The Director’s Report is an update on Hunterdon County news from the Director of the Hunterdon County Board of County Commissioners Jeff Kuhl and Deputy Director Susan Soloway. It is not produced or printed at taxpayer expense.
Commissioners Congratulate Jeff Kuhl for Prevention Resources Honor
Hunterdon County Commissioner Board congratulated Director Jeff Kuhl, for being honored by Prevention Resources, at the organization’s annual event September 24th.
Prevention resources honored Kuhl for leading the Stigma Free in ’23 campaign in which all 26 Hunterdon municipalities joined the Stigma Free effort.
Stigma Free Means Ending Prejudice
In accepting the award, Kuhl told those attending the event, “Stigma free means ending the prejudice against those struggling with mental illness or drug or alcohol use disorder that often prevents them from seeking help. While Stigma does not only apply to addiction, it can be horrible and tear families apart.
The main objective of Stigma Free is help people to not be afraid to ask for assistance and come out of addiction and have a wonderful productive life.”
All Of Hunterdon County Is Now Stigma Free
Kuhl began the Stigma Free in ’23 campaign when he first joined the Commissioner Board in 2022 and was assigned the Human Services Department. By the end of 2023, all 26 Hunterdon municipalities had signed on to make their communities Stigma Free.
Deputy Director Susan Soloway said, "Jeff's compassion and concern for those in need was evidenced in his dedication to making Hunterdon County Stigma Free."
Debt Free Decade Saves
Hunterdon Taxpayers $4.5 Million
The Hunterdon County Commissioners announced at the September 17th Board meeting that County taxpayers have saved nearly $4.5 million in interest payment avoidance through the County’s no debt decade, according to an analysis by the County’s independent auditor.
Commissioner Director Jeff Kuhl stated, “Keeping the County debt-free for a decade is exceptional achievement. It underscores the county’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and prudent financial management.”
Analysis By Independent Auditors Reveals Savings
Independent auditors at Suplee, Clooney & Company prepared an analysis calculating that Hunterdon County taxpayers have saved an estimated $4.462 million in avoided interest payments over the last decade.
Kuhl noted, “This is a sizeable amount of money that would grow even higher with the spike in interest rates over the next couple of years.”
Last Debt Payments Made In 2014
Deputy Director Susan Soloway noted, “The last County debt payment was made in 2014. A full decade ago.”
Kuhl and Soloway thanked their colleagues, Commissioners John E. Lanza, Shaun Van Doren, and Zach Rich, as well as those who have served on the County Board over the last ten years, for their shared approach to fiscal responsibility that supported the no debt policy.
Critical Infrastructure and Community Services
"By avoiding debt payments in our annual budget, we have been able to invest in critical infrastructure and community services without increasing the tax burden on our residents. This is a proud moment for all of us, and we will continue to prioritize sound financial practices.”
Deputy Director Soloway Speaks To 5th Graders About County Government
"You Are Never Too Young To Have a Voice in Local Government"
During the assembly to roughly 150 5th grade students Deputy Director Soloway stressed how lucky we all are to live in Hunterdon, with the County’s rich heritage and also the importance of civic engagement and community service.
Soloway expressed her admiration to the students’ for their interest in county government, stating,“I am truly impressed by the dedication and enthusiasm of these young students. It is inspiring to see our future leaders so engaged and committed to making a positive impact.”
Commissioner Soloway shared a story with the group about a young woman who attended a Commissioner Board meeting seeking assistance with a bridge on her street that was causing a safety concern for her school bus. The lesson, Soloway reminded the students, "You Are Never Too Young To Have a Voice in Local Government".
Hunterdon County To Host LAST Ident-a-Shred of 2024 on October 19th
This week is the last time in 2024 that County residents can take advantage of the highly popular Ident-a-Shred prorgam that is co-sponsored by The Hunterdon County Sheriff, Hunterdon County Clerk and the Board of County Commissioners. With the increased amount of scams targeting county residents, do not miss this final free event at the Hunterdon County Library.
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