Politics & Government
Stafford and Barnegat Served Subpoenas In Connection with Birdsall Business
Seaside Heights, Lacey, Brick and Ocean County were also served subpoenas
Officials with both Stafford and Barnegat have confirmed recieving subpoenas connected with their business with Birdsall Services Group, the Monmouth County-based engineering firm that has been under investigation by the state.
The subpoena was issued by the State Grand Jury sitting in Trenton and was served on multiple municipalities that transact business with Birdsall Engineering.
Barnegat Mayor Al Cirulli told a Patch reporter today that he has the utmost confidence in Township Engineer John Hess, and the staff at the Barnegat office. Birdsall Engineering has been the Barnegat Township Engineer, along with the municipal water and sewer engineer, for a number of years.
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"I would trust John Hess with my life," Cirulli said, referring to one of Birdsall's engineers who does work with the Township. Township Administrator David Breeden echoed those sentiments in an email to the Patch, noting: "Mr. Hess and his local professional staff have always conducted themselves in a business-like manner and have done an outstanding job in representing the interest of the Township."
According to both Cirulli and Stafford Mayor John Spodofora, the subpoena is for documents and records pertaining to work Birdsall Engineering performed for the towns from 2008 to present day.
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Both mayors noted that they will comply with the subpoenas issued by the state.
All municipalities were given two weeks to accumulate and submit the documentation.
Lacey Township received the subpoena during the afternoon on Wednesday, Aug. 22. The subpoena asks for any and all records relating to Birdsall Engineering, Township Administrator and Municipal Clerk Veronica Laureigh said.
On Wednesday, May 3, state investigators executed a search warrant at the offices of Birdsall Services Group. The exact reason for the investigation is currently unknown.
According to an NJ.com story, Birdsall did more than $28 million in business with towns, counties, the state and other public agencies throughout New Jersey in 2011. The company also donated $129,700 to dozens of Democrats and Republicans last year.
The subpoena orders the requested documents for a state grand jury in Trenton at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 6.
Other municipalities served subpoenas for their work with Birdsall include Seaside Heights and Brick. The Ocean County government also received the same order.
