Paul Goldfinger © Fog over Fletcher Lake. Not unlike the fog that often settles in over the Township Committee. ©

By Paul Goldfinger, Editor @Blogfinger.

July 27, 2017:   A front page story in the Coaster today reported on the shake-up at the Neptune Township Police Department which we brought to your attention on Blogfinger 2 days ago. (just scroll down to the piece on “no news, murky news and fake news.”)

The Township has been hiding the truth behind the headline, speaking in double-talk and with murky details.   The Mayor has a talent for speaking on public issues while saying nothing of substance.  Here is some of what was said today via the Coaster:

“Mayor Brantley said that community support for the change to the police department has been ‘tremendous outside the meeting room. Many people feel it’s about time a step like this is taken and this is a move in the right direction.'”

So Mayor, tell us exactly what the “right direction” is.  And also what do you mean regarding “tremendous community support for the change?” How many people in the community have given you a pat on the back regarding this issue, and how do you define “community?”

How about clearing the fog and tell us exactly why you are making this change in civilian leadership over the NTPD?  Don’t you owe clear explanations to the NTPD and to the public? Isn’t it better to stifle speculation with the truth?

The Mayor said, “We are doing what we were elected to do in representing the voters of Neptune.”  Please tell us what were you elected to do regarding the Police Department. You can’t leave this discussion lying on the floor like a dead fish.  Tell the public the truth.

And Mayor, surely you know that Comitteeman McMillan and Director Bascom disapprove of your decision as being potentially harmful to the NTPD.   What do you say regarding the opposition by two  leaders in Neptune Township as well as by citizens who oppose what your Committee and you  have done?

Mayor Brantley:   It’s about time that you and others on the Committee stop the mumbo jumbo and, instead, provide clarity when it comes to important public questions such as this one.

Cast of Kiss Me Kate:

“A troupe of strolling players are we, not stars like L. B. Mayer’s are we,
But just a simple band who roams about the land,
Dispensing plenty of frivolity.
Mere folks who give distraction are we, yes, and give attraction are we, oh shut up, man..”