Zangari's return to office in March followed the resignation of former Mayor Judith Mehlbaum.
The police department, embattled for years, recently faced another setback with the departure of its officer-in-charge, Jeremy Telanca. Telanca's exit came amidst allegations of fraud unrelated to his law enforcement duties. Furthermore, preceding Telanca's departure, the department grappled with a federal lawsuit filed by another previous officer-in-charge.
Addressing the council and borough residents, Mayor Zangari prioritized community engagement regarding the future of law enforcement in the borough. He introduced a new survey aimed at gauging residents' preferences concerning police services. The survey seeks public input on whether Girardville should maintain its local police force or opt for third-party law enforcement solutions, such as contracting with the State Police. Residents are encouraged to participate by completing the survey at Borough Hall.
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| Girardville Police Department Survey |
Mayor Zangari also confirmed Telanca's complete disassociation from the borough, including the return of all borough-owned equipment.
Under new business, Ger Daley was appointed to support administrative tasks, including evidence management, scheduling, and training, at a rate of $20 per hour for a maximum of 10 hours weekly.
During the public comment portion of the meeting, concerns were raised in regards to potential legal actions against Telanca at the local level. Borough Solicitor Arlen Day clarified that while such actions were not presently pursued, state-level charges remained a possibility. Day stated that it was under their belief to cut all ties with Telanca rather than get sued later or get in involved with other litigation.
Furthermore, Solicitor Day disclosed ongoing federal litigation initiated by former officer-in-charge Fabrizio Bivona against the borough. While details of the lawsuit were not elaborated upon, Solicitor Day expressed confidence in the borough's defense against the allegations.
During the public comment portion of the meeting, concerns were raised in regards to potential legal actions against Telanca at the local level. Borough Solicitor Arlen Day clarified that while such actions were not presently pursued, state-level charges remained a possibility. Day stated that it was under their belief to cut all ties with Telanca rather than get sued later or get in involved with other litigation.
Furthermore, Solicitor Day disclosed ongoing federal litigation initiated by former officer-in-charge Fabrizio Bivona against the borough. While details of the lawsuit were not elaborated upon, Solicitor Day expressed confidence in the borough's defense against the allegations.