Mayor's challenges show dishonest behavior

Mayor Jun Choi and his high power "Blood Sport" political consultants are accusing rivals in the Democratic primary of being dishonest with regard to following the law. Isn't it ironic, the exact thing that he accuses others of doing, he himself continues to do.

Since his entry into mayoral politics, Jun Choi has demonstrated his belief that rules apply to everyone but himself. Contrary to the fresh-faced, energetic image he attempts to convey, his thirst for power has raised some serious questions about his ability to run a town. A position that, above all, requires accountability to the people and abiding by the law.

During the 2005 primary, he accepted a $100,000 loan from his sister that lives in California, which he did not disclose until after the election was over (N.J. Election Law Enforcement Commission investigation confirmation dated 8/31/05). That contribution was a blatant violation of the law.

As mayor, he awarded a $250K contract to one of the highest bidders. Yes, one of the highest bidders. At the time, it was reported that the owner of the high bidding firm was a political ally who served on Choi's Economic Advisory Board. The mayor's action, which cost taxpayers tens of thousands of dollars, was ultimately overturned by a judge who referred to the contract award as "absurd and improper." In a recently published article it stated the following: "Jun Choi's recent letter trying to explain away another of his and his crew's dirty pay-to-play schemes is pathetic."

Most recently, in February, a complaint was filed with ELEC (N.J. Election Law Enforcement Commission investigation confirmation dated 3/19/07) when it became known that Jun Choi's mayoral PAC was paying for mailings on behalf of an individual that labeled themselves as a neighborhood liaison. Nowhere on the mailing was it indicated that Mayor Choi's PAC was paying for the postage expenses, as evidenced by the postal permit number. Once again he chooses to deceive the public, and violate the law. As it turns out, this neighborhood liaison person is now a Democratic committee candidate running on the mayor's Democratic slate.

Jun Choi is making a very public effort to eliminate his opposition throughout Edison Township, on the council and in the local Democratic Committee. That is his right. But in exercising his right, he needs to follow the rules. What type of example is this setting for the future politicians in Edison? What type of role model is he for our children? The message he is sending is all wrong. He should be leading by example, keeping his promises and being honest. Don't mislead the public by saying you're inexperienced. You are well educated and your actions are calculating, deceptive and dishonest. Is this the mayor we have to look forward to for the next two years, no loyalty, dishonesty and broken promises. If these are your "Fresh Ideas," the township of Edison is in serious trouble.

Joseph R. Petrucelli

Edison