SCR162

A Concurrent Resolution designating the week of April 7 through April 13, 2019 as “Local Government Week” in New Jersey.

Whereas, Often described as the “bedrock” of our current political system, local governments perform an important role in the lives of New Jersey residents; and

Whereas, Local government officials are members of the community who make valuable contributions in maintaining overall quality of life in local neighborhoods; and

Whereas, Local government in New Jersey provides governance for 21 counties comprising 565 municipalities and many school districts; and

Whereas, Local governments establish planning and zoning codes, fire safety and building standards, regulate motorized traffic that keep residents safe; and

Whereas, These local governing bodies run libraries, parks, recreation programs, senior citizen centers, fire departments, local law enforcement and many other areas of everyday life; and

Whereas, From fires to flooding, local government employees are on the front line when responding to disasters; and

Whereas, Local leaders are the first to address the impacts brought on by regulatory changes such as legalizing marijuana or modifying deductions in the federal tax code; and

Whereas, The New Jersey State League of Municipalities voted to adopt a resolution asking State leaders to formally acknowledge the importance of local government; and

Whereas, “Local Government Week” will be an opportunity to emphasize and promote civic engagement by recognizing contributions made by residents serving as public officers in local communities; now, therefore,

Be It Resolved by the Senate of the State of New Jersey (the General Assembly concurring):

1. The Legislature of the State of New Jersey designates the week of April 7 through April 13, 2019 as “Local Government Week” in New Jersey.

2. Copies of this resolution, as filed with the Secretary of State, shall be transmitted by the Clerk of the General Assembly or the Secretary of the Senate to the New Jersey Association of Counties and to the New Jersey League of Municipalities.

STATEMENT

This concurrent resolution designates April 7 through April 13,
2019 as “Local Government Week” in order to formally acknowledge the importance of local government. Designating a week in April will serve as a reminder to New Jersey residents of the many different and important functions local governments perform. From running public libraries to law enforcement, local government officials are members of the community who make valuable contributions in maintaining overall quality of life in our neighborhoods.

Furthermore, local government employees are at the front line of disaster management and recovery. From securing power infrastructure to providing shelters to those left without basic amenities, local leaders provide boots on the ground presence when dealing with hurricanes or fires.

While responsible for the smooth functioning of our towns, local leaders are also at the forefront of addressing impacts brought on by regulatory changes such as legalization of marijuana or changing deductions in the federal tax code. An official recognition of local governments will promote civic engagement and underscore the importance of contributions made by residents serving in local communities.