New Jersey remains the only state in the country to still use the colonial-era public office title of ‘freeholder’. Dating back to before the American Revolution, the title was used at a time when only white male owners of debt-free land could hold office. Today, it is a term often derided because of its inability to capture the actual duties of elected county officials.

“It’s not like there’s an integrity problem; it’s more so, ‘Where are your priorities?’,” said James Santonastaso, the Democratic Committee executive director.”

In a confounding letter to the editor sent to local news outlet TAPinto, Sussex County Freeholder Josh Hertzberg has made the declaration that he will be pursuing election to the Sparta Township Council this November. The announcement was made despite assuming his role on the Board of Chosen Freeholders on January 1, 2019 – only 18 months after his oath and his promise to serve Sussex County residents. The duration of Hertzberg’s term was slated to continue until December 31, 2021.

New Jersey is the only state in the nation where top elected county officials are still called “freeholders” — a centuries-old term that many deride as being not only confusing but racist and offensive.

Now, after years of debate, a name change may finally be in the works.

The County Government of Sussex County, New Jersey is the main governing body responsible for facilitating and maintaining various daily functions within our community.  It is led by elected county government officials; the Board of County Commissioners. They set policy for the county departments and divisions, plus a number of boards, commissions, authorities and committees. The Commissioners appoint a County Administrator to supervise the day-to-day operation of county government.

Click here for more information about Sussex County Government. 

Board of County Commissioners Meetings

Regular Freeholder meetings are held on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 6:00 P.M. unless re-scheduled by The Board.  All meetings are held in the Sussex County Administrative Center, located at One Spring Street, Newton, New Jersey unless otherwise noted.  For more information, click here.

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