The New Jersey Senate has been active this year in confirming a slate of judicial and board appointments across the state, reflecting Governor Phil Murphy’s ongoing efforts to fill critical positions in the judiciary and state boards. Here are the highlights of the recent appointments and confirmations:

Superior Court Judicial Appointments

1. Gregory L. Acquaviva (Freehold): Reappointed as a Judge of the Superior Court for a term until reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70. Acquaviva’s confirmation followed a streamlined process, with his Advise and Consent hearing held on June 28, 2024.
2. Ralph E. Amirata (East Hanover): Confirmed on May 20, 2024, to continue his role as a Superior Court Judge until reaching the age of 70.
3. Lorraine M. Augostini (Sparta): Reappointed on October 28, 2024, to serve as a Superior Court Judge until her retirement age of 70.
4. Michelle H. Badolato (Cherry Hill): Appointed to replace the Honorable Anthony M. Pugliese, J.S.C., following his retirement. Her seven-year term began following the Notice of Intent filed on October 3, 2024.
5. Peter J. Baker (Jersey City): Appointed to the Superior Court to succeed the Honorable Carmen Messano after his retirement. Baker was confirmed swiftly, with Advise and Consent held on February 12, 2024.

Historic Preservation and Resource Boards

1. Flavia Alaya (Bridgeton): Reappointed to the Historic Sites Council, with her term extending to March 14, 2027. Her reappointment was finalized on November 18, 2024.
2. Joseph Alessandrine (Cape May): Appointed to the New Jersey Historic Trust, replacing Allen Kratz. His term runs until August 14, 2026. The Senate confirmed his role on November 18, 2024.

Monmouth County and State Boards

1. Julie Andreola Grillo (Asbury Park): Appointed to the Monmouth County Board of Taxation, replacing Sylvia Coiffi. Her confirmation process began on November 18, 2024.
2. E. Asyah Aquil (Newark): Appointed to the State Board of Chiropractic Examiners, replacing David Allen. Her term is set to expire on April 5, 2025.

Environmental Oversight

1. Zoe Baldwin (Neptune): Appointed to the Tidelands Resource Council, replacing Charles Schoening. Her appointment was initiated on November 18, 2024.

Streamlining the Confirmation Process

This year’s appointments highlight a continued effort to ensure the judiciary and state boards operate at full capacity, with a focus on timely Advise and Consent hearings. Judicial confirmations were prioritized to address court backlogs, while appointments to environmental and historic preservation boards reinforce the state’s commitment to safeguarding its natural and cultural resources.

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