Downtown District's Executive Director to Depart April 11

After only four months at the helm, the executive director of the Downtown Toms River business district is vacating his position for a new job in Massachusetts.

Kevin J. Mizikar will leave his position at and start at new position as Grafton, Massachusetts’s assistant township administrator on April 11 according to Grafton town officials.

JoAnn Juralewiez, Chairman of the Board of the Business Development Corporation for Toms River, said she learned of Mizikar’s decision on March 16 and is understanding of his choice to change position.  Despite the quick turnaround—with Mizikar serving as executive director for short while—Juralewiez is optimistic for the future of the Downtown Toms River business district citing Mizikar’s hard work in the time he was there.

“It was a very powerful time, we got a lot accomplished…Kevin has prepared a lot of groundwork for moving ahead,” she said. 

Juralewiez said the strength of the district lies in the upstanding work of the many committees that help with the many events throughout the year-- like the upcoming food festival in May.  She said the committees are well organized, with the best staff, and she does not expect much hardship in Mizikar’s absence.

“I don’t believe this is going to set us back at all,” she said.  “We’re just looking forward to a good year.”

Juralewiez said Mizikar had applied for this position in July 2010 and was just recently offered the position, she wishes Mizikar the best in his future endeavors.  Mizikar was unable to be reached before press time.

“He’s a great guy and this is a wonderful opportunity for him,” she said.

Juralewiez said she will speak to the other board of directors for the town next Wednesday to discuss hiring a replacement for Mizikar.  She is optimistic to fill the position within two to three months and is confident she will find a suitable replacement.

“I think we have a lot of good info to work with for finding a new executive director,” she said.