Don't Hire Or Fire Anyone, Toms River Mayor-Elect Rodrick Tells Hill

TOMS RIVER, NJ — Toms River Mayor-Elect Daniel Rodrick says he will review any employment changes that happen in the Toms River Township government between now and when he takes office in January.

In an email to current Mayor Maurice Hill and township administration on Friday, Rodrick said no changes to the township's staffing should be made.

"As we prepare for the change in administration, it is imperative that the outgoing Administration take no employment actions — no hirings, promotions, demotions, terminations or transfers," Rodrick wrote. "Any changes and/or increases in department size will be subject to a full review and potential reduction in force after January 1st."

He forwarded that email to township employees, adding, "anyone who feels that they have been wrongfully disciplined and/or terminated in the interim may seek a full review as well."

Rodrick also urged the administration to not sign any discretionary or "or non-emergent" contracts through the end of the year.

The email comes in contrast to the conciliatory tone of the Nov. 8 Township Council meeting, where the current council members congratulated Rodrick — who was out of town — on his victory.

Much of the township's Republican Club had publicly supported Rodrick in the general election, after he defeated Hill and challenger Geri Ambrosio in June in the Republican primary.

The council meets again Tuesday, Nov. 21, at 6 p.m., a change to the usual date of Wednesday because of Thanksgiving.