BIPARTISANSHIP IS TYPICAL AT THE LOCAL LEVEL
The government of Atlantic Highlands is at an interesting point. For the first time in many years, a council exists where the Mayor sits in the minority. In years past, there have been split councils, but the Mayor either rested in the majority or had the tie breaking vote to fall his or her way.
With that no longer the case, one would expect to see a lot of split votes. But the reality is that most votes will be unanimous with very few decisions falling along party lines. The fact is that most topics on our agendas are not controversial and many of the decisions are about issues that both Republicans and Democrats can agree on. Make no mistake, there will be some issues where political or philosophical differences will occur, but that will be the exception and not the rule.
For instance, a resolution supporting Arbor Day or honoring a local resident for years of service is hardly a partisan issue. Nor is any application for a state grant, when the borough is seeking free money going to stir controversy. Even a change order, or awarding a professional services contract, will pass in a bi partisan matter, because local politicians are practical and most realize that government must continue to function. Like most towns, Atlantic Highlands has a full time administrator that makes sure the borough runs on a day to day basis.
Thus, many of the agenda items are mere formalities that the administrator has discussed and is seeking approval for action. These won’t be decided along party lines because a good administrator will have already explained the pros and cons of each to council members. So, the majority of the council meetings will move fast and see little disagreement. In a sense, there can be less politics on the local level, because our votes are about moving the business of the town forward. Local residents should still come to meetings to watch government in action, but don’t be surprised if you see agenda items sail through smoothly.
