Steven Kark is a resident of Berkeley Heights, NJ

The Devanney Town Council has a notable history of instability in two key areas.

Berkeley Heights Police Department

In June 2024, the Union County Prosecutor’s Office concluded an investigation into the former Chief of Police, uncovering multiple instances of misconduct. The findings revealed that the former Police Chief engaged in inappropriate behavior, including promoting violence, making disparaging remarks, obtaining his Master’s Degree through unethical means, and misusing personnel for personal business ventures. However, allegations related to employment preference and falsifying a police report were not sustained.

Chief Financial Officer Position at Berkeley Heights Township

The position of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) within the Township has seen significant turnover and controversy over recent years. In 2019, Michael Marceu resigned from his post, coinciding with the first year of Mayor Devanney’s tenure. Marceu had been serving full-time since 2012, completing six years before the mayor took office.

Following Marceu’s resignation, Eugenia Poulos was appointed as CFO later that year but left the position in 2022 after three years of service. The Township then relied on an interim CFO until the appointment of Juan Uribe in 2023. However, Uribe resigned in 2024, citing allegations of “relentless harassment” and “concerted efforts to take over vital finance functions with preconceived purposes” by at least one township official. Before his departure, Uribe voiced concerns directly to Councilwoman Poage regarding “oddities” and “last-minute changes” connected to the budget.

In 2024, controversy erupted when the Township Administrator was simultaneously appointed as the interim CFO and the Qualified Purchasing Agent. This dual role raised concerns about conflicts of interest, with only one Council Member publicly questioning the arrangement.

Further scrutiny followed when the Township entered into a Shared Services agreement with the current CFO without adequately addressing public concerns regarding priority to the town, accountability, oversight, and pension obligations. This decision led to continued debate about transparency and governance within the Township’s financial management.

These ongoing issues highlight a pattern of instability and ethical concerns within the Township’s administration, raising critical questions about leadership accountability, key appointments and governance practices.

-Steven Kark

Link to OPRA Response from UCPO (cover letter only)

NJ21st does not profit from its content, does not accept money for campaign or business advertisements and is not run by a corporation. We welcome content from ALL residents, regardless of political affiliation as long as they work or reside in the 21st District and abide by our terms.

Read More From Community Voices

Subscribe to BHCW For Free