JACKSON — Jackson Township officials announced that a settlement has been finalized resolving litigation involving Police Chief Matthew Kunz, who is scheduled to retire Feb. 1, 2026, ending a tenure marked by years of service and departmental leadership.
Under the agreement, the township will provide back pay and compensation tied to Kunz’s service, addressing issues that officials say stemmed from actions taken under a prior administration. Township leaders said Kunz served for years without an employment contract and did not receive salary increases after 2017, despite continuing in his role as chief.
The litigation did not name the current mayor or any member of the sitting Township Council, according to officials, who emphasized that the dispute predated the current governing body.
Mayor Jennifer Kuhn said the settlement reflects an effort to close out unresolved matters and move the township forward.
“The current administration inherited this situation,” Kuhn said in a statement. “It became our responsibility to resolve it fairly and decisively. This settlement corrects prior errors, compensates a long-serving public safety professional, and allows the township to move forward.”
Council President Mordechai Burnstein echoed that sentiment, saying the governing body is committed to transparency and proper treatment of municipal employees.
“This governing body will not ignore unresolved problems from the past,” Burnstein said. “We are committed to fairness and ensuring township employees are treated professionally and in accordance with the law.”
Matthew Kunz is credited by township officials with overseeing a police department during a period when Jackson was widely regarded as a safe community. Mayor and council members thanked Kunz for his service and extended well wishes as he prepares for retirement.
Burnstein also noted a personal connection, saying Kunz was one of the first people he met after moving to Jackson Township nearly 12 years ago and that he values Kunz’s continued insight and guidance.
Township officials said details regarding interim leadership of the Police Department and the process for selecting a new police chief will be announced at a later date.
