What should be happening

Mercer county freeholders are looking to consolidate the oversight of the Mercer County Special Services School District and the Mercer County Technical Schools. Other aspects of the district administration would be merged eventually, according to County Executive Brian Hughes. The two districts only have 1270 students combined.

"We believe that over time, these savings will be significant and will set a model of regionalization that other school districts may replicate to combat the ever-growing tax burden we all share," Hughes said. "While this proposal may raise concerns among people who are concerned about change, it is reassuring to know that this model has been successful in Bergen and Gloucester counties."

At the same time, the tiny borough of Hightstown is beginning to discuss consolidating its police activities with the surrounding township of East Windsor.

Acknowledging that the topic is a "hot potato," Councilman (Walter) Sikorski asked if the borough has had any discussions on consolidating some police work with East Windsor. Mayor Bob Patten responded that the borough is always looking at consolidation and not just with East Windsor.

Consolidation! Oh my, it would put a pin in the inflated long-standing principle of Home Rule in Our Fair State, but with spiraling taxes we have no real choice. Kudos to Hughes and Sikorski for being willing to talk about it. One can only hope such cost-saving measures are enacted.