Cherry Hill Mayor Bernie Platt's Proud Legacy

Cherry Hill Mayor Bernie Platt called me earlier today to tell me that he would not seek re-election this year.
As he enters his last year of public service, the mayor is also thanking everyone who has supported him over the years
By now, the news about Bernie's decision is on the Courier-Post web site and other web sites and probably on the air as well.
But here's a story you may not know: Even though many conjectured that this might be Bernie's last term, the mayor was fully prepared to run again. His love for the town is such that he would probably like nothing more than to continue to serve.
 Service defines this man. And be sure of this: Bernie Platt's service to Cherry Hill was -- and remains -- a labor of love.
His interest in the town, its people and its well-being transcends party politics, personalities, power plays and petty grievances. There was not a time when residences went to him with a concern that he was not available or that he did not try to help.
Bernie is very real. He's a sentimental man -- a man who's comfortable with his own feelings and sentiments.
And his love for Cherry Hill is exceeded only by his love for his family.
So, he has chosen not to make another run so that he can spend more time with his family.
That's fine. Because, Bernie Platt can be very proud of what he's accomplished.
Look at Bernie's record of service: He served for many years on the town council and was mayor from 1979 to 1980, and deputy mayor from 1976 to 1979. He was a Camden County freeholder from 1996 to 1998 and since 2004, he's served as Mayor.
If you want to know what this man's legacy is, just look at the renaissance on the west side of town -- Cherry Hill's gateway. The Garden State Park and Cherry Hill Mall areas have witnessed more than a quarter of a billion dollars in private investment during Bernie's time in office -- and much of this occurred during a so-called economic "downturn." It's astounding.
With Bernie's guidance, Cherry Hill has reinvented itself.
And this is just one aspect of his legacy of service.
Bernie can take pride in the fact that his beloved hometown remains the economic center of South Jersey -- a great place to live, work and enjoy life.
I've known Bernie since he first served in public office. He never deceived me. He kept his word. He cared deeply, worked tirelessly and accomplished greatly while retaining his own sense of dignity and modesty.  That's rare -- and refreshing!
What more could anyone ask of a public figure?
Thanks, Bernie!