Resident urges Assembly to investigate library RFID plan and alleged misuse of grant funds by outside group

During audience participation on March 6, Karen Lewis raised concerns about library materials and an alleged misuse of borough grant funds by an outside consultant. Lewis asked the Assembly to investigate apparent invoice irregularities tied to a consultant referred to as the "Rose group" and asserted that more than $30,000 of borough money was spent improperly on a focus group.

Lewis also urged the Assembly to consider radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology in libraries to limit minors’ access to material she described as "obscene," saying she asked library staff whether RFID could block minors from checking out adult-section items. "I asked him at one of their meetings if they could possibly put something in place where, children 17 or 16 ... not be able to access obscene books," Lewis said.

Why it matters: The speaker asked for an official review of procurement or grant use and raised a policy proposal (RFID controls) for library materials access. The Assembly recorded the comment; staff or legal review would be required to investigate procurement or invoice concerns.

Clarifying details: Lewis characterized the consultant work and invoice as potentially "illegal" and asked the Assembly to "look into this and do something about it." She did not provide documentary evidence at the microphone; the Assembly did not take immediate action but the comment was entered into the meeting record for possible follow-up.

Next steps: The Assembly may ask staff to review procurement documents, invoices and grant agreements associated with library funding and report back; any formal investigation or audit would require staff time and, if warranted, further legal review.