West Deptford administrator steps down
Brandon Umba leaves months after Democrats take control of the town.
Citing "frivolous reprimands" and changes in the town's governance that "have left me with no choice," West Deptford's administrator announced Wednesday he will leave the position.
Brandon Umba's exit comes months after Democrats reclaimed control of the town after a brief Republican majority.
Umba's appointment in 2014 quickly became a political issue, with some, including now-Mayor Denice DiCarlo, criticizing the hiring - in part because Umba was a campaign manager for local Republicans. The employment was also blasted in Democratic campaign material last year.
His resignation letter to the committee referenced a "lack of involvement afforded to me regarding meetings that occur between township professionals as well as elected officials," and changes that "caused me to neglect my true passion of serving this community as a volunteer firefighter."
Umba's letter said the town had accomplished much work during his tenure. He will remain with West Deptford until May 1, and has been offered the same position in Lumberton, Burlington County, he said Thursday night. He plans to start that job in May.
"I don't want to put my hometown at a disadvantage," Umba said, largely deferring comment to his resignation letter. "I wish them nothing but success. I hope they can all work together."