Angelo DeMaio, John Devlin and Sam Mento say they want to make the annual budget process more transparent for Atlantic County residents.

The three candidates say they want to:

Post the budget on the county Web site as soon as the document is presented by the county executive.

Hold at least three public hearings throughout the county so residents can ask questions and give ideas for budget savings.

"This is the beginning of many constructive ideas that our ticket plans to offer," DeMaio said. "As we stated in our announcement, Atlantic County residents want fresh ideas and solutions to meet the challenges of today's difficult economic times."

"Our plan for transparency in the budget process would allow for greater public input and exchange of ideas," Devlin said. "The taxpayers deserve to know that every effort is made to consider other potential cuts and ideas for stretching their money."

"Other counties have even gone to their employees who administer county programs to collect input on cost savings and efficiencies," Mento said. "We should welcome the input of employees who intricately know the programs they oversee, as well as that of the general public, and make this a prominent part of the budget process."

Atlantic County's budget was approved 8-1 by the Board of Chosen Freeholders on Tuesday. Republicans hold a 6-3 majority on the board.

DeMaio is running for an at-large seat, which is contested countywide. Devlin is seeking the 2nd District seat, which represents Ventnor, Margate, Longport, Somers Point and parts of Atlantic City and Egg Harbor Township. Mento is running for the for 5th District seat, which represents Buena, Buena Vista Township, Corbin City, Egg Harbor City, Estell Manor, Folsom, Hammonton, Mullica Township and parts of Hamilton Township.

E-mail Thomas Barlas:

TBarlas@pressofac.com