A Lesson for NJ

Watching the coverage of the hurricane relief efforts on the Gulf Coast, I've been struck by how difficult it is for government to function even when they are prepared for a catastrophic event. This is a lesson we in New Jersey need to take to heart when speaking about terrorism and the efforts our politicians are making to be prepared for a terror attack.

In recent months the Star Ledger, myself, EnlightenNJ and many others have written about the disbursement of homeland security funds based on political motives or even more disturbing, NJ agencies not even using the money that is available.

More than once I've commented that New Jersey does not have a comprehensive state wide plan for handling a massive terror attack. It just makes sense to inform people where relief centers would be and to preposition food and water in nearby areas. I think if people knew that State officials were thinking of these matters and that the government was prepared, it would go a long way to prevent panic in case of an emergency.