BELVIDERE, NJ (Warren County) – The Warren County Board of Chosen Freeholders regrouped for 2018, swearing in Freeholder Richard D. Gardner and naming Freeholder Edward J. Smith as this year’s Board Director.
A press release issued by Warren County says Smith was sworn in by Congressman Lenard Lance, before being honored by Freeholder Gardner and Freeholder Jason J. Sarnoski.
Smith was quoted at the reorganization meeting saying, “A couple of decades ago, I was told it would be a cold day before I got anywhere in politics…must represent some kind of threshold as I begin my third term as Director.”
The report goes on to note that in Warren County’s 193 years, only four freeholders have served longer than Freeholder Gardner, who now begins his 16th year on the board. He was sworn in by State Senator Michael Doherty. “I feel quite blessed to have this continued great support,” Gardner stated in the release.
Smith also acknowledged the successes and accomplishments of the entire group of Warren County Freeholders. He also stated, “The county budget remains below where it was when I was elected to office.” The Board Director then went on to reference the county’s low debt and open space fund, as well as numerous capital projects that are underway.
Senator Doherty also swore in Warren County Clerk Holly Mackey for her fifth term in office. Mackey was elected after former Clerk Pat Kolb announced her retirement.
Other officials at the reorganization meeting include members of the legislative delegation representing Warren County in Trenton. Assemblyman John DiMaio, State Senator Steven Oroho, and Assemblyman Erik Peterson were present, along with constitutional officers such as, Surrogate Kevin O’Neill, Sheriff James McDonald, Sr., and Prosecutor Richard T. Burke.
Published by: Katie Moriarty