Saline Twp Treasurer Zink Resigns Due to Death Threats

Other township officials also describe threats, misinformation, and growing tensions

After several months of unrelenting criticism, bordering on abuse by people during citizens comment, township board members responded at their May 13 meeting. In a dramatic conclusion to the meeting Wednesday evening, Treasurer Jennifer Zink tearfully said she was resigning, effective May 29. “I just can’t take it anymore,” Zink said with tears running down her cheeks. “The threats. That I’m going to tar and feather you. I have two little boys at home. I don’t need to deal with this. I have my personal stuff at home to deal with. I don’t need to have my life threatened or told I hope you have a premature death.” Zink ended by saying, “What the hell is wrong with people.”

Zink lost her husband to a sudden heart attack last October and has been carrying on as a single parent, tending to the farm, completing her township duties while struggling with her personal grief. As she choked out the words to her resignation, the packed room was quiet. Her comments were supported by the other board members, repeating that they all have received continuous, vulgar death threats. Trustee Tom Hammond offered to play the threats he has received on his phone.

During board member comments, Clerk Kelly Marion spent several minutes correcting misinformation said during public comment or posted on social media. “If people have evidence of anyone signing NDAs (non-disclosure agreements) or accepting kickback money, bring it forward and make it public,” Marion said.

For the first time in many months, people spoke in support of the board rather than just offering criticism. One citizen talked about the impact of two words, grace vs revenge. Her comments reflected her appreciation of the board’s efforts on behalf of the people. After speaking, as she headed for the exit, there was a confrontation with another woman, after allegedly being told “you suck”. It was another example of an evening where boorish behavior was called out and confronted.