On January 24, 2020, Freeholder Director Joe Derella spoke during the New Jersey Association of Counties (NJAC) Press Conference to address the State's diversion of 911 fees.
New Jersey is one of five states that diverts 911 fees. New Jersey is number one out of those five states, diverting more than $124 million away from overhauling the current system, which is operating on 1980s technology. The small fee, placed on every resident's phone bill, was established in 2004 under former Gov. James McGreevey. The State Legislature and Gov. McGreevey established the 911 System and Emergency Response Trust Fund. Since the establishment of this trust fund, funds have been consistently diverted to help pay for other public safety expenses.
These diverted funds could be used to provide meaningful and necessary upgrades to County communications systems.
Freeholder Director Joe Derella speaks during NJAC Press Conference