By: Richard L. Smith
In a robust response to a recent report from the State Comptroller's Office of New Jersey, Irvington Township has vocally refuted claims that negatively portray its financial operations.
Musa Malik Business Administrator for the Township of Irvington and legal officials argue that the critique, suggesting mismanagement and a lack of transparency, grossly misrepresents the progress made in recent years under Vauss’ Administration.
The report in question produced by Acting Comptroller Kevin D. Walsh, was obtained by RLS Media and initially based on an examination of financial activities predating 2009, was brought to the Township's attention more than a decade later, at the height of the global pandemic in 2020 and again in 2021.
This timing raised questions among Township officials about the state's seriousness in addressing these issues, considering the prolonged silence and lack of guidance.
According to documents from the report, the operations and financial stewardship of the period before Mayor Vauss took office in 2014 are under scrutiny.
Township officials stress that the flagged issues predate their governance, highlighting a disconnect between the report’s timeframe and their tenure.
Despite this, emails obtained by RLS Media show that Irvington Township Business Administrator Musa Malik and legal officials have not remained idle; correspondence indicates the agency and Township actively working towards rectifying inherited legacy issues, often without direct instruction from state bodies.
A statement released by Irvington Township states that the essence of the Township's argument lies in the progress overlooked by the state's recent review.
Business Administrator Musa Malik noted that the comptroller's report has not only brought past discrepancies into focus but has also introduced new critiques, alleging minimal progress since the 2009 and 2011 audits.
However, documents reveal that of the 21 recommendations made in the 2009 report, only 4 remain, attesting to the systematic improvements over the years which were made by Township officials who were unaware of the State Comptroller’s actions in 2009 and 2011.
Furthermore, the Township disputes the three new issues raised by the comptroller, including concerns over the Chief Financial Officer's certification, the leasing of additional office space, and staff evaluations. 
Officials maintain that these matters have either been resolved or are contested based on approvals received from State licensed staff responsible for ensuring the Township’s activities conform to the law.
Irvington's defense also extends to operational enhancements not directly acknowledged in the comptroller's findings.
The Administration has boasted a complete overhaul of several departmental staff, regular training for new employees on current practices, and adherence to updated policies and procedures that have significantly improved its financial and operational standing.
Documents show that the Township has successfully passed its annual budget with the State of New Jersey's approval for 10 consecutive years, underlining a consistent commitment to fiscal responsibility that contradicts allegations of disarray.
The report cites delays in financial reporting, unapproved expenditures, potential conflicts of interest, and inaccuracies in the Township's financial accounts.
Particularly distressing are the claims of "unidentified expenditures" and issues surrounding the CFO’s practices and qualifications, prompting the Township to review its legal options and seek retractions from media outlets that circulated the contested information.
Irvington Township officials remain steadfast in their dedication to transparency, accountability, and the ongoing improvement of financial management practices.
They question the State’s timeliness and willingness to work with the Township given the documented reduction in findings and recommendations stemming from over a decade ago and continue to emphasize their resolve to address any outstanding issues and make improvements that reflect the Administration's dedication to the welfare and trust of its residents.