To the Editor:

Last night we had the privilege of hosting a coffee for local Democrats in our Jugtown neighborhood to meet and talk with Sue Nemeth and Bernie Miller, candidates for Princeton Council. Despite temperatures in single digits, people came from near and far, and our little living room was packed to standing room only. We had a mix of voters who were lifelong residents of Princeton, to new residents of just five months duration. We had folks who were retired; we had young families.

To this gathered assembly Sue Nemeth and Bernie Miller spoke long and eloquently about why they want to serve. Miller, an incumbent with a long and distinguished resume, had much to say about the continuing challenges facing the council during the ongoing consolidation, a process that has been historically successful, but all too often drowned out by infighting on the council, a distraction which has actually cost taxpayers in time and money. That the council has been successful despite a few members still wanting to fight old fights (even to the point of still pitting Borough against Township) is a tribute to Bernie’s steady leadership in tandem with our Mayor Liz Lempert.

Sue Nemeth, who is bravely challenging an incumbent in her own party (not an easy thing to do, witness the recent petty act directed at her at the PCDO), has an equally impressive resume both in her professional life as a community activist, and in public service on countless boards, as deputy mayor of the former Princeton Township and on the PCDO Executive Committee. Hearing her speak on her specialty, financial matters, was illuminating and we both felt that Princeton will be lucky to have her serve on the Council. Sue displayed an impressive grasp of the challenges that lie ahead, real issues that include establishing a mutually beneficial relationship with Princeton University, supporting the police department in their progressive community outreach, and realizing tax savings by keeping an eye on the big picture.

Last night Bernie spoke with old friends who knew him well, and Sue made them her friends and admirers as well. It was a stirring evening, as warm inside as it was cold outside.

James and Constance Camner

Nassau Street