Democratic municipal chair blasts GOP officials

The recent conduct and actions at Brick Township council meetings is deplorable. The mayor and four or five council members attack and try to discredit those who disagree with their beliefs at every meeting. They even allow their cronies to speak and make false accusations against Democrats. They seem to think that it is their way or no way. It is a far cry from what they preached when they were running for office. They talked about open and transparent government. This is not what is happening now.

They have attempted to characterize all members of the Democratic leadership as criminals. Being a corrupt politician is not exclusive to Democrats; their last Republican mayor resigned rather than face an indictment. He is the same mayor who appointed Republican Jack Nydam as public works director, possibly the biggest crook in Brick Township history.

The lack of respect for Councilwoman Kathy Russell cannot go unanswered anymore. They have insulted and chastised her for expressing her beliefs. Also, they've allowed the public to do the same in an attempt to embarrass or silence her. They should be ashamed of themselves and are a disgrace to the office they hold. They owe her and the public an apology for their conduct.

The current mayor used to always remind the past mayor he was a guest at council meetings and provided courtesy to him at the end of the meeting for comments. Now the current council president seems to have lost control of the meetings and allows the mayor to speak whenever he wants and for as long as he wants. She should cut him off and only allow comments related to township business.

The political attacks do not belong at council meetings. They belong in campaigns and must be reported to the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission. Using the taxpayers' television station for their political agenda, if not illegal, may be at a minimum, unethical.
Michael A. Blandina
Democratic Municipal
Chairman
Brick