Mass resignations in Englishtown protest mayor's actions

More than half of Englishtown's elected officials have resigned in protest against Mayor Daniel Francisco. They accuse him of centralizing power and only wanting council members who will agree with him. The situation escalated after Francisco appointed John Alite, a convicted hitman and mob informant, to the town council. Only one council member remains after recent resignations. Francisco reportedly asked two Republican council members to step down due to a "local incident" he cannot discuss because of a legal issue. Former Councilman William Lewis, one of those who resigned, said he does not know what the issue is. He also mentioned growing tensions over the mayor's plans for the small town. Meaghan Lewis, William's wife, who also resigned, described the environment at meetings as "hostile." She expressed feeling unheard and feared for her and her children's safety due to the mayor's behavior. Meanwhile, William Lewis criticized Francisco for changing since entering politics, accusing him of seeking attention and acting erratically. Another councilman, William Sabin, stated that he could not continue serving under current conditions. He refused to be a "yes man" for the mayor. Sabin's wife, Kimberly, also resigned from her position on the town's Planning and Zoning Board. Englishtown has faced other challenges too, including the arrest of its police chief on shoplifting charges last year. Residents are expected to voice their concerns during a town hall meeting this Friday at 6 p.m. at Borough Hall.