Opinion: The Democratic "Old Guard", Part III

The following is Part III of a series of observations about our city's politics, submitted by John Milardo. Milardo is a retired Middletown City employee of the Parks Department.  He currently serves on the city's Pension Board.  He regularly publishes his opinions in a newsletter entitle "And Justics For All."  This is excerpted from his latest edition.

In Part I, Milardo provided his perspective on the causes and effects of the changeover in the Democratic Town Committee in 2018. He then focused on one of the four candidates, Bill Russo.

In Part II, Milardo provided his perspective on the reasons why Bill Russo became Director without meeting the previous requirements of the job.

In this final installment, Milardo asks whether Russo is using city resources for is own personal benefit, and whether the city is using taxpayer dollars to enrich associates of Russo and Gerry Daley. 
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A director who wants everything squashed that happens in his department.  His motto is “what happens at the yard (Highway Division), stays at the yard!”  Transparent and honest government?  I don’t think so.  So, help you if you make waves.  You’re then placed on his list as “the enemy”, and treated as such.

This from a guy who uses City owned property to make his campaign videos and take photos.  Rules are there to overcome and ignore.

Just like the following Parks Code rule:

§ 214-14 Commercial uses.  A.  The use of City parks, City recreational areas and City beaches for private gain and/or commercial purposes is prohibited….

I believe he’s in violation of the code.  Using city property for your videos, probably while working, is the definition for “private gain”…… a mayoral seat.

Recently, the city bought back their once owned property on Butternut/Thomas Streets from a private commercial business, and Director Russo’s best friend and a close associate of Gerry Daley’s.  That price was around $30,000 for the land when the city sold it.  Now we are buying the same land and a garage with a price tag to the public of -- $435,000.  And it was a sweetheart deal.  The owner of the site is able to lease back the building from the city for $1.  Supposedly, Director Russo’s department will use the site once it’s available and vacant.  Currently, no one knows when that will be.

Apparently, conflict of interest isn’t in his vocabulary.

Because Bill is running for mayor, no one’s request for a favor is being ignored.  I understand that he is ordering his department to perform work on private property off of Mile Lane.  Anything for a vote on the taxpayer’s dime.

Just look at where his campaign money is coming from.  The pay to play network of the companies, consultants, vendors and contractors who do business with his department.  Those on the list will be taken care of, not the “regular” taxpayer.

Mayor Drew touts what a great administrator Bill is.  If that’s the case, why then are there still unfinished roads and road bond money dating back to 2005?  Between 2005 through 2013, he has $3,446,537 of unspent road repair monies in existing Bonds.  Bond debt we paid for and are still paying for.  This does not include 2018 unfinished road work of $15,748,006.  Good administrator?  I say no!  Finish ALL the road work please!

Two rumors; 

First there is one which has Russo appointing Dan Drew as the next Public Works director if Bill becomes mayor.  Drew is about as qualified as the present director.

The second rumor is that if Russo does become mayor, his cohorts will fight for him not only to collect the mayor’s salary, but also his pension at the same time.  Currently, the City of Middletown Pension Plan does not allow for double dipping, as the mayor position is considered to be an employee and exempt from collecting both at the same time.  Mr. Russo would have his wages reduced from $150,000 per year to $80,000+ if he becomes the mayor. 

Do your homework and elect the best person to lead our city into the next decade.  It isn’t Bill Russo.

In Brotherhood and Sisterhood.  Stay strong, stay involved, seek the truth!
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Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this newsletter reflect the opinion and view of the author and should not be construed as fact of advice.  The author is a lifelong Middletown resident and taxpayer, and is sharing his opinion as such.  The opinion and commentary do not reflect of any political party, organization, or citizen group.  This newsletter reflects commentary and opinions which the author wishes to share with his friends.