The trial of a woman suing Atlantic City's mayor for a $5,000 loan has been postponed.
Meredith Godfrey, who the suit describes as having a “close personal relationship” with Mayor Frank Gilliam, claims she lent the mayor the money Aug. 17, to pay an attorney for trademark advice regarding a tourism slogan for Atlantic City.
But in a response Gilliam filed on his own behalf March 29, he “denies that a request was made … to ‘loan’ $5,000.”
He also does not acknowledge claims that Godfrey sent unreturned texts asking for repayment.
Gilliam does say he received a letter from Godfrey’s attorney, making sure to indicate sent “by Republican former Lieutenant Governor, Kim Guadagno,” who is representing Godfrey in the lawsuit.
But Guadagno is no longer representing Godfrey. Michael Testa substituted in April 24, resulting in a request to adjourn the trial to a later date.
It is now set for May 23 before Superior Court Judge Jim McClain, the former Atlantic County prosecutor.
Testa — the Cumberland County Republican chair — also represented one of the men who signed a complaint against Gilliam after a Nov. 11 altercation outside the Haven Nightclub, where Godfrey is director of nightlife entertainment.
Charges against Gilliam in that case were later dropped.
he also said she could not comment on how she got the case, citing attorney-client privilege.
Aulicino was represented by Cumberland County Republican Chair Michael Testa. Guadagno has contributed to Testa’s current run for state Senate.
Godfrey — and possibly the loan — is believed to be at the center of that altercation, which also included Councilman Jeffree Fauntleroy. His pleaded to an impeding traffic charge.
Godfrey is seen in video released of the altercation, including talking to the mayor just outside the club.
The suit makes no mention of the altercation at Haven.
Godfrey is also asking for an additional $5,000 in lawyer fees and filing costs.
BREAKING NOTE: This story was originally published April 17. It has been updated to reflect the change in trial date.
