TRENTON – Expressing “no confidence” in Mayor Tony Mack’s leadership, four City Council members criticized Mack today for his proposed policing plan and his problems finding qualified cabinet members.
“This, after all, is the capital city of New Jersey, and we have become a laughingstock,” vice-president Marge Caldwell-Wilson said at a press conference this afternoon.
Caldwell-Wilson was joined on the back steps of City Hall by council members George Muschal and Phyllis Holly-Ward, who recited a litany of Mack cabinet members who have been forced out or quit.
“We don’t need this continual revolving door, we need stability,” she said. “These actions are insane.”
Mack's spokeswoman could not immediately be reached for comment.
Councilman Zach Chester was unable to attend the press conference due to a family medical emergency, but provided a written statement supporting his colleagues. Chester said he was especially concerned about the mayor’s plan for public safety, which was presented to him by acting Police Director Chris Doyle Friday.
“After reviewing the plan and speaking with the Trenton Police Department leadership, I have no confidence that the administration’s proposed plan will properly serve the public,” Chester said.
With Chester, the group represents a majority of the seven-member governing body. Caldwell-Wilson said the group would pay much closer attention to the resolutions brought up by the administration.
“So it’s not going to be just pushing through everything that comes before us,” she said.
Asked if she supported the ongoing effort to recall Mack, Caldwell-Wilson said she supported the public’s right to undertake such an action if they feel an official is not serving them. Holly-Ward said Mack should be recalled if there is no other way his administration can turn the city around.
Muschal was more blunt.
“We need a change and we need it now,” he said. “I support the recall 100 percent.”
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Videos recorded and provided by Jim Carlucci:
Update: I just watched the four videos below because I just found the time to, and I have to say, Zach, Phyllis, Marge and George are some of the best Council members this city has seen in a long time. I have your back guys, I am going to try to make tomorrows Council meeting although I will not be live-streaming.
Please join your fellow citizens on Tuesday October 4th, at 5:30pm, 2nd floor of City Hall.
Nothing will be solved, unless we all get involved!!
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