One notable issue at the meeting involved Resolution 24-30, which proposed the suspension without pay of the township’s tax assessor, Pamela Steel. The association of Municipal Tax Assessors of New Jersey, represented by President Kevin Esposito, expressed strong opposition to this resolution. Esposito urged the council to table the resolution, arguing that municipalities lack the legal authority to suspend a tenured assessor without pay, as tax assessors are considered agents of the legislature rather than municipal employees. He warned that proceeding could lead to costly litigation borne by taxpayers.

Pamela Steel, the tax assessor targeted by the resolution, also addressed the council despite her absence due to medical reasons. She highlighted her 30-year tenure and the absence of any professional misconduct. Steel reiterated the advice from her supervisor at the Bergen County Board of Taxation and the association’s attorneys that the council’s proposed action was legally unfounded.

Despite these warnings, the council moved forward with the resolution after a motion to table it failed due to lack of support. The council’s decision to authorize the suspension and petition for Steel’s removal was made on the advice of counsel, although one member expressed dissent, citing legal opinions and concerns over the council’s authority to act.