Permits county board of chosen freeholders to appoint interim member of county tax board under certain circumstances.
Impact
The bill's amendment to R.S.54:3-3 is intended to mitigate operational disruptions that may occur when there are unfilled vacancies on a county tax board. By allowing the local governing bodies to appoint interim members, the bill aims to facilitate the continuity of essential functions such as property tax assessments and appeals. This is particularly relevant in the case of counties experiencing difficulties in maintaining full membership on their boards due to administrative holdups at the state level.
Summary
Senate Bill S2718 proposes an amendment to the existing law governing the appointment process for members of county tax boards in New Jersey. Specifically, the bill allows county boards of chosen freeholders to appoint interim members if the Governor has not filled a vacancy within a 30-day timeframe. This provision seeks to ensure that the operation of county tax boards remains functional and efficient, particularly in instances where appointments are delayed due to the legislative process or other circumstances that cause vacancies.
Contention
While proponents of S2718 argue that the bill is a necessary reform to ensure the smooth functioning of county tax boards, some opponents may express concerns regarding the delegation of appointment power. Critics could argue that allowing local government bodies to fill such vacancies may lead to inconsistencies in governance and accountability, as the interim appointments could be influenced by local political dynamics. The extent of this concern may vary based on the political landscape of the counties involved, making it a notable point for discussion among lawmakers and stakeholders.
Allows Right to Farm Act complaints to be filed with county agriculture development board in adjacent county under certain circumstances and creates alternate voting members on such boards.
Allows Right to Farm Act complaints to be filed with county agriculture development board in adjacent county under certain circumstances and creates alternate voting members on such boards.
Allows Right to Farm Act complaints to be filed with county agriculture development board in adjacent county under certain circumstances and creates alternate voting members on such boards.
Exempts members of State Board of Agriculture and county boards of agriculture from personal liability and allows such boards to hire outside counsel and consultants.