Political Newcomer Takes On The Machine

WAYNE, N.J. - March 28, 2016 - PRLog -- This becomes increasingly evident when you look at the tax hikes, heroin epidemic, gun violence, and wasteful spending.

One man seeks to change that.

Steve Arienta is a retired NYPD detective and the Republican Party's candidate for Freeholder. Although new to politics, Arienta doesn't lack for experience or enthusiasm. In fact, he has embraced the criticism of being a newcomer and made it his rallying cry. "I firmly believe that this is quite an advantage for me," states Arienta. "Passaic County has allowed the same names to hold positions for decades. I welcome the fact that I do not have name recognition attached to past failures and disappointments to constituents." But what are these past failures?

Taxes in the Passaic County
One of the issues, leading to increasing friction between the Democrats and Republicans, concerns taxes. Under the 16-year Democratic reign, the Board of Freeholders has consistently raised taxes every year. This, despite the fact, that the 2016 spending plan contained $35 million in surplus funds.

The Passaic County taxes are the highest in the state. This is leading to increasing resentment among the residents who are looking towards reliable alternatives who can fix the Democratic failures - fresh faces, like Arienta. While addressing the issue of the tax hike, Arienta stated, "Our current board is represented in a one sided view. There is no opposition to the out of control spending. No representation for those that are being forced from their homes due to tax increases."

Heroin Epidemic
The drug situation, in the county, has gone from bad to worse over the years. The statistics are shocking. Since 2011, Passaic County has witnessed the biggest percentage increase in deaths by a heroin overdose - a staggering 700 percent. In 2014 alone, there were 835 reported cases of heroin abuse.

That's not it. The increase in drugs and drug-related activities is contributing to the worsening of crime in the county. This includes more burglaries and robberies. Arienta firmly stands in opposition to the failed Democratic policies in this area. If elected, he vows to bring about a visible reduction in the heroin epidemic.

Addressing Education
"I consider education the great equalizer in life" Arienta states. Working as a college professor he has worked to acquire government funding to promote new programs and initiatives that do not burden the taxpayers. Arienta feels each school district in Passaic County should have its own educational sovereignty and will work hand in hand with each Board of Education to get to that place. Arienta plans on heading up a grant writing team to allow the best educational opportunities and programs to our youth without costing the tax payers.

A Ray of Hope for the Residents
Arienta, a decorated detective, has a history of public service. A lead detective in the Operation Ivy League case, he was awarded 2 Meritorious Duty Medals and 13 Excellent Police Duty Medals.  A dedicated teaching professional who has recently been nominated for the New York State Chancellor Award in Execllence in Teaching. Arienta will bring his outstanding record into the field of politics, he faces a perilous road ahead. His political goals of fiscal conservatism, better education and enhanced public safety are supported by many. But the biggest challenge he faces right now is that of recognition.

His opponents are using his perceived lack of recognition as a tool for criticism against him. But Arienta seems unfazed. "Name recognition in a botched government is far worse than a lack of name recognition," he says. "I don't carry a history of failed policies, campaigns or outdated ideologies. The name Arienta represents a new start, a person who will usher in the future because I simply do not embody our past failures." Visit Arienta's campaign website (http://arientaforfreeholder.com/) to learn more or support his run for Freeholder.

His courageous stand for the public interest is truly inspirational. Let's hope for a better future for the county and its residents.