Tinton Falls Councilman Steps Down from Post; Council Seeking Replacement Through Dec. 31

Tinton Falls Councilman Duane Morrill announced on Tuesday night that he was stepping down from his position due to increased demands from his new job with the New York Police Department.

Morrill, who was elected to the council in 2007, submitted a letter of resignation to his fellow council members at this week’s meeting effective immediately.

“You are what makes Tinton Falls such a great place to raise a family,” Morrill said to his colleagues.

The borough council has 30 days from the date of Morrill’s resignation to appoint a replacement. Remaining council members will submit nominations for Morrill’s replacement at the March 15 meeting. After a discussion of possible candidates, the council will vote on Morrill’s replacement and the winner will be the candidate that receives the majority vote. The new council member will complete the remainder of Morrill’s four-year term that is up for reelection in November.

Councilman Andrew Mayer suggested that Tinton Falls residents submit letters of interest to Borough Clerk Maureen Murphy prior to the next meeting, which will be held at Seabrook Village at 7 p.m.

Morrill served as a member of the Open Space, Recreation and Community Activities committees and was a firefighter for the borough.

The borough council altered its voting schedule in 2010, moving it from May to coincide with November’s general elections for cost purposes, according to Council President Gary Baldwin. He said that holding a separate election cost the borough approximately $30,000. Those council members with terms ending in 2011 agreed to a six-month extension to allow for the November vote and a January reorganization of the council with newly elected members sworn in.

All members of the council, as well as the mayor and administration, expressed regret for Morrill’s departure on Tuesday and embraced the outgoing councilman once the resignation had been formally accepted.

“Your heart has been in the right place for the community,” Mayor Michael Skudera said to Morrill.