I stand as a testament to the transformative power of Freehold, New Jersey. I moved here as a kid from New York and it was in this place that I transitioned into a responsible young man. The wonderful traditions of the town and its perfect population held strong, setting excellent examples for us all. This town - built by the hard work of blue-collar citizens and farmland folk distinctive to Freehold - taught me and, indeed, all of us so much, about respecting our environment and preserving our heritage.

Yet, increasingly, we find this adored area under threat of overpopulation and overbuilding - an issue that risks driving out the very residents who have invested their lives and hard labor into this town. To preserve Freehold as we know it, I submit this petition, for every town person to be involved in the decision-making that affects our community. The request is simple: any new building or development accommodating more than 10 occupancies should be subject to a town-wide vote. Apartment buildings replacing historic buildings and our beautiful Mother Nature should not be a thought. 

Accurate and democratic community participation in urban and environmental planning leads to decisions that are more likely to reflect the public interest and less likely to harm the environment. In fact, according to a report by the American Planning Association, community-based decision-making processes can significantly enhance the quality and acceptance of land-use decisions.

I urge residents of Freehold, NJ to support this petition. Lend your voice to a cause that protects not only your home but the legacy of our ancestors and our shared commitments to preservation. Sign today and stand up for the right to vote on any new development with more than 10 occupancies.