Cara Jansen, the Public Health division director, detailed the county’s plan for the community health assessment and improvement strategy. The survey aims to collect data through resident surveys, focus groups, and key informant interviews to identify health risks and improve health outcomes. Jansen stressed the significance of aligning health improvement efforts with community values and needs, and understanding the social determinants of health to tackle disparities and inequities.

Community participation in the survey was underscored, with the survey being offered in five languages. Jansen encouraged local businesses and entities to support the initiative. Questions were raised about the survey’s duration and involvement opportunities, to which Jansen clarified that the survey would be open until at least the fall and provided contact details for potential supporters.

The Commissioners reviewed and moved several ordinances, including the first reading of a Bond ordinance for various Capital Improvements for the fiscal year 2024 at Atlantic Community College. Additionally, a supplemental Capital ordinance concerning countywide HVAC and stormwater improvements was discussed. Guarantee ordinance number one, securing payment on County guaranteed revenue bonds for the Aviation Park Project, was also presented.

Final readings of ordinances consenting to the city of Summers Point and the township of Galloway were held, and an ordinance revising speed limits along Old New York Road was introduced. All ordinances were moved and seconded without further comments from the commissioners.

Notable grants included funding from the New Jersey Department of Children and Families for a youth services coordinator, a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice for the Liberty Mid-Atlantic high-intensity drug trafficking area task force, and health department grants for tanning facility inspections, the Medical Reserve Core, and childhood lead exposure prevention.

The commissioners discussed resolutions for competitive contracts with Landing prevention resources for a gun violence prevention program and with Jewish Family Services for case management programs, as well as an alternate method contract with Premier Orthopedic Associates for spinal treatment services for inmates.

In addition, intergovernmental agreements were reviewed, including a business associate agreement with the New Jersey Department of Children and Families and agreements with Keep Atlantic Soil Conservation District and Atlantic Community College for technical assistance on soil conservation and infrastructure programs respectively.

Public comments highlighted the county’s upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026, with suggestions for planning a celebration and mention of Gallow Township’s own anniversary events. Commendations were given to new graduates of Atlantic Community College, and upcoming community events were announced, such as a college signing event and an inauguration lunch at the Ideal Institute.