It’s standard for mayors to become state assemblymen, but that’s exactly where the system breaks down. Moving up the political ladder creates a direct conflict of interest. An assemblyman won't hold local departments accountable when those same planning, zoning, and building offices are staffed by the political allies who helped put him in office. This pipeline protects the county culture of keeping residents and non connected builders in the dark. We are left with an insider network where no one wants to rock the boat. Something stinks in Lower Township, and it isn’t low tide.