DiVincenzo says Essex connects families to critical resources

Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. touted his continued expansion of schools and recreational facilities and the Aaaa bond rating in his 16th annual State of the County address in Newark last night.

“I take great pride in what we have accomplished in Essex County… Because of the work of our dedicated 3,500 employees, we can say Essex tells a different story,” DiVincenzo said. “We have connected families to critical resources, listened to our neighbors to reshape our priorities and mission and kept people working during the worst recession in modern times. Reform. Change. Transform. These are words that are not usually associated with government, but in Essex County, that’s what we are about.”

DiVincenzo highlighted the new Donald M. Payne School of Technology, the creation of the South Mountain Recreation Complex, and the Riverfront Park in Newark as an example of Essex County’s transformation since he took office in 2003.

The county executive also detailed the county’s role in combating the opioid crisis, including treatment programs and assistance to local police departments.

“A cocoon is not the most beautiful of things. But with vision and nurturing can lead to some of the most amazing opportunities in time,” said DiVincenzo.  “Government can and should be that for people. Transformative. Innovative. Metamorphic. That’s who we are and how we are Putting Essex County First.”.