WEST MILFORD — The township's administrator, Nancy C. Gage, is leaving her position at the end of the month.
Gage, who has been on the job in West Milford since February 2012, notified Mayor Bettina Bieri on Dec. 1 of her decision.
Wednesday night, Bieri and councilmembers praised Gage for the work she did in the township.
"You're going to be missed," said Councilman Ed Rosone, whose tenure on the council is ending at the same time as Gage's tenure. He said she always took his calls and answered his questions, as well as helping many residents.
Rosone's sentiments were echoed by several of his colleagues on the council. Resident Doris Aaronson, a volunteer in the township and regular at most meetings, said Gage was the finest administrator to serve the township in her 35 years as a resident.
Gage is an attorney and said she has decided to practice law again.
When Bieri appointed Gage nearly two years ago, she said that after interviewing a dozen people for the job, Gage was the only one she would recommend. Gage, who was appointed at a salary of $125,000, had previously served as administrator for the Borough of Florham Park.
The council approved a contract with the Canning Group, LLC, for Robert F. Casey to serve as interim township administrator while the search for a permanent one takes place. Casey will work 20 to 25 hours a week at a rate of $90 per hour. The township will also pay The Canning Group $1,000 for a placement fee. Casey will begin as soon as the contract with Canning is executed so he can prepare a transition plan prior to Gage's departure. Casey will be guiding the township through the 2014 budget process.