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Residents urge reappointment of longtime special officer after mayor declines to reappoint him
Summary
Public commenters and several council members urged Mayor Mary Roderick to reverse a decision not to reappoint Class 1 special law enforcement officer Todd Garris, citing his community policing work and years of service.
Multiple residents and a former class 1 special law enforcement officer told the Toms River Township Council on Jan. 13 that the mayors decision not to reappoint the officer removed a valued public-safety resource from patrols and community programs.
The issue arose during the meetings public-comment period, where Lisa Garris described her husband Todds years of volunteer and paid service as a class 1 special law enforcement officer who patrolled parks, supported traffic and community events, and led the townships "Keep Kids Alive Drive 25" sign program. She said the officer freed full-time patrol officers to respond to urgent calls and helped with public-safety presence at holidays and community sites.
Todd Garris spoke directly to the council, saying he was told on Jan. 3 by Chief Sundak that the mayor had decided not to reinstate him and that no disciplinary reason had been given. Garris said he had "never had any reprimands or disciplinary actions" and asked to be reappointed: "All I ask is to be reappointed as a class 1 officer and given the opportunity to continue serving the community." He warned that his removal reduced the number of officers and patrol cars available to the township.
Council comments after public comment voiced support for reconsidering the decision. Councilman Quinlisk told the meeting he hoped the absence was "a mistake, an oversight on this administration's part" and said replacing an experienced class 1 officer with a new hire who must be funded and trained would be contrary to the councils fiscal priorities. Councilman Iveson said he had spoken with the officer in the community and that neighbors were "thrilled" with his service, and added he believed the non-reappointment should be revisited.
No formal motion was made at the meeting to reinstate the officer; council members asked the administration to review the matter and said they planned to follow up. The mayor did not announce an immediate reversal during the public-comment period.
Provenance: The public comment in support of reappointment begins with Lisa Garriss remarks (transcript block starting at 2155.615) and continues with Todd Garriss statement (transcript block starting at 2315.8699). Council follow-up remarks appear later during elected-official comments (transcript block starting at 5039.5996).
