TOMS RIVER, NJ – In a statement Wednesday night, Toms River Mayor Maurice “Mo” Hill confirmed that he will remain in the town, despite previously stating in an email that he would move if he lost the June GOP primary election to Dan Rodrick.
The issue stemmed from Hill’s dissatisfaction with the Toms River Jewish Community Council (TRJCC), which had announced their support for Geri Ambrosio, a candidate backed by Ocean County GOP Chairman George Gilmore. Hill, who had previously enjoyed a positive working relationship with the TRJCC, expressed frustration at their endorsement and urged them to support his opponents if they disagreed with his governance.
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 from his township provided email account. “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.”
Ultimately, Rodrick emerged as the victor in the four-way race, with Ambrosio finishing in second place. In an email exchange with a neighbor, Scott Garter, who had previously threatened legal action against the town, Hill had indicated that he would leave Toms River if he lost the election.
“My house isn’t for sale, I just refinished my pool,” Hil said. “I’m not going anywhere.”
During a public township council meeting on Wednesday, Hill clarified his position, stating that he had no intention of leaving town. He even mentioned that he had recently completed upgrades to his pool, reinforcing his commitment to remaining in Toms River.
Mayor Hill will continue to serve his term until December 31, 2023, after which the new mayor will be sworn in. In the upcoming November elections, Dan Rodrick, the Republican nominee, will face John Furey, a Democrat and former township councilman, for the mayoral position.
Despite the previous email exchange, Mayor Hill’s decision to stay in Toms River underscores his commitment to the town and its community, even after the election results.
CORRECTION: The article has been rewritten and republished for clarity and accuracy.
