Lawsuit Filed Over Termination of Toms River Construction Official
A lawsuit has been filed in Ocean County Superior Court by Benjamin Silkowitz, the former Municipal Construction Official for the Township of Toms River .
The defendants named in the suit are:
- Township of Toms River
- Council of Toms River Township
- Mayor Daniel Rodrick
- Acting Business Administrator Drew Chabot
Silkowitz claims he was unlawfully terminated from his position on February 2, 2026, without being given written charges or a hearing, which he argues is required under New Jersey law for municipal construction officials .
According to the complaint, he had been placed on paid administrative leave in November 2025 pending an investigation but alleges he was never provided specific charges or evidence against him . He contends that his termination violated state regulations and his constitutional due process rights.
The lawsuit seeks:
- A declaration that his termination is illegal and void
- Immediate reinstatement to his position with back pay and benefits
- Compensatory and punitive damages
- Attorneys’ fees and other court relief
Silkowitz has also requested a jury trial .
The case centers on whether the Township followed proper legal procedures in removing a state-licensed construction official from office.
Rodrick’s Rules of Chaos Continues: entire lawsuit attached.