Concerns over financial transparency took center stage at the Edison Township Council meeting on October 21, 2024, as council members raised questions about the mayor's handling of funds and credit card expenditures.
During the meeting, a councilman highlighted discrepancies in financial records, specifically a $20,000 check that had been issued but not fully accounted for. He pointed out that an additional $725, along with overtime costs for missing manpower, had yet to be reimbursed by the mayor. "I believe that I should be entitled to look at all of our credit card receipts for the month of August," he stated, emphasizing the need for accountability in taxpayer spending.
The councilman expressed concern over the limited access to credit card statements, insisting that all receipts should be reviewed to ensure no inappropriate purchases were made, such as personal items at gas stations. He noted that the mayor and traveling officers do not have direct access to the township's procurement card, which requires council approval for usage.
This discussion underscores the ongoing push for financial oversight within the township, as council members seek to ensure that public funds are managed responsibly. The council's commitment to transparency may lead to further scrutiny of financial practices in the coming weeks.