Public Works Director Honored For 51 Years In Berkeley

BERKELEY, NJ — It's been 51 years, but the director of the Berkeley Township Public Works Department finally is enjoying his retirement.

Mayor Carmen Amato spoke fondly of Steven Seiler, saying he had done an "outstanding job" during Amato's 12 years in office. It was his first year as mayor when Superstorm Sandy hit, and Seiler's leadership was "phenomenal," Amato said.

Amato shared a lighthearted story about how each time he got elected, he told Seiler he couldn't retire yet. Then, when Amato was re-elected for his third term in 2019, Seiler told him, "I know what you're gonna say. I'll do my best," Amato said. And as of Sept. 1, Seiler officially retired, as Amato leaves the mayor office to serve the 9th Legislative District as state senator.

A book commemorating the municipal building's dedication in 1979 featured a young Seiler, then a laborer in the department.

Amato joked that you could tell who Seiler was because "he was the guy who was looking the wrong way."

Now, Seiler will spend time with his family being a "happy grandpa," Amato said.

"In grateful appreciation for 51 years of outstanding service and dedication to Berkeley Township, congratulations," Amato said. "We wish you a very long and happy retirement."