Cape May County 2017 Reorganization and Swearing in of Freeholders Gerald M. Thornton and E. Marie Hayes
CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE, NJ – The Cape May County Board of Chosen Freeholders held the 2017 Reorganization and swearing in of Gerald M. Thornton and E. Marie Hayes before a packed audience this evening. The Reorganization took place in the Freeholder meeting room of the William E. Sturm Administration Building. Thornton and Hayes received the highest votes in the November election and retained their seats on the Board.
Administering the oath of office for Thornton and Hayes, for a three year term, was Judge Michael J. Donohue, J.S.C. Holding the bible for Freeholder Thornton was his wife Linda and grandson Deacon. Holding the bible for Freeholder Hayes was her husband Lloyd and daughter Danielle. During the ceremony, both Freeholders were surrounded by their families.
By Freeholder Resolution, Gerald M. Thornton was appointed Freeholder Director and Leonard Desiderio appointed Vice Director of the Board of Chosen Freeholders. Other resolutions passed by the Board set up the administration of county government for 2017.
After being sworn into office, each Freeholder was given the opportunity to address the audience. Freeholder Director Thornton expressed his appreciation to his family
members, elected officials, department heads and administration. “I want to first thank the voters for their trust and confidence and for allowing me the opportunity to remain on the Board of Chosen Freeholders. I look forward to 2017 and anticipate another good year for the citizens of Cape May County,” Thornton said.
In his comments Thornton conveyed to the audience his pride in Cape May County and the outstanding leadership of the various departments and the work of the employees. “No matter where I go in the State, Cape May County is well known and the envy of other Counties. That is the result of a great working Board of Freeholders and county employees that provide services for the residents,” Thornton said.
In her comments, Hayes also expressed her appreciation of the County Department Heads and workforce. “As I start my second term, I want to thank the voters for their support and trust in me as an elected official. I also want to thank my Departments for their support and dedication to their jobs. They work hard every day to improve the quality of life for the citizens of Cape May County. Being a Freeholder is a rewarding job and one that requires a lot of time away from my home and family. I cannot thank my children, grandchildren and husband enough for their support and understanding,” Hayes added.
She also expressed her optimism for a successful 2017 for Cape May County. “I know we have many challenges as we move forward, but I see good things happening in Cape May County,” she added.
The meeting opened with the Presentation of the Colors by the Cape May County Sheriff’s Honor Guard. Bella McKeown, a 4th grade student at Maud Abrams School, Lower Township, did a stellar job singing the “Star Spangled Banner.” Associate Pastor Terry Lothian of St. Peter’s Methodist Church in Ocean City did the Invocation and Benediction. Kathy Bakley, Benefits Specialist from the Department of Human Resources and Training, concluded the meeting with an acapella rendition of “God Bless America.”