I love Paris in the the spring

"When it comes to public records archives, New Jersey will always have "PARIS." At least that's the idea behind the Public Archives and Records Infrastructure Support program, dubbed PARIS, that was established "to boost efficiency, integrity and security of public records systems at the county and municipal level." (Lockwood, Star-Ledger)

Paris is on every one's mind these days. No not 'France' or 'Hilton' ---the Public Archives and Records Infrastructure Support program. It is essential for a town in a democratic society.

Flemington was one of many municipalities to pass a resolution this week asking the Governor to restore funding to the PARIS program. This is a very important program to aid towns in the management of "strategic and emergency records management, preservation, and storage needs of county and municipal governments." It is a no-brainer to support this resolution; the New Jersey State League advocates for all municipalities to let Governor Corzine know what you're thinking. Amazingly enough, though, a Councilman in Flemington actually voted against it.

The grant funds are accrued through fees charged to the public for the recording and filing of various public records at county clerks offices. Last month, the state announced this year's batch of PARIS grants, which totaled $21.8 million to New Jersey's 21 counties and 37 municipalities.

As the storage of information becomes more and more important in these days of electronic filing of financial transactions, property and zoning documentation ----maintenance of such records is essential for towns to be responsive for residents and businesses. If you're a borough clerk, you need to keep careful records. I have taught through the Municipal Clerks Academy, and I know the important work clerks do.

Just some thoughts.