As fall is now here, the lawn signs have sprouted indicating it’s time for another round of Common Council elections. While many have been disappointed by the candidates at the national or state level, we are fortunate in Summit to have great candidates willing to serve our town as council members.  

While the political process even at the local level requires the candidates to affiliate with one of the parties, I think most would agree that we and the candidates all want to be able to preserve the special qualities that we love about our town while minimizing tax increases. Beth has forward thinking ideas on how to limit tax increases. As a financial professional, I believe she has the knowledge to make decisions for Summit that will improve on what we have and propel us forward in a better way..  

The world is changing all around us and we need a council that will think beyond just the oversight of day-to-day services and annual budgets. We need leadership that will think about the future and be proactive about how Summit can evolve and grow to always be a top choice for future generations of families to move and live.  

Beth Little has the ability to think outside the box and take a longer term perspective while staying on top of the day to day. She has proven time and again that she will devote her full attention as needed to focus on major issues as they come up. All the candidates are very qualified, but Beth Little has my vote because I know she’ll be able to do more than just maintain what we have. We will all benefit with her voice on council.

Yon Cho

As Mayor of Summit, I am keenly aware that embracing the future is the only way to ensure that we can withstand the challenges of the present. We live in a pivotal time. Communities that take a “do no harm” approach will find themselves falling behind. This is why I am endorsing Beth Little, Marjorie Fox, and Matt Gould for Common Council. These candidates are problem-solvers. They understand our changing economy and they have the skills and creative ideas to unlock its potential.

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In addition, they have the sound judgment that is a keystone to effective governing. They understand the rules of civil society and know that those rules apply to all of us equally. They will be strong collaborators who will demonstrate thoughtful concern for all our residents, not simply those who support their candidacy.  

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I have known Beth Little for over 12 years and have watched her put tremendous effort into everything she does. As a fellow board member of the Summit Educational Foundation, Beth brought her knowledge of the community and the needs of students across the entire spectrum of the district to the board. Her insights were often essential to our decision-making process.

When faced with complex problems, Beth relies upon her prosecutorial skills to research issues and fully inform herself. Once she has the information she needs Beth works tirelessly to solve those issues. She has worked with people from all over town as a board member at The Connection, a leader of the Santa Claus Shop, and a coordinator of sports teams. Beth is an experienced leader in Summit with the judgment and integrity to be an effective leader on Common Council.

Nora G. Radest

It’s been said that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.  Watching how Summit’s Republican controlled Common Council has been operating on that principle, particularly as it pertains to a failure to stabilize property taxes compounded by questionable spending of Summit homeowner’s property tax dollars, is what is driving candidates Marjorie Fox, Matt Gould, and Beth Little to run for Common Council. If you’re looking for fiscally responsible candidates who are concerned about keeping Summit affordable, in part by stabilizing homeowner property taxes and growing our commercial tax base, Fox, Gould and Little are the only choice.

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That is why Jim Bennett’s October 12 letter to TAP is particularly irksome. He states that the Republican candidates for Common Council are magically more capable of stabilizing property taxes while offering little other than Mr. Dietze’s membership on the Board of School estimate to support that claim.  He claims that Fox, Gould, and Little’s record on property tax stabilization is uncertain. Evidently he hasn’t bothered to read their campaign literature beyond picking out one “minor” idea—the creation of a business concierge for downtown, which may already exist, and determines this to be a sign of fiscal malfeasance.  Really? Based on our Common Council spending decisions, it’s the Republican Common Council members who have time and again shown fiscal malfeasance, voting to allocate money to hire consultants for parking studies that bear out what every Summit resident who has ever tried to park downtown between the hours of 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. could tell you is a challenge, or spending on new parking systems (I’ve lost count now how many) that are complicated to use. Of note, Mr. Wattick was the president of the Summit Taxpayers Association —where has he been while Council was voting on these outrageous and often redundant expenditures? 

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Fiscally responsible Democrats? In a word, YES. Each has called out the decision by Common Council to spend $300,000 on cobblestones to pave the Beechwood area business district. A decision that Summit’s downtown business owners are opposed, and our own public works department would attest to the added difficulty in clearing snow from cobble-stoned streets. 

