Dear Editor:
I am responding to the two “Between the Lines” columns by Al Sullivan dated August 16th and August 23rd which allege that I supposedly struck a deal with the law firm representing the Town of Secaucus in an effort to settle my federal harassment suit against Anthony Iacono and Dennis Elwell.
For once and for all, I have never considered making any kind of deal with my political opponents. My wife and I are moving forward with our federal suit and, when it is finally concluded, we are extremely confident the people of Secaucus will be able to judge for themselves who has been telling the truth. Since the beginning of my conflict with Dennis Elwell and his administration, my actions have remained above board. Every step of the way I have remained steadfast in doing the right thing, because for years my family and I have been affected personally and professionally by others who acted immorally and deceitfully.
I initiated this lawsuit because I wanted to fight the injustice done to my family, friends and me. I am running for Mayor because we need to put an end to this kind of government oppression that not only I but other residents of Secaucus have endured. Councilman Gary Jeffas and my running mates, Rob Costantino, Councilman John Bueckner, Bill McKeever, are in full agreement.
The people of Secaucus do not care about political party squabbles. The people care about how their money is spent. The people want to put an end to pay-to-play, end municipal employee intimidation, and repair the damage recently done to our town’s name and reputation. Many Democrats are frustrated by the situation former mayor Elwell left them with. Former Councilman Richard Kane stopped by my home recently and informed me that he withdrew his name from consideration.
Lastly, I ask the people of Secaucus to judge me based on my actions, my many years of service to our community and my concern for our residents, not on rumors and unfounded accusations spread by my political opponents. If I am fortunate enough to be elected I will continue to do as I have always done, try to be as helpful as I can, always respect Secaucus and our residents, and restore honesty, integrity and trust to our government.
Councilman Mike Gonnelli