Dear Editor:

I am writing to address the recent letter to the editor by Councilman Frank Neglia published on April 22, 2024, under the title “False Information by BOE Member.” While I had reservations about engaging in what could potentially escalate into a back-and-forth exchange, I feel compelled to offer clarification and perspective on the matters raised.

Firstly, I must express my disappointment in the Councilman’s decision to turn his personal feelings towards me into a public vendetta. This behavior is not only unbecoming of an elected official but also sets a poor example for our community, particularly our students, whom we strive to teach about the importance of character and integrity.

Councilman Neglia’s characterization of the events surrounding the Town Council meeting on December 28, 2023, warrants correction. Contrary to his assertions of encountering hostility and facing physical threats, video evidence unequivocally demonstrates his unimpeded access to the PAL building, escorted by a member of the Parsippany D.P.W.  

There is no proof for the claims of a “riot” or any violent disorder as described by the Councilman. The gathering was a peaceful exercise of our constitutional rights, conducted with dignity and respect for democratic principles.

Furthermore, it is disheartening to witness an elected official disparage and discredit the concerns of over 900 taxpaying Parsippany residents, many of whom likely supported his candidacy. As citizens of Parsippany Troy-Hills, we are entitled to the same rights and freedoms as Councilman Neglia, including the freedom to express our opinions and hold our representatives accountable. It is puzzling why the Councilman would object to such an exercise of democratic participation.

Having worked alongside Councilman Neglia for a significant period, particularly in advocating for the interests of our community, I am disappointed by his divisive tone and disregard for factual accuracy displayed in his letter. While our shared efforts to safeguard programs for the school district and oppose damaging policies are commendable, it is imperative that elected officials remain receptive to constructive criticism and divergent viewpoints.

As voters, our expectations extend beyond mere obedience to political allegiances to the Mayor or his administration.  We require leaders who possess the courage to engage in robust discourse, acknowledge dissenting perspectives, and uphold the principles of accountability and transparency. It is incumbent upon us to promote an environment where differing opinions are valued and respected, rather than muted or dismissed.

In conclusion, while I initially supported Councilman Neglia and Mayor Barberio based on their purported vision for Parsippany, recent developments have given rise to concerns regarding their commitment to democratic ideals. We must continue to demand integrity, openness, and flexibility from our elected representatives, lest we risk compromising the very foundation of our democratic institutions.

Timothy P. Berrios

These statements are made in my capacity as a private citizen, and not in my capacity as a board member. These statements are also not representative of the board or its members, and solely represent my own opinions.

Dear Editor:

On April 25th the Parsippany Board of Education met at Parsippany Hills High School to give out numerous awards to our students from our schools for their achievements and after a short recess, returned to conduct their normal business. There were three residents in attendance (including myself) and when the public comment portion of the meeting was opened no one opted to speak. The vote for the final adoption of the 2024-2025 budget of approximately $182 million passed unanimously. This budget stayed within the 2% cap without the need to cut services or programs to compensate the 1500+ staff (600+ of which are our teachers) and their benefits to serve the 7000+ students of the district.

This was a fiscally responsible budget.  The district has a financial audit done every year and for the past six years, it has been a clean audit. This was all through COVID and the recent rise in inflation. I know about this since I served on the Board of Education during that time and the budget for the 2018-2019 school year was $150 million. That is only a $32 million increase or about 20% from that time.

Now there are some who think that there are opportunities where savings can occur and that the budget increases are significantly more than required. Where is it that is expected to be done? Discontinue an award-winning music program? Stop maintenance on one of the fourteen 50+ year old school buildings?   Lay off large numbers of staff, many of whom live in Parsippany as well.

Over 75% of the budget is to pay staff and their benefits, and it is contractual. As a result, it does not allow for the significant cuts some may be proposing. Additionally, these budgets over time have allowed for capital improvements and more recently, an addition under construction at Littleton School, all without requiring a referendum that many other districts in New Jersey have had to do for projects such as door, window, and roof replacements. This is a testament to the fiscally responsible administration of the district.

I encourage you to watch Parsippany’s Video on the Go video “Beyond the Bell, Inside our District: Ep.1 School Budget” which was recently posted. It explains to the administration what goes into crafting this budget.

Matthew DeVitto
Former Parsippany BOE member (2018-2023)
Parsippany