Politics & Government

Geffken Resigns From Farmingdale Council

Cites health concerns for resignation

Farmingdale Borough Councilman Richard Geffken has resigned from the council after only a few months of service according to a press release from the Farmingdale Democratic Club posted on their Facebook page

Farmingdale Democratic Chairman Jan Zientek said Geffken resigned citing "health concerns." Zientek added, "It is unfortunate that Rick is unable to complete his term because he has accomplished so much in his short time on the council."

Geffken was the first council member sworn in following the majority of the former members resigning this past summer. Zientek said Geffken, fellow council member Carly Immen and borough resident Beau Byrtus played a large part in the council establishing a new Recreation Commission at their meeting this past Tuesday. "Under Rick's and Carly's leadership the Council unanimously passed an ordinance establishing the commission."

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Following Councilman Geffken's resignation the Farmingdale Democratic Committee provided the council with three names for his possible replacement. "The committee feels confident, regardless of who the council selects to replace him, they will be able to continue to meet the high standards set by Mr. Geffken," Zientek said. "We have great confidence in our Democratic replacement candidates. In submitting the names, I have requested that the council act swiftly to name the replacement so that the residents of Farmingdale are given what they voted for- full council membership."

Zientek said he hoped the council would move ahead quickly with naming Geffken's replacement. "We hope not to see a council vacancy at any meetings due to Mr. Geffken's unexpected departure and expect that the council will not play politics with this selection."

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Farmingdale Jay Morgan said the borough will continue its regular operations following Geffken's resignation. The mayor said it will be up to the council to decide whether to fill the councilman's seat at the February 19 meeting. 


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