Connolly: 'Time for Me to Focus on My Family'

Dave Connolly's decision to step down from his Township Committee post was one he didn't make rashly, but was nevertheless necessary after careful consideration of his priorities.

"I've been agonizing for a long time," Connolly said, but "it's time for me to focus on my family."

The six-year governing body member and longtime Wyckoff volunteer delivered his letter of resignation Monday, creating a vacancy aboard the five-seat committee that will be filled by appointment. The governing body, which will have to vote on candidates submitted by the Republican county committee, expressed regret at Connolly's departure.

Connolly, who had been the longest serving member of the Township Committee, shares those regrets but worried he would not be able to "do justice for the taxpayers" by remaining in his role.

"My family has been in tremendous sacrifice while I've done this," he said. While he has enjoyed being of service, current business demands and the pull of family were too much to continue aboard the governing body.

"You get a call at anytime, and you have to stop what you're doing and go," he said. "I had to clear the deck... and grab the brass ring with my family."

The former committeeman explained that he needs to be more available for his elderly parents, as well as his son, who will be heading to college next year.

"As a coach, I always could teach kids the X's and O's. But the real game is life... and you have to have faith and family," said Connolly, who could no longer accept missing functions with his son in favor of his other responsibilities.

Furthermore, Thomas H. Connolly and Sons, a boating sales business in which he is a partner, is "becoming incredibly demanding," Connolly said while on a business trip to Canada. 

"I've always put others first.. but I have to take care of the home-front right now."

First appointed to the governing body in 2004, Connolly has served two elected terms. His six-year tenure has included a variety of liaison and committee assignments, and he most recently chaired the Finance Committee and was the governing body's liaison to the Environmental Commission.

But Connolly's service goes back years, including stints with the Wyckoff Education Foundation and as a coach for youth sports. He also serves as assistant scoutmaster of Troop 77 in Wyckoff, although he said he will resign that position, as well.

His exposure to most every township organization and function brought him into contact with many of those who serve Wyckoff selflessly, and it is those relationships he'll miss most.

"I've always treated people how I'd like to be treated," Connolly said, while noting the "great people" at Town Hall. "I'll miss them more than they'll miss me," he said with a laugh.

Connolly was particularly impressed with the township's first responders, marveling at their commitment to serve, any time, year-round.

"What a great group of folks. Wyckoff is so fortunate to have them," he said, particularly emphasizing that working with police Chief Benjamin Fox has been "unbelievable."

"I will miss our conversations," Connolly said.

The former committeeman said he was always mindful of his role and his responsibility to Wyckoff residents.

"There's so much power in that position," he said. "Never did I make a decision that wasn't in the best interest of the taxpayers."

The vacancy on the Township Committee will first go to the Republican county committee (the GOP holds the majority on the governing body), which has 15 days from the resignation date to forward three names of possible replacements to the Township Committee.

Drita McNamara, the municipal chair of the GOP committee, said she plans to hold a mandatory meeting for members, likely to start at 5:30 p.m. Sept. 27 in the James Monroe Room at the Wyckoff Public Library.

She said applicants will be interviewed that evening, with candidates forwarded to the township by Sept. 28.

McNamara said the committee will look at "a little bit of everything" when considering candidates, including their personal experience; history of involvement in Wyckoff activities; professional background; and ability to devote time to the job.

"It's definitely a significant time commitment," said McNamara, who also is a Planning Board member. "The reality is you live and breathe it everyday."

She's hoping to have a surplus of candidates for the committee to choose from and is soliciting interest in the term, which will expire at the end of 2011. Wyckoff GOP members interested in being considered can contact McNamara with a resume at dmcnama4@ford.com.

Mayor Rudy Boonstra said "there obviously will be discussions regarding the three names" forwarded by the GOP committee. "Depending on how familiar we are with the candidates" will determine whether the committee conducts formal interviews before voting on Connolly's replacement.

"Dave is all about Wyckoff," McNamara said. "He will be well-missed."

Connolly said the coming weeks will be an adjustment period for him as he sheds some responsibilities.

"When the game's on the line, I always want to be in the batter's box."

But he leaves with "no sorrow" and is confident the township is "in good hands going forward" with the remaining Township Committee members.

"I loved every minute of it."