Politics & Government

Town's IT Position Eliminated, Webmaster Fired

Duties will be handled by private firm effective Aug. 1.

The Washington Township committee said it could save “substantial” money by outsourcing its website services to a private firm, and in turn relieved Information Technology personnel member Bob Kelly of his duties Wednesday night.

Committeeman Tracy Tobin was tasked earlier this year with looking into potential cost saving measures in the IT department by exploring shared services with surrounding towns, whether taking on their needs or having the township’s handed over.

The committee found a suitor, Scott Gaskill of Mt. Olive–that township’s IT director–who will take on the website duties of Washington Township through his private firm.

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“Based on the economic conditions of the township, the committee is constantly looking at ways to save money,” Mayor Ken Short said. “Based on that, we’re looking to eliminate one position from the IT department. Our objective is to save money and pursue ways of doing that, like outsourcing.”

Tobin said the IT department was no longer a core function of what the township does since police and emergency dispatch had been moved to the county, and Gaskill’s work would be at a significantly lower cost than what Kelly was making in his 35-hour per week job now.

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“At one time we could justify having two IT people,” Committeeman Dave Kennedy said. “I hate to see one person have to leave, but looking down the road, this is the best move for the township.”

Because of particulars within the new contract, the committee was asking Kelly to stay on board until Aug. 1 to make the switch seamless.

Kelly, who had requested the discussion topic be taken out of the work session meeting’s executive session and be handled in front of the public, wasn’t

“I’ve been in public service for 39 years,” said the former Florham Park police officer. “I brought email to this town. I created its website. Ray (Kenny) and I completely switched over the dispatch system to the county in 100 days. I answered every question the township asked of me.  

“But I do not want to sit by and assist in the deconstruction,” Kelly said. “Frankly, I’d rather just go.”

Kelly said he would further discuss the situation with township administrator Debbie Burd, and formal action regarding his position will take place Monday night at the committee’s regular meeting.

Details of Gaskill’s contract were not immediately made available. 

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