IN CASE YOU MISSED IT...
Srap the R.S.V.P.
Editorial, Asbury Park Press, January 4, 2008

Someone needs to review the concept of "open public meeting" with Gov. Corzine. He is inviting the public to learn about and comment on his plan to monetize the state's toll roads at meetings in all 21 counties. But he wants to know who is coming in advance — a requirement certain to dampen turnout.

Corzine is asking anyone who wishes to attend the meetings to register by phone or online. The meetings begin Jan. 12 in Essex County. Dates haven't been scheduled yet in Monmouth and Ocean counties. Corzine will unveil details of the plan during his State of the State address Tuesday.

The online registration form requires the registrant's name, town, county and e-mail address. Phone numbers also are requested, but not required. A note on the governor's Web site says: "If you would like to attend you must RSVP."

Why? Are they planning to serve hors d'oeuvres? Assembly Minority Leader Alex DeCroce, R-Morris, said the arrangement looks like a way for the administration to prescreen audiences. It sure does.

Corzine spokeswoman Lilo Stainton said pre-registration is not really mandatory. So why does it say it is on Corzine's Web site? It is sure to discourage some people concerned about the monetization plan from attending. Many people are wary of giving out personal information, especially to a government agency.

Open public meetings should be exactly that: open to the public, without conditions. Anyone should be allowed to step up to the microphone to ask a question or speak, or to just sit and listen. The ground rules should be changed, and the changes should be made clear on the governor's Web site.

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