(TRENTON) -Assembly members Shavonda Sumter and Benjie Wimberly (both D-35) on Wednesday called on Gov. Christie to sit down with Speaker Prieto to discuss Atlantic City takeover bill:
Assembly Majority Conference Leader Sumter:
“The bill, as presented, applies excessive force and unnecessary measures that could potentially cripple Atlantic City’s workforce and have a negative impact on the city’s public safety.
“As members of the Assembly, it is our responsibility to protect and aid all of our towns and cities, large and small, throughout New Jersey.
“It is our responsibility to make sure the residents and employees of Atlantic City are given a voice, a vote and the best available options throughout the state takeover process.
“This bill is not the best available option and it would be a disservice to Atlantic City communities and the hardworking families who live in them to approve it in the Assembly.”
Assemblyman Benjie Wimberly:
“We’ve all seen what transpires under a failed takeover. The City of Paterson Board of Education understands how a state takeover without a solid, long-term plan and input from all parties affects a community, its residents, and, especially, its children.
“This bill, with critical amendments, can empower a city and its residents during a difficult time in its history. If posted and passed as-is, it will strip public employees and voters of their rights to have their voice heard in government.”