Mayor Mike Rothman Assumes Acting CFO of Downe Township — Legal or Not?

In a controversial decision drawing growing scrutiny across Downe Township, Mayor Mike Rothman has is said to have assumed the role of Acting Chief Financial Officer (CFO) — a move that residents and municipal experts say may violate New Jersey state law and raise major conflict-of-interest concerns.

The self-appointment gives Rothman direct access to sign township checks, oversee Downe Township financial operations, and control municipal expenditures — powers typically reserved for state-certified financial officers, not elected mayors.

New Jersey Law on CFO Appointments in Municipal Government

Under N.J.S.A. 40A:9-140.10, New Jersey law states that:

“No person shall be appointed or reappointed as a chief financial officer unless they hold a municipal finance officer certificate issued by the Director of the Division of Local Government Services.”

Municipalities are expected to appoint certified CFOs, and any temporary appointments must be formally approved by the Township Committee and recognized by the New Jersey Division of Local Government Services.

Critics argue that Mayor Rothman’s self-appointment as CFO in Downe Township may conflict with these requirements — and that there is no public record of the position being advertised, reviewed, or approved by the proper authorities.

Downe Township Mayor’s Dual Role Raises Ethical and Legal Concerns

By appointing himself to the role of CFO, Rothman now holds executive and financial control over township affairs — a combination many say is not only improper, but dangerous. Without an independent financial officer, there are no checks and balances to prevent mismanagement, fraud, or misappropriation of township funds.

This highly unusual move has left residents asking:

  • Was this self-appointment legally documented or approved by the Township Committee?

  • Did Mayor Rothman notify the New Jersey Division of Local Government Services?

  • Has he signed or authorized checks from the Downe Township municipal account?

  • Is this a violation of state ethics rules for local government officials?

Local government experts warn that the mayor’s actions could potentially draw scrutiny from oversight bodies if found to be in violation of financial control statutes.

Transparency in Downe Township Government Questioned

Calls are mounting for a full investigation into Rothman’s role as acting CFO and whether Downe Township taxpayer funds have been compromised under this arrangement. To date, no official explanation or documentation has been released to the public.

Residents continue to demand:

  • Transparency in financial operations

  • Accountability for possible misuse of authority

  • Immediate compliance with New Jersey municipal finance laws

Why This Matters to Downe Township Taxpayers

The role of CFO is critical for ensuring proper budgetary planning, financial transparency, and legal compliance within any township. When that role is improperly filled — especially by an elected official with direct access to township money — the risks to public trust and financial integrity are profound.

Mayor Rothman has not responded to questions or issued a public statement at the time of publication. As of today, residents of Downe Township, NJ are still waiting for answers. 

Location: Downe, NJ, USA

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