Amoruso Named Toms River Business Administrator

TOMS RIVER, NJ —Lou Amoruso, who has been serving as acting Toms River business administrator since June, has been appointed to the post full-time by Mayor Maurice B. Hill, in a move approved by the Toms River Township Council on Tuesday.

Amoruso replaces Don Guardian, who was hired in January 2018 by then-Mayor Thomas Kelaher. Amoruso had been serving as business administrator since June 10, after Guardian went on medical leave after collapsing at a Toms River council meeting on June 9.

Guardian had recently notified Hill that he was ready to return to work after recovering from his illness, but he notified Guardian that the township "was moving in a different direction."

"I had the opportunity to work with Don Guardian as a councilman and mayor, and I want to thank him for that two years," Hill said.

Amoruso "has had a three-month on-the-job interview," Hill said. "I am comfortable working with him."

Toms River council members echoed that sentiment. Council President Maria Maruca, who represents Ward 1, which encompasses the barrier island sections of Toms River, said Amoruso's knowledge and preparation were critical as the township dealt with the impact of Superstorm Sandy.

Councilwoman Laurie Huryk praised Amoruso, saying the town has not skipped a beat while Guardian was on medical leave. She also thanked Guardian for his assistance in bringing some projects in the township to fruition.

Amoruso, who retired from the New Jersey State Police in 2005, started with the township's public works department in 2007 as deputy director. He was promoted to director of public works in 2008 and served as assistant business administrator from 2009 to 2017. He was appointed assistant business administrator again in 2020. He also served as acting business administrator in 2009.

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