The meeting commenced with a motion to move Resolution 433 to the top of the agenda. This resolution involved the appointment of Ayana James, LSW, to the Atlantic County Criminal Justice Advisory Board to fill an unexpired term ending on April 1, 2025. Mark Sanson, chair of the Advisory Board, addressed the assembly, expressing his support for James’ appointment and highlighting her contributions to the Atlantic County Municipal Court through her work with Jewish Family Services (JFS).

Sanson praised the court’s innovative approach to reducing recidivism, stating that it is “frankly the only court like it in the state of New Jersey.” He shared that only four individuals had returned with new charges over the past year, despite thousands of cases being processed, emphasizing the program’s success. James elaborated on the comprehensive services offered to individuals facing homelessness or substance abuse issues, noting that many had been successfully linked to necessary services, diverting their charges. The financial implications of the initiative were also discussed, with Sanson sharing that incarcerating someone in state prison costs approximately $74,000 per year, highlighting the dual benefit of the program in saving financial resources and improving lives.

Commissioners engaged in dialogue regarding the board’s initiatives. One commissioner congratulated the Advisory Board for its progress. Sanson mentioned that quarterly statistics regarding program success are compiled and can be shared with the board.

The discussion then shifted to the impacts of domestic violence and the importance of timely intervention in the criminal justice system. A speaker emphasized that ignoring domestic violence issues could lead to severe consequences, including injury or death and incarceration. They articulated that while this approach doesn’t solve all problems within the broader criminal justice framework, it addresses issues early on, particularly in municipal courts. The speaker pointed out that having 23 municipal courts in the county complicates the ability to provide adequate support at every court session, exacerbating cycles for those facing substance abuse, mental health issues, and homelessness. They expressed pride in the current efforts to confront these issues effectively.

Further discourse highlighted the need for municipalities to recognize the benefits of collaboration, with a commissioner praising the efforts of volunteers in the program. They noted the importance of communicating both financial and human success stories to the municipalities to encourage participation.

Subsequent resolutions included a grant application to New Jersey Transit for fiscal year 2025, amounting to over $573,000, with a county cash match of $1,281, and an annual action plan for community development grants with a cap of $1.8 million. These resolutions were moved and seconded without debate and received unanimous support from the commissioners. Resolutions involving extending firm dates for contracts without additional costs were addressed collectively, emphasizing the importance of transparency in the public comment process for these grouped resolutions.

A notable resolution involved amending a contract with the Boys and Girls Club of Atlantic City for a work program valued at $600,000. The discussion noted the significance of this program in providing essential services. Another resolution discussed was for therapy services at a nursing and rehabilitation center, with an increase in costs proportional to the increase in service usage, clarifying the necessity for the financial adjustment.

Additionally, the board approved several other resolutions, including contracts for welding maintenance and repairs, kitchen equipment maintenance, and an emergency contract for the reconstruction of a bridge over Hamilton Creek. There was also a shared services agreement with the Atlantic County Sheriff’s Office for security services within the school district, designed to generate revenue.

Commissioner reports offered updates on the library system. The completion of the HB generator project was still pending, with concerns raised about temperature and humidity issues in library facilities. A significant closure was noted at the Main Landing Library, expected to last until January 25, necessitating the temporary relocation of staff.

The meeting also covered the potential transformation of a nursing home into a full veterans home, with the county executive seeking options for this initiative. There was mention of collaboration with Congressman Van Drew to expand eligibility for veterans from the Philadelphia region, alongside current agreements. The discussion revealed a lack of understanding regarding eligibility criteria and the county’s efforts to revise these conditions to accommodate more veterans.

During public comments, a resident, Marlene W., proposed establishing a “mommy and me” program in Harbor Township to support women and children facing substance abuse challenges. She emphasized the need for resources to help families remain intact and highlighted gaps in services for women and children. The board expressed interest in her plan and encouraged her to connect with an existing local organization, Vanzar, to refine her proposal and secure grants.