County proclaims Social Services Agency of the Year and recognizes sexual assault awareness partners

The Warren County Board of County Commissioners presented a proclamation April 9 recognizing the county Temporary Assistance and Social Services (TASS) department as the New Jersey Child Support Council’s “County Social Service Agency of the Year.” Director Jason J. Sarnoski, Deputy Director Lori Ciesla and Commissioner James R. Kern III joined TASS Division Director Lauren Burd and staff for the presentation.

The resolution noted TASS increased paternity establishment 2.3 percent and order establishment 7.8 percent, worked to ensure NJKIDS case information accuracy, and promptly resolved payment hold reports. In the meeting, Ciesla praised the department for its work and encouraged public support; Burd said the award “is a true testament to the professionals of her staff and their hard work, dedication and commitment.” Sarnoski said the award reflects the department’s efforts to provide services with limited resources.

The board also issued a proclamation recognizing the Domestic Abuse & Sexual Assault Crisis Center (DASACC) for Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April 2025. The resolution was adopted unanimously and the proclamation was presented to DASACC Executive Director Isela Arras, who thanked the board and said the organization looks forward to continuing its work in Warren County. Commissioners urged the public to attend fundraising and awareness events listed by DASACC.

Both proclamations were ceremonial actions recorded in the meeting minutes; neither action created new county policy or budgetary commitments in the minutes.