Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission head's perks up for discussion, chairman says

Toll Bridge Executive Director got a 2011 Ford Taurus, an iPhone 4S and a Dell laptop computer.

Frank McCartney, the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission's former executive director, received a 2011 Ford Taurus as a condition of his contract while employed at the bi-state bridge commission.

In addition to the car, McCartney received an iPhone 4S and a Dell laptop computer, all of which he was able to use on his personal time, according to his most recent contract and DRJTBC spokesman Joe Donnelly.

Commission Chairman David DeGerolamo said the commissioners will look at each aspect of their new director's contract, including perks.

"Going forward, based on the candidate's qualifications, we will structure a contract that is appropriate within the guidelines of transparency," DeGerolamo said.

Donnelly said the car, cellphone and computer remain the commission's property following McCartney's retirement.

The commission has advertised the open position in newspapers across the region, a move praised by state Sen. Michael Doherty, R-Warren/Hunterdon/Somerset.

Jerry Cantrell, president of the nonprofit Common Sense Institute of New Jersey, said the public should not be in the dark when it comes to perks.

"This is an exact example of why we need more transparency," he said.

Cantrell said toll payers should have the opportunity to decide what aspects of the executive director's contract they are comfortable with.

McCartney earned nearly $2 million in roughly a dozen years as head of the commission.

Following his retirement two months ago, the commission has launched a public search for their new executive director.

The new director will earn between $135,000 and $170,000, the commission decided three weeks ago.