The Board of County Commissioners voted on July 9 to place a public question on the official ballot for the Nov. 4, 2025 general election asking voters to continue the Sussex County farmland preservation, recreation and open space trust fund for an additional 10-year period.

The resolution cites New Jersey statute NJSA 40:12-15.1 as the authority for the countywide trust fund question. Commissioners moved and seconded the measure during the meeting; a roll call showed all present commissioners voting yes and the resolution was adopted.

Commissioner DeGroote said the ballot language closely mirrors the successful 2015 ballot initiative and that authorizing another 10-year trust fund is a top priority for the year. Commissioners and staff discussed the need for clear, consistent language for voters and the intention to inform the public ahead of the November general election. The resolution directs county staff to coordinate ballot wording and any required administrative steps with the county clerk and county counsel prior to the election.