Governor Phil Murphy today filed three nominations to the Highland’s Council, subject to confirmation by the Senate.

“Ensuring clean drinking water, economic vitality, and a thriving ecosystem in the New Jersey Highlands is of existential importance to the millions of residents that rely on the health of that region,” said Murphy. “The responsibility of protecting the Highlands is one our Administration does not take lightly, and the promise of a fully operational Highlands Council is one that I am proud to fulfill.”

The Governor made the following nominations to the council:

Daniel J. Van Abs – (New Brunswick, Middlesex)

Wynnie-Fred Victor Hinds – (Newark, Essex)

William S. Kibler – (Califon, Hunterdon)

The Highlands Coalition praised the move:

“These three excellent candidates will add tremendous knowledge and support to the Council’s important work,” said Julia Somers, Executive Director of the New Jersey Highlands Coalition. “We thank the Governor for making such thoughtful, stellar appointment recommendations, and look forward to their being approved quickly by the State Senate. It’s gratifying to know such great candidates are prepared to work on behalf of their home State. I am sure they will be welcomed by the Council.”

The Highlands Council is a 15-member appointed body tasked with implementation of the New Jersey Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act of 2004. The Highlands Council is advised in its actions by its Executive Director, who serves as the chief administrative officer of the Council. The Executive Director is assisted by and oversees the operations of a professional staff of planners, science experts, geographic information specialists, and administrative personnel, based in Chester.