ROCKAWAY TOWNSHIP – Michael Puzio, the Republican mayor, is resigning to take a job in the pharmaceutical industry.

Puzio’s departure means there will be a special election later this year to fill the remainder of his term. Puzio was elected in 2019.

In the meantime, Council President Joseph Jackson will serve as interim mayor.

Puzio’s departure either came upon suddenly or was closely guarded. In an end of the year address last month, Puzio ran through the township highlights of 2021 and set goals for 2022. He gave no inkling of his plans.