TOMS RIVER, NJ – After a tumultuous four-year tenure, Toms River Mayor Maurice Hill’s last day in office will be on December 31st. On January 1st, Councilman Daniel Rodrick will replace Hill as mayor of Toms River.
Hill’s four years were marred by turmoil and feuds with other Republicans and Democrats in town hall, but Council President Matt Lotano recognized the outgoing mayor for his service to the country and to Toms River.
“It’s not easy being a public figure,” Lotano said. “There’s a lot of Monday morning quarterbacking and things that go on and he has always held his head up high and handled it with dignitary and integrity.”
Ocean County Commissioner Virginia Haines, who once ran for office with Hill said she went to High School with Mayor Hill and praised his service in the Navy and for the township.
“You’ve done a great job,” Haines said. “I want to personally thank you for what you have done for the people of Toms River.”
She also bid farewell to outgoing councilmembers Matt Lotano, Josh Kopp and Kevin Geoghegan. She did not congratulate or welcome incoming mayor Dan Rodrick by name.
“I am sure the people coming in to take their place will come in with the same dedication to the people of Toms River,” Haines said.
Rodrick defeated Hill in a four-way GOP primary election in June, gaining 50% of the vote.
Hill did not speak during the ceremony.