Another method of accomplishing the same end is by a special act of incorporation for a particular community, as was passed by the Legislature of New Jersey for Plainsboro Township in 1919.
Concerning the organization of this community, Hon. Alva Agee, State Secretary of Agriculture, writes:
"Every voter within its boundaries signed a petition to the legislature for the creation of a new township embracing the territory belonging to the community, and this was granted. The community then met, made a declaration of its purposes and adopted a constitution providing for control of all township and community affairs. It is a return to direct government by the people, and places responsibility upon every individual. It is the old New England town-meeting made effective. Patient study of every detail was given by members of the community."[82]
The declaration of purposes and constitution[83] are so unique that they should be studied by all interested in community government.
"A DECLARATION OF PURPOSES
"We, the residents of Plainsboro Township, New Jersey, declare our purpose to accept all the duties of American citizenship.
We are forming an association to secure all the benefits of community life, and affirm the right of our community to each one's best effort.
We support all individual rights just as far as their use does not harm our fellows.
We agree that the public good is superior to any private gain obtained at the expense of community welfare.
We recognize and acknowledge the gracious influences of practical Christianity in community life.