Manchester Township, NJ – Manchester Council President Roxy Conniff stepped down from her position Monday, April 27, citing a move out of the township, creating a vacancy on the governing body with just over a year remaining in her term.
Conniff, who has served on the Township Council since January 2023, announced her resignation in public remarks, thanking residents and local officials while reflecting on her ties to the community.
Resignation Follows Move Out of Township
“I was born and raised here in Manchester. This town helped shape my values, my sense of community, and the way I see the world,” Conniff said. “It is where I learned what it means to help those in need, to take pride in where you come from, and to give back whenever you can.”
She added, “I’m grateful to the residents of Manchester who placed their trust in me. I’m equally grateful for the dedicated employees in town hall who serve this community with professionalism and care every single day.”
Conniff, who also goes by her maiden name Roxy Coburger is a close political ally of Ocean County GOP Chairman George Gilmore, who was convicted and later pardoned for federal tax crimes. Her hiring was approved by former Manchester Township Mayor Robert Arace, who now serves on the Ocean County Board of Commissioners.
Township officials said her resignation is tied to personal circumstances involving relocation, which disqualifies her from continuing to serve in the municipal role.
County records show a $439,804 mortgage document signed by Coburger and a Kenneth D. Jenkins in Tuckerton on April 19th.
County Role Adds Context to Departure
Conniff’s departure comes less than a year after she began working for Ocean County as a public affairs specialist, a position she has held since June 2025, according to publicly available professional records. Her salary is unknown.
That department has drawn scrutiny from critics who describe it as a growing hub for politically connected hires, though no formal findings or investigations related to Conniff’s role have been announced.
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Key Points
• Roxy Conniff resigned April 27 from Manchester Township Council
• She cited a move out of town; her term was set to run through 2026
• Conniff has worked for Ocean County since June 2025
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Township Seeks Replacement
The unexpired council term runs through December 31, 2026. Township officials confirmed they are now accepting applications to fill the seat, with resumes due by May 5.
Municipal Clerk Teri Giercyk issued a public notice outlining the application process, and the council is expected to review candidates in the coming weeks.
Community Response and Transition
Township leaders publicly thanked Conniff for her service, highlighting her tenure as council president and her engagement with residents, first responders, and municipal staff.
Her exit leaves the council to appoint a replacement who will serve through the remainder of the term or until a future election determines a successor, depending on local procedures.
Current Status
The Manchester Township Council is actively reviewing applications to fill the vacancy left by Conniff’s resignation, with a deadline set for early May. No replacement has yet been announced.
