TRENTON, N.J. – Legislation to add alternate members to county agriculture development boards was cleared by an Assembly panel today.
Sponsored by Assemblyman Parker Space, the bill (A1565) requires one alternate member to represent the general public and the other to be actively engaged in farming. The two new members serve a term of four years and will participate in discussions, and vote if a member is absent or cannot vote.
“Board members are often prevented from voting because they are unable to attend meetings or have conflicts of interest,” said Space (R-Sussex). “This bill makes the boards more functional and efficient. Alternates will help the boards reach quorums, move agendas, and perform their duties under the Agricultural Retention and Development Act.”
County boards include seven voting members appointed by the freeholders or county supervisor – four with farming backgrounds and three representing the public.