In Sparta, working together works

To the Editor: I am writing on behalf of the seniors who live at Knoll Heights Through the efforts of individuals coming together for the common good, we were able to stop the Post Office from installing cluster boxes, which would seriously challenge our safety, especially in the wintertime. Now we are faced with what seems a “fait accompli” regarding the elimination of the services of the local health department. An ordinance is to be introduced at the next council meeting which proposes transferring the wonderful services now provided locally by the Sparta Health Department to the Sussex County Health Department. The bottom line reasoning is money rather than common sense. The county provides great service. But, why give up the great service provided locally to be swallowed up the great service globally? The answer seems to be cost savings. But, where? We are told that transferring the “mom and pop” services at Sparta to the “Walmart” services at Sussex County will save us taxpayers $17? Will our families and friends who live in Sparta see a $17 reduction in their tax bill? Is anyone talking about the County Assessment for these services which will appear on your next property tax bill? It is connected to the assessed value of your property. Will Sparta residents pay more to help defray the costs of all other twenty-two municipalities served by the County? Become involved and informed. Write to our town officials. Telephone them also. Sincerely, Flo Meyers President, Knoll Heights Village Residents Association (Editor’s note: This is a copy of a letter to Mayor Goldberg and Council Members)