The Alternative Press

SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ – A special meeting of the Scotch Plains Council was called for Wednesday evening to “discuss matters of personnel in closed session”.  The meeting was called to order, several questions were answered from the audience and then the Council chamber was cleared to accommodate the closed session.

After an hour and a half behind closed doors, the public was invited back in to hear the reading of Resolution 300-13 that provided for the acceptance of the resignation of the Town Manager Mr. Henry Underhill.

Prior to the vote being taken, Councilman Mickey Marcus took the floor and said that it was a “sad day for Scotch Plains.  I am limited in the remarks that I can say, but I am sorry that this is happening to Mr. Underhill.  It is with regret that his resignation is being tendered and will be accepted by this town.”

Councilman Bo Vastine said “I would like the record to reflect that in the time that Henry Underhill has been here he has endured two mayors, a hurricane, the removal of twelve town providers and the budget process.  His knowledge and demeanor will be sorely missed.  I agree with Councilman Marcus that this is a sad day.”

An official vote was then taken and the resolution was passed four to one, although Councilman Marcus put a caveat of “with regret” onto his “yes” vote.  The meeting was then adjourned without further comment or time for questions.

Joan Papen, a member of the audience and a past mayor of Scotch Plains, commented after the meeting.   “I think we have a state record of going through more municipal managers than any other town in such a short time with four managers in five years.  I think that would make any other qualified manager think twice before applying here.  I don’t know why they did not allow public comment or give any reasons for this decision.”