Recently I was interested to learn in this newspaper (May 6, "Growth the Major Issue at Four Seasons Debate") that a candidates’ debate night had transpired on the evening of April 28 at the Four Seasons adult community. Present were the four candidates for office on the Upper Freehold Township Committee. Unfortunately, this event was held behind closed doors and was open only to the residents of the Four Seasons development. Although perfectly legal, such an event would have offered township-wide interest, especially when one considers the issues that were discussed that evening. A small municipality such as ours offers few, if any, opportunities for its residents to witness such significant events.

The primary elections are now less than one month away The outcome of this election will effectively determine the next two township committeemen. Wouldn’t it be informative if the candidates could get together to stage a similar event for the entire community in the very near future? At a time when we search for common ground and inclusiveness on a large number of issues, all township residents should be afforded the opportunity to be heard or at least be informed of the candidates’ views on issues of broad appeal.

Robert Diamond

Upper Freehold Township