TOMS RIVER, NJ – The Ocean County Board of Commissioners has approved a new round of appointments and reappointments to key county boards, advisory groups, and commissions, ensuring continued representation and leadership across departments that oversee health, housing, higher education, and community services.
Among the new appointees is Kathryn Stevenson, who joins the Ocean County Advisory Commission on the Status of Women, alongside several reappointments including Susan Sedivec, Dr. Theresa J. Kubiel, Dana Ann O’Connor, and April J. Yezzi, all serving new three-year terms through December 2028.
Dr. Pamela J. Monaco and Mary Granahan of Ocean County College were named to the Film and Television Advisory Commission, where they will serve with reappointed members Stephen Abruzzese, Jake Purfield, Michael Redpath, and Jennifer Suwak. Additionally, Sandra L. Gravatt-Drake of Manchester was appointed to the Ocean County Board of Health for a three-year term beginning in March.
Advisory and oversight boards updated
Other notable appointments include Joey Friedman of Toms River to the Ocean County Airpark Advisory Committee, serving through 2027, and Meir Kubie of Toms River to the Ocean County Opioid Advisory Council. Several council members and alternates were also reappointed to continue supporting the county’s opioid response initiatives through 2028.
Dr. Theresa J. Kubiel, who serves in multiple civic roles, was also reappointed to the Ocean County College Board of Trustees for a four-year term expiring in December 2029.
Continuing leadership across housing, health, and human services
Reappointments were approved for members of the County Housing Advisory Committee (CHAC), including representatives from the Lakewood, Brick, Berkeley, and Jackson housing authorities, along with Homes for All, Inc. and Homes Now, Inc. The Community Development Block Grant Committee will also see continued leadership from Planning Director Anthony M. Agliata and planner Scott M. Cadigan through 2026.
Jeanine Niemira of Brick and Arlene Palmieri of Beachwood were reappointed to the Ocean County Commission for Individuals with Disabilities, while Patrick Donnelly of Lakewood and David E. Most of Bayville were reappointed to the Solid Waste Advisory Council, with Most continuing as chairperson.
Key points:
• New and returning members appointed to 12 Ocean County boards and commissions
• Appointments include women’s status, opioid advisory, health, housing, and education boards
• Terms range from one to four years, ensuring continuity through 2029
Finally, Jamie S. Busch was reappointed as Mental Health Administrator within the Department of Human Services for a one-year term beginning February 2026, continuing her role in overseeing countywide behavioral health initiatives.
