Pennsauken Township has announced the following changes to its municipal government, administration, and public safety program: Tim Killion has stepped down as a member of Township Committee to become the town’s administrator; Joseph V. Palumbo, Sr. has moved from interim administrator to public safety director, continuing his role as chief of the Pennsauken Township Fire Department; and Captain Phil Olivo became interim chief of the Pennsauken Township Police Department. These moves were made official at the Township Committee meeting on Thursday, June 3.

Killion Becomes New Administrator

As Pennsauken Township’s new administrator, Tim Killion oversees the day-to-day operations of the town, coordinating the activities of various Township departments. Prior to this role, Killion was a member of Pennsauken Township Committee since July of 2019 and served as the town’s mayor in 2020. Previously, Killion was vice president of marketing, communications, and brand for EDA Contractors in Philadelphia, Pa. He is a graduate of Marymount University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business, with a specialization in human resources.

“I want to thank Township Committee and our residents. It’s been an honor and a privilege to serve on Committee,” said Killion. “It was a difficult decision to step down, but it’s also an opportunity to help our town grow and evolve in a new capacity. I’m really looking forward to my new role as administrator. I appreciate the trust of Township Committee and the mayor for appointing me.”

“I think Tim’s going to do an incredible job as administrator,” said Pennsauken Mayor Marco DiBattista. “It was a pleasure serving with him on Committee and we all look forward to working with Tim in his new position. Together, we’re going to do great things for our town.”

Palumbo Assumes Role As Public Safety Director

While remaining the chief of the Pennsauken Township Fire Department, a position he has held since 2011, Joseph V. Palumbo, Sr. becomes the town’s new director of public safety, coordinating with the town’s first responders to develop and enact procedures and policies to protect Pennsauken’s over 35,000 residents. Palumbo had previously served as acting administrator since November of 2019. A 27-year member of the Pennsauken’s Fire Department, Palumbo has a bachelor’s degree in public safety administration from Neuman University, Aston, Pa. and is a graduate of Rutgers University’s Certified Public Manager program.

“Chief Palumbo has done an incredible job, helping to move forward our town’s vision. I was honored to be able to serve with Joe during his time as interim administrator and I’m as excited to work with him as our new director of public safety,” said Mayor DiBattista. “During the pandemic, having Joe’s expertise could not have been more valuable. I applaud the work he’s done, and Committee looks forward to collaborating together in this new capacity.”

“We thank Joe for his service as interim administrator, his knowledge and expertise, and his help in accomplishing many projects, as well as resolving many issues,” added Deputy Mayor Jessica Rafeh, who served as public safety director prior to Palumbo’s appointment. “His performance was outstanding and we’re sure he’ll be outstanding in his new role. We look forward to continuing to work with him.”  

Olivo Appointed Acting Police Chief

A member of the Pennsauken Township Police Department since June of 2001, Phil Olivo was appointed as acting chief, in charge of the town’s 85 officers. Acting Chief Olivo has a wealth of experience in the department, including the detective, patrol, professional standards, and records divisions, as well as the bicycle and community policing units. A member of Pennsauken High School’s graduating class of 1995, Olivo has an associate degree in criminal justice from Camden County College and is a graduate of the West Point Command and Leadership program.

“The Pennsauken Police Department is vital to the success and safety of our entire community. Township Committee knows that having the right person to serve as acting chief is extremely important and we know that Acting Chief Olivo takes his responsibilities just as seriously,” said Mayor DiBattista. “We will support you and stand with you and the entire police department to ensure the safety of not only our business owners, visitors, and residents, but our officers as well.”

About Pennsauken Township

Pennsauken is a town of 35,000 that offers many amenities that larger towns do not provide. For businesses and residents alike, Pennsauken is one of the premiere locations in the Delaware Valley due to its accessibility to area bridges and highways. The Township has an active youth athletic association, great schools, and wonderful recreation opportunities. For more information, visit the Township’s website at twp.pennsauken.nj.us.