The commissioners announced the launch of the online portal, which will be available from October 1st to October 22nd. This platform is intended to gather public input on the most effective ways to utilize the opioid settlement funds to combat the opioid epidemic. Commissioners emphasized the importance of community participation in shaping the county’s strategy against opioid abuse, encouraging residents to share their insights and suggestions.

In line with public health efforts, the Skylands Ride program will initiate a pilot program offering Sunday public transportation services. This new service, which begins on September 28th, aims to provide residents with greater access to public transit, although it will not operate on county holidays.

Addressing homelessness, the board highlighted the formation of a task force in collaboration with the Newton Town Council and local police. This initiative seeks to address homelessness through expedited housing solutions and increased collaboration with local authorities. A tour of facilities offering services to the homeless revealed that while 21 individuals were identified as homeless in Newton, the county’s overall homeless population is estimated at 951. These findings underline the need for comprehensive strategies to tackle homelessness across the county.

In an update from the Department of Engineering, the completion of repairs to County Bridge B-08 in Branchville and the annual roadway crack sealing program were reported, covering 23 miles of county routes. Additionally, a significant safety modification is underway at the intersection of County Route 519 and Maple Grange Road in Vernon, where an all-way stop is being installed to enhance safety, as outlined in the Sussex County local safety action plan.

The commissioners reviewed the Sussex County Trails Grant Program, which is in the process of updating its rules and regulations for the 2026 solicitation. Proposed changes aim to simplify the application process and potentially increase funding levels, with the requirement for matching funds reduced from 50% to 10% of total costs. These changes are intended to better support the construction, rehabilitation, restoration, and maintenance of publicly owned shared-use trails.

During the meeting, a safety grant totaling $28,598,000 was awarded to improve exterior lighting at three main libraries. The current lighting, described as inadequate, will be upgraded to enhance visibility and safety. Furthermore, a refresher course on active shooter training was conducted for various county offices, emphasizing preparedness in light of current safety concerns.

Public comments during the session touched on various issues, with one resident criticizing the government’s approach to governance, warning of an erosion of rights, and another expressing gratitude for federal leadership. Concerns about a recent incident involving Newton police officers were raised by Ken Collins from Andover Township, who urged the board to ensure police receive proper training in handling mental health crises, referencing New Jersey Attorney General Law Enforcement Directive number 20204.

The board also faced criticism over potential plans to relocate the prosecutor’s office to a newly purchased bank building. Concerns were expressed about the building’s size and inadequate parking, questioning whether the move would meet the office’s space requirements.

The Sussex County Library System announced temporary renovations at the EU Child’s Branch in Stan Hope, with alternative arrangements for services in place during the closure.