Mayor disappoints

Becky Free, Bordentown City
At last night’s (5/9/2011) town council meeting several residents spoke up in support of Mike Hunninghake, whom the mayor has decided not to reappoint to the Bordentown Environmental Commission. Several people expressed how much they valued Mike’s work over the past nine years and their disappointment that the city was going to lose his expertise and dedication – at least in an official capacity.
   Initially Mayor Lynch was very gracious and stated that Mike has provided a great service to the city. But as the conversation progressed he made several disingenuous statements. One being that Mike could still volunteer, and while of course this is true, it shows a complete lack of understanding of the situation. It was his second, and more egregious statement, that offended me. At one point, while heatedly defending the fact that he was elected by the residents of Bordentown to serve as mayor, he said the environmental commission would be better off without him. Our mouths dropped wide open. I am still amazed that he would say that – but it reveals his true colors.
   Because in truth – the claim that he wanted to make room for other people to serve is a front. There is still an open space on the Environmental Commission, despite that fact that two new people have already been appointed. And he reappointed someone to the environmental commission who has served just as many years as Mike has.
   So let’s call a spade a spade Mayor Lynch. Last night you stated that “you need people you can work with” on these committees. The translation is that you and Mike had respectful disagreements on occasion, you didn’t like that and you got rid of him. At least be honest. You owe us that.