Appointments questioned

Cinty Gallagher, Bordentown City
As a resident of Bordentown City I have the luck of living in this wonderful little hamlet that has SO many positive attributes they are hard to name. Now and again though something happens that undermines this positivity.
   I and, judging by last week’s letters page and the attendance at Monday night’s meeting, many of my fellow residents are of the opinion that the recent decision by Mayor James Lynch to not reappoint Mike Hunninghake as chair of the Bordentown City Environmental Commission has definitely undermined a positive thing in our community.
   Many of us attended Monday night’s Commission meeting to express our regret that the mayor has taken action that is not in the best interests of the community.
   But, I am saddened to say that an even greater travesty resulted from Monday night’s meeting. Mayor Lynch was unable or unwilling to hear the public that obviously has concerns or to enter into a discussion about these concerns with the residents he represents. It is my belief that an elected official governs respecting the wishes and desires of the community FOR THE GOOD OF THE COMMUNITY. How can it be good for Bordentown City to remove someone with an undeniable history of success (from both financial and projects completed perspectives) and total commitment to the betterment of the city? Mike’s extensive experience, his respect amongst peers, his ability to access countless resources, his knowledge and energy, are not easily found of volunteers. In my experience managing volunteers, when you have a good productive volunteer you KEEP them!
   I do not understand how a mayor – ANY mayor – can review such qualities and proven success and with good conscience decide not to re-appoint. It cannot be overlooked that Bordentown City is losing an exceptional resource if this decision is allowed to stand.
   Mayor Lynch’s stated reason of wanting ‘new blood’ seems transparent, as the person he appointed as the new chair has served the same length of time as Mike Hunninghake. Also, there are still openings on the Environmental Commission. Mike could have remained and ‘new blood’ could also be brought in. Also, Mike’s experience would have been priceless to train and bring new members up to speed.
   This decision by the Mayor makes no sense. Tossing aside a VALUABLE resource in our small town seems a gross and negligent decision.