Those who attended the Summit Candidate’s Forum on October 12th heard the candidates address the unfair tax burden on Summit’s residents as it relates to our share of property taxes that go directly to Union County.  This isn’t new and won’t be resolved by attending Union County Freeholder meetings to complain. Wattick’s proposed solution to losing our state and local tax deduction if Trump’s tax reform passes is to pressure Union County to lessen Summit’s tax burden. Good luck with that—where’s their incentive? Mayor Radest has been successful in bringing some of those taxpayer dollars back to Summit in the form of grants from Union County.  Fox, Gould, and Little’s platform calls for actively seeking more funding from Union County. And, like it or not, Union County might feel more favorably toward a Summit Common Council that favors more Democratic representation.

The saying, “All politics is local,” has never been more resonant than what we are witnessing in 2017.  On a local level it’s best to view policy from an “independent” lens and vote for candidates who balance needs vs. wants with an eye toward fiscal responsibility.  For this reason, I am supporting the team of Fox, Gould, and Little for Summit’s Common Council.

Judith Knott

This November 7th Election Day, we will be voting for Beth Little (At-Large), Matt Gould (Ward 1), and encouraging our Ward 2 neighbors to vote for Marjorie Fox.

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These three thoughtful, knowledgeable and accomplished citizen-volunteers represent the best in public service, and are selflessly running to serve Summit for all the right reasons. And, while we might not agree with everything they say - or haven’t said - like “take down those dreadful gates on the DeForest parking lots” (a personal pet peeve!), we do know they will listen to us, to all of us, and that their judgment will be based on sound and fair reasoning.

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They will also be serving with a commitment to preserving the civility that has been a hallmark of our local government, but which we can no longer take for granted. Honesty, transparency, respectful debate, demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusiveness - are all essential to keeping Summit the ‘best small city in America'. We hope you agree.

Please Vote.  See you at the polls where we will be continuing our 45-year tradition of serving as Challengers!

Phyllis and Lew Sank

Red v. Blue. Republican v. Democrat. Just about every one of us associates ourselves with one or the other. On a national level, I typically do too, however, on a local level I believe it doesn’t really apply.

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When I look at who is running for mayor or common council, I think: “Do they have the best interest of Summit at the heart of their agenda?” Beth Little is that candidate that clearly has the best interest of Summit at the heart of her agenda, and not just for some, but for everyone.

Beth is running as a Democrat, but she has made it very clear that she wants to keep Summit affordable for everyone by NOT raising taxes and has laid out a plan to do just that.

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In addition, Beth is committed to keeping our schools strong. Beth has focused on education through most of her volunteer work in Summit.  In fact, I had the opportunity to see Beth’s great work with the Summit Educational Foundation and know that she will bring that experience to common council. It’s no secret that strong schools help raise every resident’s property value no matter your political affiliation.  

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All of Beth’s volunteer work since she moved to Summit, and there has been a lot, has been to improve this wonderful town in a completely selfless manner. I can’t think of a more honest, and capable person who has the utmost integrity to represent Summit families on town council.  

Please join me in voting for Beth Little on Nov. 7th.

Betsy Macpherson

Beth Little is my definitive choice for Summit Common Council, At-Large.

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We met at a community event many years ago and I was immediately drawn to her authenticity and kind smile. When I got to know her better, I realized that smile masked an intensity of strength, intelligence and “gets things done” spirit.

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Beth is fully behind streamlining the process for new businesses looking to open in Summit.  As a new business owner in town, I know firsthand the complexity of permitting rules and regulations in our downtown. These are often a deterrent for prospective owner/operators. Beth’s ideas towards implementing forward-thinking, business-friendly practices will reinvigorate our downtown as well as help current businesses to become more successful.

I admire Beth’s time commitment on behalf of our community, holding leadership roles in organizations such as the Summit Educational Foundation, the Summit Middle School PTO, The Connection, and the Santa Claus Shop, among others. Beth doesn’t just volunteer her time and talents, she contributes valuable insight and information and rolls up her sleeves to get things done.

As a local business owner, as a mother and as a person who cares about the character of the people we elect, I stand behind Beth Little. Beth’s experiences and insights will bring a fresh perspective to this special city we call home.

Sara and Tyler Reeder

We had the privilege of working with Beth Little, Candidate At-Large for Summit Council, during her tenure as a board member and volunteer at The Connection. Ms. Little served on the Board of Trustees at The Connection for more than five years. She served on the Winterfest fundraiser for ten years, and then chaired the Mardi Gras fundraiser.  She served on the Capital Campaign and Personnel Committees. Additionally, as a gymnastics parent at The Connection, she founded the Summies Parent Organization and served as the head of the organization for seven years.

