Hoitt and Izzo issue debate challenge to opponents

Stephanie Hoitt and Pete Izzo, Candidates for Rumson Borough Council, issued the following statement:

We would like to invite John Conklin and Sarah Pomphrey to a debate. Residents deserve to hear directly from the candidates themselves.

The League of Women voters kindly invited all four candidates to participate in a moderated virtual forum in advance of the Republican Primary election on June 4th. After agreeing to a date that would work for all parties, our opponents backed out and failed to provide an alternative date after they initially agreed to participate. We believe that if you are seeking a leadership position, you owe it to the voters to make yourself available for every opportunity offered.

This election has brought forth pressing questions that need clear answers from current leadership who are seeking re-election:

• How did Rumson get outmaneuvered by developers on affordable housing?
• Why are long-standing sewage and drainage issues being ignored?
• Why are relationships with other leaders in government not being forged for the benefit of all residents?
• Why do a select few residents make all the decisions in our town’s leadership, leaving the rest of us “on the outside looking in”?

These issues and more should be discussed at a central location in town, on an evening that is not only mutually agreeable, but also accessible to Rumson families. The format should also afford residents ample opportunity to ask questions directly.

We have endeavored to connect with residents on the issues of transparency, communication, and proactive leadership to preserve the culture and traditions of Rumson. Honoring the tenets of our campaign, this debate offers all residents an opportunity to become better informed about all candidates in preparation for the election on June 4th.

Our newly-elected Borough Council members will be stewards of all residents’ trust for the next three years – residents deserve to know more.