To the Editor:

The concerns about nepotism in the hiring of individuals to work for the Township could have been avoided if proper procedures were established and adhered to. Government agencies at every level fill positions by advertising in local and area newspapers as well as posting openings internally. To avoid actual or apparent prejudice or favoritism in selection of an individual, written procedures for vetting and selecting applicants must be adhered to.

This does not have to be a lengthy procedure. Its purpose is to ensure that the most qualified person is hired and to provide a record of the proceedings should an applicant challenge the hiring and possibly sue. The cost of one law suit will offset any minor costs involved. Mayor Lempert and Mr. Liverman were wrong in declaring that the hirings were proper. Princeton is not a “mom and pop” operation. In difficult economic times other individuals would probably welcome part-time work to supplement their income. We encourage our new consolidated government to institute and follow policy and procedures which avoid future controversies and improprieties such as this.

Jerry Palin, Sheila Siderman

Bouvant Drive