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When Ms. Little dedicates herself to an organization, she is all in. She donates her time, energy and money. She does not casually sit on a board and let others shoulder the workload. She digs in, researches, questions, collaborates and builds. Her background as an attorney served the organization well, both in terms of her critical thinking skills and legal perspective. We have great admiration and gratitude for Ms. Little’s contributions to The Connection.

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A key strength that will serve Ms. Little well on Summit Council is her insistence on financial transparency and clarity. Ms. Little understands the enormous responsibility board members take on to protect the best interests of an organization. Ms. Little analyzed the financial documentation provided at board meetings, and asked for clarification from the Director, the Treasurer and the Finance Committee. Her persistence in seeking financial clarity raised the bar in terms of all board members understanding the organization’s financials better and making more thoughtful financial decisions.

Finally, through her work at The Connection, Ms. Little had the opportunity to gain a deep understanding of some of the underserved communities within Summit. During her time at The Connection, Ms. Little worked to meet the needs of seniors, ESL individuals, working families in need of after school care for their children and disabled individuals.

We are proud to stand behind and support Beth Little for Summit Council, At Large.

Tracy Burkholder, Lori Donohue, Janet Hurley, Tammy McLean and Stacy O’Connor

I had the pleasure of sitting down with candidate Beth Little recently. I have known Beth for years, but from a distance, admiring the countless times I saw her donating her time to charitable causes including The Santa Claus Shop, SEF, The Connection and LCJSMS PTO to name a few. For those that have donated their time to causes, you know it’s a lot of work; extremely rewarding, yet very time consuming.

What I learned speaking with Beth is that her civic duty started in programs that affected her family and community, and from there has now grown into an energetic passion of serving the entire town of Summit.

I relate to Beth’s perspective and vision -- it resonated with me. I believe her voice is needed on Council for balance. I know she will continue to help make this town better, leading by example and hard work.

I urge you to read about what the candidates stand for and use your privileged right to vote. You can’t complain about empty store vacancies and  property taxes unless you vote for change thru efficiency, transparency and original ideas.

On Tuesday November 7, I will not be voting as a Republican or Democrat, but as a concerned Summit resident, and I urge you to do the same.

Katie Darcy

These days, politicians seem to be chock-full of promises for a better future, but it’s become tougher and tougher to figure out who’ll actually “walk the walk.” We hear candidates make campaign promises and share ideas for change, and while many of them sound great, it often begs the question, “But will they follow through?” 

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I can say, without a shadow of a doubt, that if you cast your vote for Beth Little, Summit Council At-Large Candidate, you will be amazed at how she will turn those promises and ideas into action and success for Summit. Beth truly embodies the idea that “volunteering is the ultimate exercise in democracy…when you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in.”  And boy, does Beth vote!

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Are you into a strong school system? So is Beth. She’s been an avid supporter, volunteer and Board member of the Summit Educational Foundation. She’s also served on the PTO of Lincoln-Hubbard and is currently PTO co-President at LCJSMS. Do you care about those in our community who need a hand? So does Beth. She’s volunteered at and/or chaired Summit’s beloved Santa Claus Shop for years. Do you think it’s important to have a place where all in our community feel welcomed and valued? So does Beth. She’s on the Board of Trustees for the Connection for Women and Families. Do you think the prevalence of social media is a challenge for parents? So does Beth. As a former child abuse prosecutor, she offered her expertise at no charge to the elementary school PTOs and gave presentations on Internet safety to parents.

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I have had the opportunity to work with Beth in a variety of situations, and I can tell you first-hand that she is a roll-your-sleeves-up kind of person with a wealth of intelligence, passion, and that all-important can-do attitude.  She'll get my enthusiastic vote on November 7th, and I hope she’ll get yours, too.

Tracy Keegan

I support Beth Little for common council because I admire her passionate advocacy for causes she believes in, her strong analytical skills from her background as a lawyer, her thoughtful attention to a variety of opinions, and perhaps most of all, her huge heart. I am confident that she will bring a fresh perspective to the council as a dedicated leader and a mother of several kids in the Summit schools that will be a clear benefit for Summit. I first met Beth when our then preschool boys were starting in a 2 1/2 year old class. Those boys are now taller than we are and well into their time at Summit High School, so it’s been a while. Through the years, I’ve witnessed Beth's amazingly inspirational attitude about not only her own, but also other people’s kids, always demonstrating a commitment to making our community a better place for all residents and families.  

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I very much appreciate all of the candidates running for office and feel that we are fortunate to have so many qualified, committed people willing to give up their time to serve our town. I strongly endorse Beth Little as the best choice for Summit now and for our future.

