In an explosive email sent last week to all members of Community Board 9 and obtained by The Forum, a longtime board member called on Chairman Ralph Gonzalez to resign immediately.
Gonzalez is already scheduled to formally hand the reins to incoming Chairman Raj Rampershad in a matter of days. But Sam Esposito wants Gonzalez out—now.
The subject of the email: “Demand Ralph Gonzalez RESIGN Immediately abuse of power.”
“Ralph must step down now instead of waiting until the end of the month,” Esposito wrote in the 1,600-word electronic missive. “We must try to protect what is left of the integrity of the board for the remainder of the month.”
Esposito goes on to present what he says is evidence of Gonzalez consistently targeting him personally and “working against CB 9 and the votes we have taken.” Esposito also said he “took a legal action out” against Gonzalez last Thursday.
One of the recurring themes of the email is the recent district manager selection process. Though Lisa Gomes two weeks ago emerged as the new DM—taking over for Mary Ann Carey, who retired last October after more than three decades with the board that represents Woodhaven, Ozone Park, Richmond Hill and Kew Gardens—the result was not without controversy. Allegations of impropriety marred the proceedings, and Esposito has indicated in recent weeks, and in last week’s email, that he believes that Gonzalez had a hand in instigating the turmoil, something the outgoing chairman has consistently denied.
Community Board 9 earlier this month voted in new officers. Raj Rampershad is the new chairman of the board, taking the baton from Ralph Gonzalez, who decided not to run for re-election. J. Richard Smith moved up to 1st vice chairman from 2nd vice chairman, while Joel Kuszai was elected to Smith’s previous post. Ivan Mrakovcic is the new executive secretary.
By Michael V. Cusenza michael@theforumnewsgroup.com
