Assemblyman Scott Rumana SAYS STATE NEEDS TO ASSUME CONTROL OF PASSAIC VALLEY SEWERAGE COMMISSION

Following up on comments he made earlier this week regarding the operation of the Passaic Valley Sewerage Commission (PVSC), Assemblyman Scott Rumana, R-Passaic, Bergen and Essex, said a state takeover of the authority is the most expedient way to address the issues of waste and out-of-control salaries being paid at the authority.

“The outrageous salaries being paid at the PVSC are just one example of excess at the authority,” said Rumana. “The authority’s compensation structure and overhead expenses are areas that deserve immediate attention. The quickest way to tackle this problem and affect change is for the state to assume control of the authority.”

On Tuesday, Rumana had suggested that he was considering introducing such legislation.

Yesterday, Gov. Christie specifically mentioned the salaries earned by the authority’s executive director and chief of staff as examples of earnings that are not commensurate with their responsibilities.

“PVSC ratepayers would be stunned to know that in 2009, with a work force of just under 600, approximately 86 employees were paid in excess of $100,000 annually,” stated Rumana. “Adding to the outrage is the fact that the lowest salary increase for these workers was three and one-half percent, with many receiving increases ranging from five to 10 percent over the prior year. At a time when most people are struggling to survive, that is shameful and is a textbook case which shows a lack of fiscal restraint.”

Rumana said he believes a state takeover is necessary because of the length of time it would take for openings to occur on the board of commissioners that would allow Gov. Christie to make new appointments and change its makeup.

“A new administration was chosen to eliminate this kind of egregious spending,” said Rumana. “Immediate steps need to be taken that correct these excesses. And we are just scratching the surface with this example.”

Rumana acknowledged the invitation made earlier this week by Senator Loretta Weinberg, D-Bergen, for the assemblyman to join her in sponsoring legislation aimed at reforming state authorities. Rumana indicated he was carefully reviewing the senator’s proposals and hoped that addressing issues at state agencies and authorities would be a bipartisan effort.