Washington Township board member faces scrutiny over alleged ethics violations and controversial comments

The Washington Township Public Schools Board of Education convened on January 21, 2025, to address various pressing issues affecting the district. The meeting featured a range of discussions, including concerns about board conduct, legal matters, and the implications of recent comments made by board members.

The session began with a resident raising concerns about potential misconduct among board members, specifically referencing a letter from Dr. Hibbs that highlighted inappropriate comments made by a male board member towards a female administrator. The resident expressed disappointment over the board's handling of the situation and suggested that such behavior should be addressed more seriously.

In response, board member Mr. Serrano attempted to clarify the context of the discussions, asserting that the issues raised were being conflated and that no substantial evidence supported the claims of misconduct. He emphasized that the board had engaged conflict counsel to navigate these matters, particularly in light of upcoming elections.

The conversation shifted as board members addressed allegations of potential indictments related to their conduct. Mr. Ford refuted claims of any legal issues, stating that no indictments had been issued against him or his colleagues. He criticized the spread of misinformation and highlighted the legal ramifications of such accusations.

Board member Carol interjected, stating that misleading comments could further expose the board to legal liability. She reiterated the importance of adhering to legal guidelines provided to the board regarding public comments and discussions.

As the meeting progressed, the board moved to enter executive session to discuss personnel and legal matters, emphasizing that no actions would be taken following the session. The board concluded the public portion of the meeting, thanking attendees for their participation.

Overall, the meeting underscored ongoing tensions within the board regarding conduct and communication, as well as the need for clarity and adherence to legal protocols in addressing sensitive issues. The board's next steps will likely involve continued discussions in executive session to resolve these matters.