Former BTMUA chair comments on new hire

As I am sure you are aware, the Brick Township Municipal Utilities Authority has recently approved the employment of our very own Councilman Michael Thulen's daughter, Kelly Thulen, to an entry-level position with the Brick Township Municipal Utilities Authority. I understand she is qualified for the position and I am sure she is excited about beginning a new adventure.

Councilman Thulen, [who serves as the council's liaison to the BTMUA], along with BTMUA [Chairman] Mr. Patrick Bottazzi have long been public officials actively opposed to the hiring of family members. However, the intent of this letter is not to begrudge her the employment, rather it is a recommendation to be mindful that in the future, the prosecutor's office, or a BTMUA official may accuse you of nepotism or worse, a representative from the BTMUA in charge of hiring prospective employees may have reason to state that the employment was forced on them and not done in compliance with BTMUA hiring practices. Unfortunately, I have experienced this type of behavior and fear Councilman Thulen may be putting himself in a similar position.

Councilman Thulen cannot assume he is above these types of accusations because the BTMUA personnel who have made these claims are still there.

Be mindful, be informed and remain cautious.

Good luck.

Daniel F. Newman Sr.

former BTMUA chairman

former Brick mayor

Brick