January 2025 Newsletter
Farewell, January—Hello, February!
As we step into the second month of 2025, I am excited to share the progress we’ve already made in my first month of my second year as a Sussex County Commissioner.
Farmland Preservation & Open Space: Empowering Voters
One of my top priorities this year, on behalf of myself, is to authorize a public referendum for the November 4, 2025 general election ballot, seeking voter approval to continue the Sussex County Farmland Preservation, Recreation, and Open Space Trust Fund for another 10 years. Sussex County residents deserve the opportunity to have their voices heard and decide the future of land preservation in our community.
As I pledged during the January 1st Reorganization Meeting, “I will begin advocating for this measure immediately, engaging with all of the municipalities.” I’m proud to announce that I have followed through on my pledge and am pleased to report that seven municipalities and two agriculture-affiliated boards have already passed resolutions in January in support of this effort:
Sandyston Township Committee
Green Township Committee
Fredon Township Committee
Stillwater Township Committee
Frankford Township Committee
Hamburg Borough Council
Montague Township Committee
Sussex County Agriculture Development Board
Sussex County Board of Agriculture
As an advocate for agriculture, on behalf of myself, I will be working to build support and ensure that the people of Sussex County have a voice in preserving our farmland and open spaces. Let democracy reign—Power to the People!
County Seed Library: Growing Community Engagement
Exciting News! As of January 30th, the Sussex County Seed Library has officially launched its Senior Outreach Initiative, marking the beginning of Phase Two of the program! With over 1,300 seed packets collected, this collaborative effort between the Division of Senior Services, Rutgers Master Gardeners, and the Sussex County Library System continues to provide residents with valuable resources, including:
Free seeds for fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers
Seed-saving workshops to learn and contribute
Gardening resources, including books, online materials, and expert advice
A growing community to connect, share tips, and support one another
The first educational session of this initiative is scheduled for March 12th from 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM at Newton Liberty Towers, followed by another class on April 9th at the Vernon Senior Center from 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM. Additional dates will be announced soon—I’ll keep you updated as the schedule expands! Let’s grow together!
2025 Liaisons
A new year brings new responsibilities. In 2025, I am honored to serve as a liaison to several key boards, committees, and organizations, including:
Agriculture Development Board
Open Space Board
Prosecutors Office (New)
Department of Health & Human Services
Tax Board
Capital Projects
New Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (New)
Lake Musconetcong
Musconetcong River Council
NJAC (Alternative)
Sussex County Community College
With a full year of service behind me and the first month of my second year complete, I am truly honored to serve as one of your Sussex County Commissioners. Your trust and support mean the world to me, and I look forward to another year of working together to strengthen our community. Wishing you and your loved ones a 2025 filled with health, happiness, and prosperity. God bless Sussex County and all who call it home!
Sincerely,
Jack DeGroot