The newly empowered Republican majority on the Eatontown Council is blatantly flexing its political muscle to the town’s detriment. By refusing to approve Mayor Gerry Tarantolo’s appointments to six township committees, these members ignored years of bipartisan cooperation and a procedure, which protected committee appointments from being used as political pay-offs.
Led by council President John Schiels, the five Republican council members walk into meetings in agreement, none voicing differing opinions, despite the Sunshine Law prohibiting meeting outside of public view. How have they come to be in agreement in overthrowing a significant precedent if they have not conspired behind the scenes?
By dissolving an intelligent practice that honors volunteerism and is responsible to the public good, these representatives are no better than thugs bent on controlling the neighborhood.
Further, the Schiels gang tried to circumvent procedure in filling committee seats. As the mayor explained in the council workshop, the longtime procedure adhered to by both parties is that committee positions are advertised and anyone in the town interested in sitting on one sends in a letter of request. The mayor and/or council consider the candidates and put forth names for approval. New members generally start as alternates while those with seniority (through reappointment) are considered for committee chairs.
After refusing to reappoint many committee members without explanation, the Schiels gang put forth names of people who have not (as of Jan. 13’s meeting) even sent in the appropriate request letter. They want to demote experienced committee members to alternates and promote inexperienced people above them. For our leadership to dismiss knowledgeable people from important committees shows dangerous ignorance and disrespect. We cannot risk ignorant people taking charge of committees overseeing important projects, such as our environmental committee investigating Fort Monmouth’s underground contamination before we inherit the responsibility and expense.
Schiels and Councilwoman Victoria Rau justified their actions saying the procedure is not “in writing,” while Councilwoman Teresa Forbes berated the mayor for being uncooperative as he stood his ground, refusing to abandon a proven practice to support her self-serving list of candidates.
The public should not stand for this unethical ploy to turn volunteer appointments into political favors. As the adage goes, “All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing.” Come to a meeting and insist on honest government.
Sara Breslow
Eatontown