NEW CASTLE, DEL. – The Delaware River and Bay Authority (DRBA) Commission welcomed board member James Bennett of Sea Isle City as Senator Jeff Van Drew (D-1st) administered the commission oath of office to him prior to the bi-state agency’s monthly meeting Jan. 20.
Bennett, confirmed by the New Jersey State Senate Jan. 7, will serve a term that extends to July 1, 2020, according to a release.
“I am honored that Gov. Christie chose to appoint me to serve the residents of the State of New Jersey as an authority commissioner,” Bennett stated. “The authority is a dynamic organization with dedicated employees who take pride in serving the public. Working together with my fellow commissioners and executive management, I hope to use my experience in business, tourism and community development to develop and produce policy initiatives that will be beneficial for the bi-state agency.”
Bennett is owner of several Sea Isle City businesses, including Lobster Loft Liquors, Lobster Loft Restaurant, LaCosta Package Goods and Lounge, the Coast Motel and Casino Steaks and Pizzeria Restaurant.
Bennett is currently serving as president of the New Jersey Licensed Beverage Association and as a member of the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control Advisory Board.
“Mr. Bennett is an accomplished businessman and community leader who understands the importance
of tourism to the region,” stated James N. