We’ve seen the questions about why the Township is hiring a Director of Police instead of promoting a new Chief, so here’s what we can share.
Bordentown Township made this decision after extensive review and consultation with New Jersey State officials. This wasn’t done quickly or lightly. The Township is adopting a civilian leadership model for the administrative side of the Police Department — a structure permitted under NJ law and used in other communities.
Here’s what that means:
• The Director oversees administrative and operational management — budgeting, staffing, policies, long-term planning, and aligning the department with Township-wide goals.
• Handling administrative responsibilities and “red tape” frees up the current officer in charge to focus on policing, training, supervision, and public safety. • Sworn officers continue to lead daily police operations through the established chain of command.
• This transition will not affect the overall Township budget.
And to answer the biggest question directly:
This does not mean Bordentown Township will never have a Chief again.
The Director role helps steady the department today while giving the Township the ability to groom and prepare the next generation of leadership — including a future Chief when the time is right.
From Mayor Eric Holliday: “Our goal is to give this department the stability and leadership support it deserves. This model allows us to rebuild, strengthen our foundation, and position our officers — and our next Chief — for long-term success.”
There are personnel and legal limits to what can be discussed publicly, so we can’t address individual situations or past decisions. But our priority is simple: a Police Department that is stable, well-supported, professionally managed, and positioned for lasting stability.
This position is being filled through an open and competitive hiring process with clear qualifications and expectations.
Read the full posting: https://www.bordentowntownship.com/o/bordentown/page/rfps-and-job-opportunities