Jennifer Cooley Fleischer sworn in as Camden County commissioner

Jennifer Cooley Fleischer took the oath of office at the start of Thursday's Camden County Board of Commissioners meeting and was welcomed by colleagues and members of the public.

Why it matters: The addition fills a seat on the county commission and commissioners said Fleischer's community service background will inform her work on local programs and county operations.

During the ceremony director Cappelli administered the oath. After the swearing-in, Fleischer briefly described her background: she grew up in Connecticut, attended Ithaca College, has lived more than 30 years in the area, has worked for the American Heart Association and served on the Cherry Hill Board of Education, and runs a health-education consulting firm. “My family has always been involved with community service,” Fleischer said.

Members of the board offered public welcome remarks. Commissioner Nash said he has known Fleischer for many years and called her “an outstanding community advocate.” Several commissioners and county staff thanked Fleischer for stepping into the role and said they look forward to departmental updates she will provide in coming meetings.

A small number of members of the public asked about Fleischer's background and the possibility of electoral contests; Fleischer responded with a short personal biography and said she is committed to working for safe communities and respectful government. The board recessed into routine business after welcoming remarks.