January Newsletter & Re-election Annoucement

Written By Jack DeGroot

Farewell January - Hello February!

As we make our way through the second month of 2026, I’m excited to share a major announcement along with updates during the first month of my third year serving as your Sussex County Commissioner.

Re-Election Campaign Announcement

I am thrilled to officially announce my campaign for re-election as Sussex County Commissioner! Since taking office, I’ve focused on results-driven leadership that reflects the values and needs of our community. Together, we have:

  • Preserved over 300 acres of family farmland, ensuring that Sussex County’s agricultural heritage remains vibrant for future generations, with additional preservation projects already underway.

  • Secured a 10-year reauthorization of the Farmland Preservation, Recreation, and Open Space Trust Fund, providing long-term support for farmland, parks, and open space.

  • Launched the Sussex County Seed Library, helping seniors grow their own fresh food, stay active, and connect with neighbors.

  • Expanded partnerships with Sussex County Community College and local technical schools, creating new educational and workforce development opportunities in agriculture and cybersecurity.

  • Strengthened our four-season agritourism program, supporting local farms, small businesses, and the county’s economy.

I am deeply grateful for your trust and support, and I look forward to continuing this important work. You can read my full campaign announcement and view the list of endorsements by clicking: Link to Article

You can also watch my re-election campaign announcement video by clicking: Link to Video

2026 Liaisons

A new year brings new responsibilities. In 2026, I am honored to serve as a liaison to several key boards, committees, and organizations, including:

  • Surrogate (New)

  • Sussex County Historical Society (New)

  • Capital Projects

  • Workforce Investment Board (New)

  • Sussex Community College

  • NJTPA

  • Technical School Board of School Estimate (New)

  • Lake Musconetcong Regional Planning Board

  • Musconetcong River Management Council

  • NJAC (1st Alternate)

Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary of Independence

2026 marks 250 years of American Independence, and Sussex County will proudly join the nation in celebration. As the newly appointed liaison to the Sussex County Historical Society, I am helping coordinate a countywide event to honor this historic milestone. The goal is to create a centralized celebration that:

  • Features educational programming, vendors, and community-focused activities

  • Engages residents of all ages with festivities that highlight our shared history

  • Works collaboratively with all municipalities across Sussex County through a shared-service approach

  • Incorporates the 250th theme into county libraries, senior programs, and other county-sponsored events.

Details regarding the date and location are still being finalized. Once everything is confirmed, I will be sure to share the information so the celebration can be meaningful, unifying, and enjoyable for everyone in our community.

With the first month of my third year complete, I am truly honored to continue serving as one of your Sussex County Commissioners. As I begin my re-election campaign, I look forward to connecting with residents across the county and hearing your ideas, concerns, and hopes for our beloved Sussex County. I also want to extend my sincere thanks to our DPW workers for their dedication and hard work throughout this cold and snowy season, we are truly grateful for all that you do. Your commitment to keeping our roads safe and our communities moving during challenging conditions is sincerely appreciated!

Sincerely,
Jack DeGroot

Jack DeGroot
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2025 in Review Newsletter