Essex County board elects Carlos Pomeras president; Murray Thomas chosen vice president

At a reorganization meeting of the Essex County Board of County Commissioners, commissioners elected Commissioner Carlos Pomeras as president and Commissioner Murray Thomas as vice president and administered oaths of office.

Commissioner Gill nominated Pomeras for president, saying he had “a genuine commitment to listening, to collaboration, and service,” and praised his steady leadership. After a second from Commissioner Luciano, the board closed nominations and elected Pomeras by roll-call vote (eight in favor, one absence). Judge Michael Parlavecchio administered the oath; Pomeras recited the pledge to uphold the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and to faithfully perform the duties of president of the board.

Murray Thomas was nominated for vice president by Commissioner Cooper and supported by Commissioners Mercado and Richardson. The board elected her by roll-call vote (eight in favor, one absence), and Judge Parlavecchio administered the oath of office.

A prerecorded message from U.S. Senator Cory Booker congratulated the newly sworn commissioners and urged local leaders to work “to bring people together,” and First Lady Tammy Murphy offered brief remarks praising the board’s service. President Pomeras thanked colleagues and delivered extended personal remarks about public service and his family’s immigrant background. Vice President Murray Thomas told the board she was humbled by the responsibility and noted the county’s diverse communities and economic challenges for young residents.

The reorganization meeting transitioned directly into routine organizational business, including the adoption of bylaws, an annual meeting schedule and administrative resolutions. Public comment was moved to the end of the session; no members of the public spoke. The board closed the formal portion of the meeting after a benediction led by Reverend Parcel Williams.