Today I spoke with Mayor Stephanie Scott concerning the issue of Darsie Culbeck’s appearance of a conflict of interest. I was stunned to learn the borough’s legal counsel had not been conferred with in this matter. She indicated that she will now seek legal counsel about this.
Manager Mark Earnest should have, at the least, gotten a legal opinion before he came to the conclusion that there was not the appearance of a conflict of interest. He is not qualified to make that determination. His judgment and actions are a liability to the borough. He is a master of stonewalling the truth, as evidenced by his handling of the early complaints against former police chief Gary Lowe.
In my conversation with Mayor Scott, I learned that the personnel committee is to meet at 1 p.m. on Monday, June 10 in the assembly chambers. They will be discussing the specific terms of Earnest’s extended contract, including compensation and benefits. The committee needs to give advance notice so the general public can give their input prior to a decision being made behind closed doors. I know I will voice my concerns.

Dave Kammerer