Board asks state permission to create dedicated public‑health trust account for emergencies
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Summary
Hunterdon County commissioners voted to request permission from the Division of Local Government Services to establish a dedicated public‑health trust account to fund responses during public‑health emergencies and to maintain compliance with New Jersey practice standards.
At the Sept. 16, 2025 meeting, Hunterdon County commissioners voted to request the Division of Local Government Services’ permission to establish a dedicated public‑health trust account for use during public‑health emergencies.
CFO Andrew Bernat explained the trust would help the health department maintain compliance with New Jersey practice standards for public‑health services and support the county’s role as environmental health agent and designated public‑health preparedness agency. The dedicated trust would be funded from the cancellation of unexpected balances in current fund budgets across several departments, Bernat said, and requires DLGS approval because revenues are not reasonably estimated in advance.
Commissioner Rich moved to request the DLGS approval; a second was provided and the board approved the request by roll call. If the DLGS approves, Bernat said the finance department will submit backup documentation and report back to the board.