No resolution to dumping allegations

Hardyston — Mountain Road residents who say they continue to experience water quality, noise and odor problems, had their case delayed by legal issues when, on Tuesday, July 1, they had hoped to finally have their day in court. The court date, however, turned out to be a disappointment for the neighbors. Judge John Mulhern removed himself from the proceedings: “In order to avoid conflict of interest or the appearance of conflict of interest.” A document delivered the day of the hearing, detailing the possible conflict, revealed that one of the principals of Northern Sanitation works as a court officer in Stanhope, where Mulhern also serves as a judge. The residents were hoping to have the alleged waste handling and dumping stopped on the basis of violating what they believe to be simple local laws — improper storage of commercial vehicles, running a business in a residential area and improper storage of dumpsters. The four residents attending the hearing were angered by how the situation suddenly changed. None would speak for the record. Prosecutor Anthony DenUyl spoke to them after the hearing. “It would be a waste of time and money to proceed,” he said. The case will be heard in another jurisdiction at a later date. At the heart of the issue is a charge by residents that their street has become a route for trucks loaded with debris en route to a neighboring property.