Board approves lump‑sum separation for superintendent amid accusations of collusion and calls for investigation

The Comstock Township board approved a lump‑sum separation agreement for former superintendent Scott Hess on June 15 after intense public comment and extended board debate. Opponents at the meeting repeatedly urged a formal investigation into whether cause for termination existed and argued that paying a no‑cause separation amounted to an improper use of public funds.

Supervisor Martin and others described the legal mechanics of a release for a without‑cause termination: the agreement must include payment of the employee’s remaining contract compensation — salary, car allowance and associated pension contributions — and a mutual release of claims. Attorney Thall, the township’s counsel, explained those contractual and legal constraints to the board.

Several public speakers alleged conflicts of interest and collusion, pointing specifically to prior private contacts between some board members and the superintendent and to a separate matter involving alleged ordinance enforcement related to Trustee Christy Cherry’s property. Citizens referenced figures in the meeting transcript, saying the separation payment would be “about $400,000” or “more than $412,000.” Those figures were cited by commenters; the release agreement language presented to the board described compensation components but the board did not read a single fixed final total into the record during public discussion.

Supervisor Martin moved to authorize an investigation to determine whether termination for cause was warranted before executing the separation agreement; that motion failed on roll call. Trustee Pratt subsequently moved to approve execution of the release agreement with a lump‑sum payout; the motion carried on roll call despite continued objection from residents in the room.

Board discussion split along familiar lines: several board members argued that a prompt settlement would reduce legal exposure and taxpayer costs, while other members and numerous residents urged delay pending investigation and court proceedings. Treasurer Bloomfield publicly advised caution about paying while litigation was pending and suggested escrow as an alternative; however, the majority voted to finalize the lump‑sum payment.

The meeting record shows strong public opposition during the public‑comment period and multiple citizens saying they will pursue court remedies. Attorney Thall indicated the township had been served with a lawsuit and that the matter had been referred to an insurance carrier for coverage consideration; at the time of the meeting there was no injunction on township operations, per counsel’s remarks.

The board’s action authorizes the supervisor, clerk and treasurer to execute the agreed release, as provided in the agreement presented to the board on June 15.