Judith McCarthy

Our lives in Summit are built around our children, our families, and our great schools. Beth Little has been working on behalf of all of these since she moved here over 15 years ago. I’ve known her for 10 of those years and strongly endorse her for Summit Council-At-Large.

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Beth has raised her hand time and again to lead and contribute in organizations such as Summit Education Foundation, The Connection, PTO, Summit Sharks Swim Team, Summit Lacrosse Club, and the Santa Claus Shop. At the foundation of our community and with little fanfare, Beth Little has contributed, led, and learned the needs of Summit because her service has stretched across the entire community. Whether your family plays sports, uses The Connection, or attends Summit Public Schools, chances are high that Beth has had a positive impact on you or your child. I’ve worked with Beth and have seen the positive impact of her leadership up close. 

Beth doesn’t like to brag so I’m going to do it for her. She is a thoughtful leader who people want to support because she listens, is knowledgeable, is always prepared, and is a strong advocate for our community. She is highly qualified and my choice for Summit Council-At-Large.

Danny O’Sullivan

Beth Little is an excellent candidate for Summit Council. I am excited to vote for her in November, and here are a few reasons why:

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Beth is passionate. I met her soon after I moved to Summit 9 years ago. It seemed that every way I turned, there she was volunteering, giving her time and energy to so many community causes, and exuding passion for the work. Beth doesn’t just sit on boards, but truly works “in the trenches” at the committee level. Beth does the research and the planning required to get a job done, and done well.

Beth is intelligent. She is a former child abuse prosecutor who uses her legal skills along with her “can do” spirit. When she’s presented with a problem, she does her homework so she can make an informed decision. She synthesizes the issues and works collaboratively with others to present a solution. I have seen this first hand when I served with her on the SEF board and grants committee.

Beth cares about all parts of the Summit community, and that is what makes her a truly special candidate. She has no agenda other than making Summit the best it can be. With Beth on council, I know there will be a thoughtful and well-reasoned voice representing not just me and my family, but all of Summit.

Beth's skills and passion are exactly what Summit needs today. Please join me in voting for Beth Little for Summit Council, At Large, in November.

I have never spoken publicly about local politics. I haven’t put lawn signs in my yard, but I been known to put a magnet on my car for someone I believe in. I haven’t been inspired to really get involved, until now. Until Beth Little decided to run for City Council.

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Why? Because Beth is the real deal and Beth is who you want on your team. I got to know Beth while we were working on the SEF board together.  I have never experienced anyone like her. I have volunteered for several organizations in town and when I worked with Beth, I could see that she was different right away.

When we had to make difficult decisions, she mastered the facts. Her attention to detail outshined everyone else in the room. She listened, asked questions and listened some more. When the rest of us were ready to pack it in and get home to our families, she was still asking questions and trying to understand the problems that needed to be solved. She helped us understand the issues and came up with reasonable solutions. It is clear this woman cares deeply about doing the right thing and gives every issue her full attention; she has great intellect, integrity and an unbelievable work ethic.   

Beth is not doing this for glory or for ego. Beth is not doing this to serve any of her own interests. Beth is doing this because she believes that with all the craziness going on in the world, she can make a positive impact in our town. Change begins at the local level and I know Beth can make Summit even better. Beth is authentic, smart, real and honest. Her voice is the one we want on City Council representing us and everything we value. We’d be lucky to have her.

Jenna Sullivan

As a lifelong Republican, I have only voted for one Democratic candidate in my life. But I’m voting for Beth Little for the At Large seat on Summit’s Common Council and here’s why.

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One Sunday afternoon not long ago, Beth shared the exciting news that she was running for Common Council. But knowing Beth Little for the past ten years, this came as no surprise to me! From the time I met her, Beth has always been a passionate supporter of Summit. Her leadership skills and hands-on community spirit come naturally, making her an excellent candidate for Common Council, At Large. 

Beth will bring a much-needed fresh perspective to address many of the issues affecting our town. Having worked in the trenches on many volunteer committees and key projects as well as serving on the Boards of the Summit Educational Foundation and The Connection, Beth has first-hand experience working with and for a diverse range of people. As a former child abuse prosecutor in her professional life and as a private volunteer for organizations like the Santa Claus Shop, she brings a voice to those who often have no voice.

Local politics are not about party affiliation; local politics are about the ability to work collaboratively with people who have differing opinions to bring about positive change that will benefit the broader community. Beth Little embodies that spirit, and truly wants Summit to be the best town it can be for all of its people. 

Please join me in November and vote for Beth Little, Common Council, At Large.

Victoria Carrigan