Dear Editor:
In 2000, Dawn McAdam and I ran for the Secaucus Municipal council opposing the Elwell administration. Now as then, I feel Dawn is quite qualified to assume the position of Councilperson in the First Ward. After reading an interview published in a local newspaper her desire to approach this position with an open mind and that her agenda will be shaped by the residents of her ward, I would only hope she would expand her priorities to include what is best for the entire town.
Mrs. McAdam stated she would review documents at the town hall to see what other research she may have to do. I would offer several issues that could use a fresh pair of eyes and a clear mind. First and foremost, request that the trial against Councilman/Fire Chief Mike Gonnelli be postponed until she can review the previously proposed change to the Fire Department Ordinance by Councilman Jeffas, which would restructure the fire chief responsibilities in the fire department to remove the alleged conflicts. Request meeting with the Town Attorney, Councilman Jeffas and attorneys representing Chief Gonnelli, hearing the pros and cons first hand from all sides, and making a decision as to what makes sense.
The question of having the council meeting televised and presented on Channel 36 was part of my platform in the 2000 municipal elections. As my running mate, Dawn did not have a problem with televising the meetings then. Again, research the issue and do what is the desire of the people of Secaucus.
Certainly, considering one’s ethical standards and taking into consideration the desires of the people of Secaucus when casting an opposing vote from the Democratic position on certain issues may result in a 290 day term as Councilperson. In addition, it will be difficult to compromise one’s values in order to avoid a “Gonnelli like” situation when a member of her family is employed by the town.
Respectfully,
George Broemmer