WEST MILFORD — Township officials in North Jersey are considering a significant change that would make the mayor’s position a paid, full-time role. The proposed ordinance, set to be introduced by the Township Council, aims to address the administrative needs and ongoing projects within the town. The council is considering a salary range of $90,000 to $135,000, along with a benefits package, for the full-time position. While some may push back against paying an elected official a full-time salary, supporters argue that the current mayor, Michele Dale, with her extensive knowledge of the town and dedication to its progress, may be the ideal candidate for the role.
Councilman Michael Chazukow believes that finding someone who possesses the same level of commitment and familiarity with the town would be a challenge. Dale, who currently serves as mayor until 2027, expressed uncertainty about her willingness to work full-time for the township, although she has been approached by several council members about the possibility.
The draft ordinance stipulates that the council will decide each January whether the mayor should be appointed to a full-time position for the year. If approved, the mayor’s duties would include managing grants, public relations, and shared service agreements. However, the position would remain part-time if it fails to garner majority approval from the council. The council acknowledges the necessity of the mayor serving beyond a part-time role, according to town records.
This move echoes a similar debate in Wayne, New Jersey, where the Township Council recently considered but ultimately canceled plans to make the mayoral position full-time due to public criticism. The proposed ordinance would have guaranteed an annual salary of $140,000 plus health care benefits for the Wayne mayor, placing them among the highest-paid elected officials in the state.
Additionally, West Milford’s council seeks to repeal a section of the town code that permits the appointment of a deputy township administrator. The council believes that alternative staffing options make the position unnecessary. Despite this, Councilman Chazukow still wants to discuss the option of hiring a deputy township administrator at the upcoming council meeting.
Wednesday’s meeting will also address the potential transition of the chief financial officer position from full-time to part-time, aiming to limit any tax impact. The implications of these changes and their effects on the town’s governance and financial management will be crucial points of discussion.
As West Milford considers the possibility of a full-time mayor, the decision will undoubtedly shape the town’s future and influence the efficiency and effectiveness of its administrative processes.
