Former Council President Ken Balut

PERTH AMBOY – Former Council President Ken Balut was not happy about the City getting another motorcycle. He felt it was a waste of money, especially when the officers have the names imprinted on them.

“They are more for show than for being useful.”

He also questioned if the Mayor was using the police bodyguards or as drivers for personal use. “If that is the case, it should be under the Mayor’s budget.”

He also questioned who are the members of Victory Center LLC. (R-142) which authorizes execution of settlement, agreement for Victory Center LLC re: taxes assessments and PARA escrow balances and other litigation.

Balut wanted to know what was the settlement?

B.A. Fehrenbach said, “It had to do with tax appeals in 2012 (no change) and 2013 ($150,000 maximum reduction). The settlement of PARA was $40,000. There were outstanding pieces of litigation that the City could not take action on. Eddie Trujillo who is the sole member of Victory Center LLC made a payment of $140,000 in back taxes.”

Balut also questioned R-146: Introduction of CY 2014 Budget Public Hearings be held on 4/9/14. “This should be in the Mayor’s budget, if it’s for her security.” Balut also took notice of the Police Officer at the Council Meeting. “We need them on the street – not here at City Hall. I don’t think people attending meetings are threatening.”