I am outraged that the West Milford Township Council plans to turn the mayor’s role into a full-time paid position with a salary range of $90,000 to $135,000.
There are only 45 towns/cities of 500 in New Jersey that have full-time mayors. This is way out of the norm for towns our size.
The mayor of Newark makes $130,000. The population in Newark is 300,000 vs. West Milford at 25,000, not to mention that Newark is a much more complex community.
Turning an elected official’s job into a full-time position with a six-figure salary to do administrative tasks is fiscally irresponsible.
The median household salary in West Milford is about $75,000. How in the world can the Township Council justify this?
This would be a very large salary with benefits and a retirement pension in perpetuity.
The proposed ordinance would also amend the town code to allow the Township Council to decide each year whether the mayor will be full- or part-time. This is alarming - this should be voted on by the people of West Milford.
Our Township Council seems to be only interested in power and money, not what is in the best interests of the people in this community.
Please attend the Township Council meeting on Wednesday, March 20 to make sure your voices are heard!
Laura Slott
Hewitt