Longtime Middletown Business Administrator Tony Mercantant Retires

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — Anthony "Tony" Mercantante, who was Middletown Township's business administrator for decades, announced this summer he will retire.

Mercantante will retire after more than 40 years working for Middletown Township.

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At their July 28 meeting, the Middletown Township Committee unanimously appointed Timothy Cunningham, Esq. to be the town's new business administrator (BA).

As BA, Cunningham will oversee Middletown's day-to-day municipal operations, direct Township departments, implement the policies established by the Township Committee, and help guide the Township's strategic priorities and long-term vision. Cunnigham's appointment takes effect October 1. Assistant Township Administrator/Township Clerk Heidi Pieluc will serve as acting BA from when Mercantante retires August 31 until Oct. 1.

Cunningham was most recently Business Administrator for the city of Camden, where he oversaw the day-to-day operations of municipal government, managed a budget exceeding $200 million, and provided executive leadership for more than 500 municipal employees.

Before that, Cunningham worked as the director of New Jersey's Division of Local Government Services within the Department of Community Affairs, where he also chaired the Local Finance Board. In that role, he advised and partnered with municipalities and counties across New Jersey on public finance, municipal operations, financial oversight, ethics, financial restructuring and complex bond issuances. He also played a leadership role in the State's Superstorm Sandy recovery efforts, helping communities navigate complex operational and financial challenges.

"Throughout the search process, we were looking for a proven leader with the vision and experience to manage a large municipality while positioning Middletown for continued success," said Mayor Tony Perry. "Tim's extensive background in municipal administration, public finance and executive leadership made him an exceptional choice. We are excited to welcome him to the Middletown team and are confident his leadership will serve our residents well."