Last week's council meeting had a simple request from the Library Board, that being to add two additional members, bringing the total to nine, which is the limit by law. Mind you, these people were not going to be appointed at that time; it was merely a proposal to add them at a future date.
What followed was past civilized behavior from several councilmen. Mr. Rosone, the most vocal, insisted there be a council liaison to the Library Board! He went on and on about the council not getting the information they wanted; seeing the plans, knowing the cost and even believing the council can control library funds. He was soon corrected on that. The Library Board is a separate body, not controlled by the council.
Mr. Signorino agreed with many of his points, also wanting a council member to be represented. My questions are Why now? Why do you say you all are in favor of the library, but keep putting up roadblocks that only delay the ground breaking? Why was Mr. Rosone so insistent, so vocal, berating the public who disagreed and even nasty at times? He even mentioned the joint committee with the board of education, of which he is a part. That has nothing to do with the new library. A number of speakers made great points, as to why this project needs to begin and move forward.
Mayor Bieri showed all the paperwork, as well as pictures, which all of the council has received. Obviously, like some school children given assignments, these council members did not do their homework and read all the information or they would have known what has been going on, since September! Obviously, they have not taken enough interest to attend any of the public Library Board meetings either. I wonder why?
Despite the mayor explaining all to them once again, they insisted on having a council liaison to the board and Mike Hensley was chosen, although he was as uninformed as the other two councilmen! They also refused to even vote to add two members and tabled this until June. What excuse will they use then?
Why must everything for the benefit of all in West Milford turn into a chaotic nightmare? Answer — self serving, dirty politics, as usual.
It is long overdue to get this started. There is no reason to keep stalling. The board is set to break ground and the people want this begun. Time to stop the political nonsense!
Eleanor Monahan
West Milford