WATCH: Matawan whistleblower video raises eyebrows about potential misuse of taxpayer funds
Matawan democrats fast-tracked a settlement in hopes of it not affecting them politically in tomorrow's election.
MATAWAN — A whistleblower video obtained by Central Jersey Newswire is raising serious questions about whether borough officials used taxpayer funds to quietly settle a lawsuit just days before a pivotal Election Day.
The video centers on the wrongful termination suit filed by former Borough Administrator Scott Carew. Carew was fired in 2022 and later claimed his dismissal came after he objected to what he believed were improper and excessive legal bills from the borough’s labor counsel. According to public filings, Carew sought a $1.2 million settlement. The borough and its insurer countered near $100,000, and the two sides appeared far apart — until a sudden settlement was reached three days before trial and only 18 days before a control-year election.
The timing is what has residents talking.
The whistleblower’s video includes what appears to be an email from borough attorney Eric Harrison explaining why the agreement was not brought to a public vote at the September 21, 2025 council meeting. The email references concerns from Council President Deanna Gunn — who also serves as vice chair of the Monmouth County Democrats — that the settlement could be “politically weaponized” during campaign season. Critics argue that keeping the settlement from public view may have protected Gunn and boosted Democratic candidates Megan Taraskiewicz and Daniel DeZaio.
The whistleblower’s claims are fueling concern that taxpayer funds may have been deployed to avoid public scrutiny in the final days before voters went to the polls. Some residents are now calling for a full accounting of how and why the deal was reached.
Carew’s underlying allegations were previously reported by the Asbury Park Press, and his lawsuit seeks compensatory and punitive damages, as well as attorney’s fees. Borough officials have not publicly commented on the whistleblower video or the timing of the settlement.
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