Trenton, NJ – The New Jersey Senate Judiciary Committee has recently advanced several high-profile nominations and appointments to key judicial and administrative roles across the state. These appointments, covering judgeships and leadership positions in various councils and boards, reflect the state’s ongoing efforts to ensure effective governance and judicial oversight.
Superior Court Judges Confirmed
- Gregory L. Acquaviva, of Freehold, has been reappointed as a Judge of the Superior Court. Acquaviva will continue serving until reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70. His nomination was received on March 11, 2024, and after a series of reviews, the Senate confirmed him on June 28, 2024.
- Ralph E. Amirata, of East Hanover, was reappointed as a Judge of the Superior Court, following a similar process. His nomination was confirmed on May 20, 2024, ensuring his continued service until the age of 70.
- Lorraine M. Augostini, of Sparta, was reappointed to the Superior Court. Her renomination received final confirmation on October 28, 2024.
- Michelle H. Badolato, of Cherry Hill, was appointed to the Superior Court to succeed the retiring Honorable Anthony M. Pugliese, J.S.C. Her appointment, which began with a Notice of Intent on October 3, 2024, awaits further action to finalize her seven-year term.
- Peter J. Baker, of Jersey City, was confirmed as a Judge of the Superior Court on February 12, 2024, succeeding Honorable Carmen Messano upon his retirement.
Appointments to Historic and Resource Councils
- Flavia Alaya, of Bridgeton, was reappointed to the Historic Sites Council for a term ending in March 2027. The Senate Judiciary Committee reviewed and approved her renomination on November 18, 2024.
- Joseph Alessandrine, of Cape May, will serve as a member of the New Jersey Historic Trust, replacing Allen Kratz. His nomination was finalized on November 18, 2024.
- Zoe Baldwin, of Neptune, was nominated to the Tidelands Resource Council, replacing Charles Schoening. Her term will run until March 24, 2027, pending final approval.
Board and Council Appointments
- Julie Andreola Grillo, of Asbury Park, was nominated to the Monmouth County Board of Taxation, replacing Sylvia Coiffi. Her term will extend to May 2027, with final consideration scheduled for December 16, 2024.
- E. Asyah Aquil, of Newark, was nominated to the State Board of Chiropractic Examiners, replacing David Allen. The nomination was referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee on May 16, 2024.
These appointments highlight the state’s commitment to maintaining a robust and functional judiciary and ensuring strong leadership in areas such as historic preservation, taxation, and resource management. As New Jersey navigates critical issues in governance, these officials are poised to play significant roles in shaping the state’s future.
For further details, visit the New Jersey Legislature’s website or contact the Senate Judiciary Committee.
