15:43The board took a decisive step in dealing with the recent mold infestation at the Weedsforth building. Faulty plumbing had led to severe mold issues, resulting in the evacuation of the transit office. The commissioners reported that the mold remediation had been completed successfully, allowing transit operations to resume the following week. Plans for further renovations and repairs are underway to prevent similar issues in the future.

Employee recognition was another topic of discussion of the meeting, as the board celebrated the dedication of county employees who have served for 25 to 50 years. Two employees marked an exceptional milestone of 50 years of service, one in the library and another in the Department of Public Works. To honor these achievements, a special presentation was held where pins were awarded, followed by a small gathering with cake and coffee. The board decided to make this an annual event every February, with a permanent placard to be installed in the foyer to commemorate the honorees’ contributions.

The commissioners also addressed the financial aspects of county operations. They reviewed and unanimously approved various resolutions, including contract awards and change orders, which were deemed beneficial to the public interest. A resolution for the payment of bills dated January 22, 2025, was also approved, albeit with one member abstaining from the vote.

In terms of new business, the board discussed several community-focused programs. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program aims to provide free tax preparation services to seniors and low-income individuals, with appointments starting after January 24, 2025. Additionally, “A Matter of Balance,” a program designed to help older adults mitigate the fear of falling, is scheduled to be held at Liberty Towers from February 3 to March 31, 2025. These initiatives underscore the county’s efforts to support its vulnerable populations.

The meeting also featured discussions on the county’s participation in the New Jersey Counts 2025 initiative, an annual point-in-time count of unsheltered homeless individuals set for January 29, 2025. The county will lead the coordination of this event to gather essential data on homelessness in the community.

Furthermore, the development of an outdoor wellness health facility for county employees was proposed. This initiative aims to promote physical fitness and wellness, leveraging grants and partnerships with local colleges. The vision includes outdoor workout equipment and safety features to prevent injuries, with a key individual spearheading the project’s progress and seeking funding opportunities.

In public commentary, concerns were raised by an individual about the effectiveness of the commissioners, expressing dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs. This feedback highlights the ongoing need for the board to engage with and address the concerns of the community members they serve.