Senator Joe Pennacchio’s measure to replace the ‘Freeholder’ title in New Jersey county governments with ‘County Commissioner’ was signed into law.
Sen. Joe Pennacchio’s measure to replace the ‘Freeholder’ title in New Jersey county governments with ‘County Commissioner’ was signed into law. (SenateNJ.com)
“As a former freeholder, I believe it is important that the public knows the substance of what a freeholder does rather than what the term freeholder is,” said Pennacchio (R-26). “Today’s action was nine years in the making from when I initially proposed the abolishment of the antiquated term. The title ‘county commissioner’ will lend itself to transparency. This revamp will ensure more Garden State residents better understanding the function of this important position in county government.”
Pennacchio’s law, S-855, retitles the elected positions as County Commissioners.
“The reform is long overdue,” added Pennacchio. “Since 2011 when I first introduced the measure, the Legislature’s interest had been lukewarm. This bill is an improvement that will help residents recognize who they can turn to when they need help from local government. Instead of focusing on the definition, people will be able to better acknowledge and appreciate all the great work that our county commissioners do.”
###