On July 8, the Vernon Township Council conducted their biweekly meeting in which it was made known that Mayor Anthony Rossi in a very disturbing, deliberate and sick manner, took it upon himself to remove a memorial to Vernon citizen Jason Rinker, who was tragically killed in a motorcycle accident, from the Vernon Bicycle Pump Track.
Jason was well-known for overcoming struggles and achieving international recognition in riding sports, most notably mountain biking. Thus, it was a fitting tribute to a man who inspired so many others.
This memorial and the flagpole accompanying it was graciously donated and paid for by Jason’s mother, Sally Rinker. The memorial was lovingly placed and bothered no one.
Imagine the heartbreaking distress Mayor Rossi caused Jason’s mother as well as another human being.
Mayor Rossi did not discuss the reasoning for his action at the meeting. To many, his actions were an example of pure visceral hatred and spite, possibly the result of a contentious campaign season in 2023.
I also wonder who counseled him into making this decision.
Perhaps more frightening is the mayor purports to have done a “thorough investigation” in this matter. Really? By what methods and with whom is the question.
And will he demonstrate similar behavior in the future? Will other donations that have been received be affected by his precedent?.
These are fair and valid questions, which the residents should keep in mind. In short, who will be next?
Now one can make a good case that the town council, while also remaining quiet at the meeting, should investigate all aspects of this mayor’s actions and remedy the situation immediately, including disciplinary measures.
Either way, Mayor Anthony Rossi demonstrates a diseased and spiteful thought process and is not capable of being a public official.
Richard Carson
Sussex