FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 8, 2009 

Money – consumer tips and public finance - are TV topics

FREEHOLD – “Monmouth In Focus,” the county’s monthly televised program, is on the air this May with a look at the county’s efforts to help residents be better consumers and to help save the county money in the financing of long-term projects.

“This show gives residents an overview of how the county leverages its Triple A bond rating and overall conservative fiscal approach to build and maintain roads, purchase equipment and preserve farmland and open space,” Freeholder Robert D. Clifton said.  “The Improvement Authority seeks responsible alternatives to traditional public finance methods and saves Monmouth County taxpayers money – in fact, their efforts have save tens of millions of dollars in their first 23 years of existence.”

“The county’s Consumer Affairs office has a wealth of information and tools to help residents make smart choices in the marketplace,” said Freeholder Lillian G. Burry, liaison to the Department of Consumer Affairs. “In times like these, information is one commodity that retains its value. The department has the resources and tools that people can use to recognize a rip-off, sniff out a scam, and make smart choices for today’s market. 

“The county’s Consumer Affairs office enforces consumer laws and helps people whether violations are present or not,” Burry said. “Since the Department of Consumer Affairs was established in 1977, it has handled more than 50,000 complaints and resolved disputes, resulting in savings to consumers of more than $11.5 million dollars.”

The show is a half-hour program with two, 12-minute segments. Each segment features a different aspect of county government. Shows that aired previously have looked at the county library system, parks, bridges and roads, Sheriff’s Office, Human Services, Reclamation Center, and County Clerk and Surrogate’s offices. All shows may still be viewed on the county’s Web site at www.visitmonmouth.com.

“Monmouth In Focus” is a televised companion to the county newsletter of the same name. Launched in February 2007, the show is produced at Brookdale Community College, Lincroft, with the assistance of students enrolled in Brookdale’s television production classes.

Monmouth In Focus airs on both the Comcast and Cablevision local access channels, Brookdale Television and municipal public access channels in Howell, Freehold Township, Middletown, Millstone and Ocean Township.  Check with your local access provider for the dates and times.

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