Ocean County gets a new Freeholder Director during the first of the year. However, the term 'first' doesn't really do Freeholder Joe Vicari justice because he's finishing up his 33rd year on the Board of Chosen Freeholders, representing eleven terms and serving as Freeholder Director for 9 of those terms.

Ocean County Freeholder Joe Vicari, by R.Key Townsquare Media
Ocean County Freeholder Joe Vicari, by R.Key Townsquare Media
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During WOBM-AM's Townsquare Tonight, Vicari said one of his first priorities for 2014 will be to get more money for Ocean County. He said whether it be through grants, state money or federal dollars, he believes Ocean County has gotten short changed when it comes to funding. "You know in the State of New Jersey, we're the last at getting federal dollars here and Ocean County is the last of the last," he explained.

When asked, Vicari said he would put the money to use by making infrastructure improvements, helping small businesses so they can hire more residents, have our Washington Representatives aggressively lobby for more funding for the Joint Base McQuire-Dix-Lakehurst and to continue to provide services to the elderly. Vicari said Ocean County provides services in 86 different programs.

Vicari is also pleased with the County Law Enforcement in place in the County Prosecutors Office with Prosecutor Joe Coronato at its helm and with incoming Sheriff-Elect Mike Mastronardy. Vicari said both men are well respected by their peers through out the state, are knowledgeable of the law and most importantly, they communicate well with adult and adolescent constituents. Vicari believes this kind of communication is a skill that's needed as the county battles against an epidemic of drug addiction and a triple-digit overdose death rate.

Vicari also addressed homelessness, tourism and the services that it provides to its seniors. Listen to the entire interview again by selecting Townsquare Tonight in the News category.

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