West Caldwell Appoints Bramhall Acting Administrator

The West Caldwell Council made a number of organizational changes Tuesday, including appointing Police Chief Michael Bramhall as acting township administrator. 

Bramhall will serve in the position with no additional compensation while the governing body conducts a search for a new administrator, Mayor Joseph Tempesta said.

Council President Stephen Wolsky said choosing Bramhall “made the most sense” since the police chief handles the largest department with the largest budget in the township.

Former Administrator and Clerk Jock Watkins announced his resignation last month and he begins administrative leave on April 3. Watkins worked for West Caldwell for more than 30 years in various capacities.

“Jock Watkins, who has done a great job for us, announced about a month ago his intention to retire,” Tempesta said.

Tempesta thanked Watkins, who was not present at the meeting. “He’s really been part of the family in this community for many, many years,” he said.

Along with the appointment of the acting township administrator, the council passed several resolutions as part of what it called the “2013 reorganization and staffing plan.” 

“We want to capitalize on the opportunity that presented itself here,” said Councilman Thomas O’Hern, chairman of the Legal & Personnel Committee, referring to Watkins' retirement.

O’Hern said the goal of the reorganization plan is to increase efficiency, accountability, communication and other areas that would strengthen the town’s government.

The reorganization includes reassigning current township employees as well as adding new headcount.

Nikole Monroig, who has worked for the borough for seven years, was appointed chief financial officer and treasurer. Helen Turner will no longer serve as temporary chief financial officer.

Current West Caldwell employees William Wallace and Mary Donovan were appointed acting assistant township administrator and acting township clerk respectively.

A number of new positions will be advertised internally and externally, including a part-time IT manager and full-time positions for a fire inspector, human resources coordinator and water laborer.

While Bramhall is in the capacity of acting township administrator he will report to the mayor.

The police chief’s day-to-day duties will be handled by Capt. Gerard Paris, Bramhall said. 

The reorganization does not come into play with the increase of the 2013 municipal budget, said Wolsky, who stated his support of the plan along with other members of the council.

“I believe it’s in the best interest of the township and the taxpayers,” Councilman Richard Otterbein said.

Tempesta said one of the goals of the reorganization is to retain employees. He said he hopes more employees will make a career out of working in West Caldwell as Watkins did.

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