34:44One notable topics at the meeting was the workforce development efforts within Atlantic County. Commissioner Gat shared insights from a recent meeting of the Atlantic County Workforce Development Board held at the FAA Technical Center. The meeting featured an informative presentation by Colonel Schlifer, who outlined the unique research capabilities of the center, which is constructing a second building at the National Aviation Research and Technology Park (NARTP). This facility is among the few globally capable of conducting such advanced research and testing.

Gat underscored the importance of these research partnerships and introduced an innovative initiative involving drone technology and robotic lawnmowers for airport maintenance, aimed at reducing operational costs and enhancing security. He emphasized the need for greater public awareness and advocacy for the county’s aviation programs, including air cargo and aviation maintenance training. Additionally, there was a call to fill vacancies on the workforce development board and improve participation in job training programs, with Gat suggesting outreach to faith-based organizations to utilize available resources fully.

40:40In another critical development, Sophia Kent Howton, a long-time employee in the Division of Public Health, addressed the board with a and notable statement. She recounted her dedication to public service over two decades, highlighting contributions such as developing the county’s emergency preparedness program post-9/11. However, Howton expressed her struggles under the current administration, citing experiences of “hostility, discrimination, retaliation, and the weaponization of policy.” Her comments shed light on a perceived culture within the county government that she described as favoring “silence over accountability, favoritism over fairness, and retaliation over resolution.”

Howton’s allegations were met with a recognition of their seriousness, though it was noted that personnel issues typically fall outside the board’s direct jurisdiction. This exchange underscored potential gaps in communication and awareness between the administration and its employees, highlighting the necessity for addressing such grievances effectively.

04:07The meeting also celebrated the achievements of local students, with the New Jersey Association of Counties Foundation presenting over $110,000 in scholarships to county vocational technical school graduates. Notably, Amazon contributed $21,000 to these scholarships, exclusively benefiting county graduates. The principal of the Atlantic County Institute of Technology, Joseph PK, acknowledged the recipients’ hard work and the support from donors, emphasizing the importance of cultivating a local workforce, particularly in sectors facing personnel shortages such as medicine.

30:21Commissioner Parker addressed the board, expressing disappointment over the exclusion of requested funding for emergency shelters and transitional housing in the governor’s budget. He stressed the significance of these funding requests and their impact on local services. Parker also commended the education and schools committee for their efforts in restoring $20 million in operating expenses for county colleges, highlighting collaboration with educational unions and Assemblywoman Claire Swift’s office.

A discussion on school funding revealed ongoing challenges with the state’s funding formula, with Parker seeking updates on funding for Mullica schools. It was confirmed that an Open Public Records Act (OPRA) request had been submitted but not yet answered.

14:38Infrastructure developments were addressed through the adoption of various resolutions. Resolutions concerning fire and security services, drainage improvements, and resurfacing projects in Brigantine passed smoothly, with resolution 362 extending a resurfacing project’s term on Brigantine Avenue, resulting in a net increase of $215,391.10.

46:00In closing, the board recognized community achievements, including the Tower Miller Melanoma Foundation’s successful fundraising efforts, and encouraged participation in upcoming events such as the UNICO scholarship dinner. As the meeting adjourned, there was an invitation for the community to join the Fourth of July parade in Galloway Township.