TOMS RIVER, NJ – After telling his neighbor in an email that he would move if Dan Rodrick defeated him in the June GOP primary election, Toms River Mayor Maurice “Mo” Hill said Wednesday night that he’s not going anywhere.
In May, Hill became irate with the Toms River Jewish Community Council after they announced they would be supporting a different candidate, former Toms River Republican Club President Geri Ambrosio. Ambrosio, backed by Ocean County GOP Chairman George Gilmore, eventually finished second behind Rodrick in the four-way race.
In an email sent to Scott Garter, a neighbor of Hill who had threatened to sue the town if certain demands were not met several years ago, Hill said he would leave town if he lost.
Prior to the election, Hill maintained a good working relationship with the TRJCC. During the election, Hill provoked the council to vote for his opponents if they didn’t like the way he governed the town.
And they did.
“The TRJCC told us they were community leaders,” Hill wrote. “Booky, Michael and Sam [TRJCC leaders]. Well, vote for either Geri Ambrosio or Dan Rodrick and I’m moving so you won’t have to worry about me. You’ll have a new neighbor and Good Luck because with either of those two you’ll need it.”
Hill finished the letter with, “Sorry you’re disappointed.”
The email was sent through Hill’s public township email address.
On Wednesday, Hill told the township during a public township council meeting that he’s not leaving town, adding that he just finished upgrading his pool.
“My house isn’t for sale, I just refinished my pool,” Hil said. “I’m not going anywhere.”
Hill will serve out his term as mayor until December 31, 2023. In January, the next mayor will be sworn in.
Rodrick, the Republican nominee is facing John Furey, a Democrat and former township councilman in November.