation of public discourse and the drumbeat of negativity that pours out of the Internet. I have a very thick skin, built up over decades, but it still bothered me and I believe it is a factor that keeps good people from wanting to volunteer or run for office. And these complaints, while possibly heartfelt and not merely cynical, do not reflect the reality of what Montclair is. I cannot count the number of times I have spoke with public officials from other communities who hold Montclair out as a ideal or the countless residents who I have spoken with who love this Town and are proud to live here. I think it is important for us all to remember that we live in a unique and wonderful place and to work together to preserve and improve it. I intend to continue to do that in the future.