Road chief demands end to board oversight

Highway Commissioner Jason Diaz cited a likely $100,000 expense for legal fees during a Monday township board meeting, marking the cost of a dispute with local officials. The figure represents taxpayer dollars spent on counsel since Diaz was first elected last year. He used the number to argue that the conflict has drained resources meant for road maintenance.

Diaz addressed the board just minutes into their monthly session. He stated that the days of board interference in his operation of the township road district must end. He pointed to recent Election Night results, where voters prevented the dissolution of the road district and the elimination of his post. "The voters have spoken," Diaz said.

The commissioner told Supervisor Jeff Umphrey and the four board members that he must be allowed to complete his duties without continued interference. Diaz said he remains open to questions and suggestions from the group. "I’m asking you all just let me do my job," he said. "If you don’t like the authority my position has, that’s from the state legislature. Harassing me about my job has to stop."

Umphrey responded by saying the board would move forward with its responsibilities. "We turn the page and we move on," Umphrey said. He noted that the board has placed a hold on some road district bills while seeking more information. He confirmed that the board would continue to monitor money and employees but would pay legitimate bills. "As long as these are (legitimate) bills, we are fine," he said.

Residents also questioned the board about the future of Assessor Doug Anderson. Anderson recently announced his retirement at the end of the year. His announcement followed a day after Diaz released a voicemail containing expletives that Anderson had mistakenly left on a township-issued phone. Anderson has not commented on the incident. Umphrey said three to four people have submitted applications for the role.

The board has 60 days from Anderson’s last day to fill the vacancy with an interim assessor. The position carries an annual salary of $88,580 and requires professional certification. Umphrey said the next full election for the post will not occur until 2029. Diaz previously stated that Anderson’s tenure should have ended immediately rather than at year’s end. A resident, Jeanne Balber, agreed with Diaz, stating that Anderson should have been removed right away.

After the meeting, Diaz reiterated his desire for a cooperative working relationship. "I don’t want chaos," he said. "These meetings should be boring. I just want to do my job. I’ve never been given a chance." Umphrey maintained that the board would not back away from its duties, stating that questions regarding funds and staff would continue.