E. Marie Hayes, shown here being sworn in as freeholder Jan. 3, discloses her experience of being sexually assaulted when she was young.
Cape May County Freeholders Gerald M. Thornton and E. Marie Hayes were sworn in to new three-year terms Friday during the board’s annual reorganization meeting.
Thornton and Hayes, both Republicans, defeated two Democratic challengers in the November election to retain their seats.
Administering the oath of office for Thornton and Hayes was state Superior Court Judge Michael J. Donohue.
During the ceremony, both freeholders were surrounded by their families. Holding the Bible for Thornton was his wife Linda, his son Mark and his grandchildren. Hayes’ grandchildren held the Bible for her swearing in.
Thornton was reappointed as freeholder director and Leonard Desiderio, who also serves as mayor of Sea Isle City, was reappointed as freeholder vice director in resolutions approved by the board. Other resolutions adopted by the board set up the administration of county government for 2020, according to a press release.
After being sworn into office, each freeholder was given the opportunity to address the audience.
Thornton, of Cape May Court House, expressed his appreciation to his family members, elected officials, department heads and administration.
“I want to first thank my family and the voters for their trust and confidence and for allowing me the opportunity to remain on the Board of Chosen Freeholders. I look forward to 2020 and anticipate another good year for the citizens of Cape May County,” he said.
Thornton also spoke of his pride of Cape May County and the “outstanding leadership” of the county departments and employees.
He listed the many projects moving forward to enhance the quality of life in the county, including the economic opportunities at the airport and County Commons in Rio Grande.
In her comments, Hayes also expressed her appreciation of the county department heads and the county workforce for the job they do in providing services to local residents.
“I also want to thank everyone who had confidence in the job I do and re-elected me to serve as a freeholder. I am proud to serve the citizens of Cape May County and look forward to serving as president of the New Jersey Association of Counties and president of the South Jersey Freeholders Association,” said Hayes, an Ocean City resident.
The meeting opened with the Presentation of the Colors by the Cape May County Sheriff’s Honor Guard. Treasa Hayes, a freshman at Ocean City High School, sang the “Star Spangled Banner” and “God Bless America.”
Hayes’ son-in-law performed the invocation. Assemblyman-elect and Deacon Erik Simonsen, of Lower Township, performed the benediction.
Freeholder E. Marie Hayes is sworn in as members of her family watch and her grandchildren hold the Bible.
