TOMS RIVER, NJ – The head of Toms River’s building department has been fired following an internal investigation into allegations that he fast-tracked construction approvals for developers tied to a prominent Orthodox Jewish community leader, Mayor Dan Rodrick confirmed.
Benjamin Silkowitz, who served as the township’s building department chief, was placed on leave in November after officials said they received credible information that he violated municipal procedures involving certificates of occupancy and construction inspections.
In a letter sent by Business Administrator Jon Salonis, Silkowitz was informed that the administration believed he had breached township rules “in order to benefit an individual with whom you have a close personal relationship – and possibly a financial relationship.” The township subsequently retained an outside law firm to conduct a two-month investigation.
Mayor Rodrick said the inquiry confirmed complaints that Silkowitz provided special treatment and preferential handling to a person who operates a business managing permits and inspections for multiple construction companies.
Confrontation at League event cited in termination
According to the mayor, tensions escalated during the annual League of Municipalities convention, where Silkowitz allegedly confronted Rodrick, shoved him repeatedly and used profanity over the decision to place him on leave. Rodrick said that incident alone justified termination.
Silkowitz has filed a wrongful termination lawsuit in Ocean County Superior Court, arguing he was not granted a hearing. Rodrick said the township offered a hearing on January 21, but Silkowitz declined.
• Silkowitz placed on paid leave in November pending investigation
• Township hired outside law firm to review allegations
• Former official has filed wrongful termination lawsuit
Rodrick said the administration stands by the firing, citing both the investigative findings and the alleged confrontation with the mayor.
