NJ Mayor Tells Resident to 'Get a Job' in Heated Council Meeting

Toms River Mayor Daniel Rodrick engaged in a contentious exchange with a resident at a town council meeting, telling her to "get a job" and questioning if she still lived in her parents' basement. The incident on Oct. 19, 2026, culminated in a 4-3 vote of no confidence against Rodrick by the council.

Resident Dana Tormollan approached the microphone during the public comment period to express her dissatisfaction with a letter she received from Rodrick's office, which she claimed contained untrue statements about his accomplishments and was included with tax bills. "I told you to stop sending me this crap," Tormollan stated.

Rodrick responded, "Did you get a job yet, Dana? Are you still living in the basement at home?" The mayor's remarks were met with groans from the audience. Tormollan attempted to reply, but Rodrick continued to question her living situation, stifling his own laughter.

The resident fired back, "I live in my own house and pay my own bills so back off, jackass, because you’re collecting benefits on these people’s backs. You’re a piece of crap. Shut up." Rodrick reiterated, "Right, right, get a job," to which Tormollan affirmed that she did.

The exchange quickly escalated into a wider dispute, with audience members shouting at each other. Council President David Ciccozzi intervened, telling Rodrick to stop interrupting the public.

Tormollan later told NJ.com that she was upset because Rodrick had "mocked older women" who had spoken earlier in the meeting. She added, "If he was speaking to my mother that way, I would not sit here…It’s really gross and extremely unprofessional."

During a subsequent council meeting on Oct. 28, 2026, a resolution of no confidence was passed against Rodrick, citing his "reprehensible behavior, disruption of official proceedings and decorum violations." Rodrick had previously faced a recall effort in February, which did not advance due to insufficient signatures.