MEET MICHAEL McFADDEN, SOUTHAMPTON TOWNSHIP ADMINISTRATOR

In January, 2008, Michael McFadden will begin his second year as Southampton Township Administrator. Mike was appointed in December, 2006 and took up his post on January 2nd, 2007. Mike’s first year on the job was truly a baptism by fire. No one could have predicted the April flood or the Gypsy Moth crisis which took place within months of his arrival from a relatively quiet Ocean County community — Eagleswood Township. However, it appears that Mike emerged from these catastrophic events with a sense of not only survival, but also accomplishment. Residents who have dealt with Mike one-on-one feel that his steady hand and clear head got the township through these trials better equipped to deal with future crises.

Mike, at 63 years of age, has had varied career experiences, including a 13-year stint as vice-president of human resources for Southern Ocean County Hospital. He came to Southampton after three years as administrator of Eagleswood in Ocean County, a township with a population of 1,400. He was one of 70 applicants for the position when Jack Lipsett resigned after six years of service as Administrator here.

Back in February, 2007when interviewed by a reporter, Mike gave his reason for accepting the post: “It was a fantastic opportunity in a beautiful, beautiful municipality, one staggeringly so.” During that interview he articulated his fiscal philosophy: “We have to be as smart as we can with every dollar we spend and still provide the services the residents deserve. It is a constant push and pull.”

Mike calls New Jersey home, having grown up in Union, in the northern part of the state in Union County. He attended Seton Hall University, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in history and a minor in philosophy. Mike and his wife, Joyce, live in Stafford Township, Ocean County.

As Township Administrator, Mike is responsible for a staff of 30 people and the day-to-day operations of the Township.

Southampton Township Newsletter, Volume 6, #1 - December,2007 - page 3