BERKELEY – Chief Financial Officer Fred Ebenau, who managed the township’s books through good times and bad, has retired after 40 years in the public sector.
“Fred was an excellent leader in the finance department and an excellent partner to the council,” Mayor Carmen Amato said.
Ebenau came to the township 15 years ago. He saw the township through Superstorm Sandy and its rebuilding, and a clean-up that cost millions. There were also forest fires and the pandemic. But there was also financial security and a balanced budget, Amato said.
“All good things must come to an end,” he said. “He’s entitled to retire after the hard work he’s done for us. We couldn’t have done it without you.”
“My 40+ years, I have to honestly say, working with and for Mayor Amato has been terrific,” Ebenau said. Through the thick and thin, Berkeley has managed to have low taxes and clean books. He credited the hard work of the finance office team.
Berkeley has the second lowest tax rate in Ocean County, and many credit the know-how of Ebenau and the finance department.
Amato noted that Manchester has a lower tax rate, but it’s because the gated communities have to pay for their own garbage and road maintenance. The average Berkeley homeowner pays less than half the state average. The township’s bond rating is AA- from Standard and Poor’s, and they’re working toward a AAA. The bond rating is essentially like a credit score for a town. All of these high marks show that the town is doing what they should do for residents.
Councilman Angelo Guadagno shared a personal story. His father passed away and his wake was on a holiday. Something happened and the pastor wasn’t able to make it. Ebenau is a pastor in Toms River. Guadagno called Ebenau with only hours to spare and he came out to perform the services.
Council President John Bacchione, chair of the council’s finance committee, said “I really learned a lot from you. We will take that knowledge with us.”
Councilman Keith Buscio noted he’s always been professional and very knowledgeable.
Councilman Michael Signorile thanked him for “putting up with us and teaching us.”
“In my three years (on the council) I’ve learned quite a bit about the finances of the township,” he said.
Councilwoman Sophia Gingrich said she’s been on the council for nine years and found working with him fantastic.
“You knew everything was good after meeting. We know everything was spot on,” she said.
Councilman Thomas Grosse said he’s always been a gentleman and a great family man. “He always has the answer to your question and then some,” he said. “He’s such a wealth of knowledge. It won’t be the same without you.”
Ocean Gate Mayor Robert Curtin spoke at the Berkeley meeting, saying Ebenau has been a great contributor and a valued counsel to that borough as well.
