The Essex County Board of Commissioners convened on March 20, 2024, to address several pressing issues, with a significant focus on declaring April 2024 as Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This resolution, sponsored by Commissioner Richardson, aims to raise public awareness about sexual violence and promote community education on prevention strategies. The initiative highlights alarming statistics, noting that over 50% of women, 30% of men, and 40% of transgender individuals have experienced some form of sexual violence. The theme for this year’s awareness month is "Building Connected Communities," encouraging collective efforts to foster safe and inclusive environments.

During the meeting, Commissioner Richardson invited the public to participate in a kite-flying event on April 13, organized by the nonprofit Precious Little Ladies, which aims to raise awareness about childhood sexual assault. The commissioners unanimously supported the resolution, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in addressing these critical issues.

In addition to the awareness campaign, the meeting also touched on the conditions within Essex County's detention facilities. Commissioner Mary Thomas raised concerns regarding the quality of life for both detainees and staff, urging the board to investigate and improve conditions. This discussion was echoed by public comments from community members, including Lamont Vaughn, who shared his personal experiences within the correctional system and called for better access to rehabilitation programs for incarcerated individuals.

Dawn Haynes, representing the Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery, also highlighted the need for comprehensive support systems for juvenile offenders, stressing the importance of collaboration between community organizations and county services to address recidivism and provide necessary resources.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the commissioners to continue addressing these issues and to explore potential collaborations with community organizations to enhance support for vulnerable populations. As the board moves forward, the discussions from this meeting underscore the ongoing challenges related to public safety, community health, and the need for systemic improvements within the county's facilities.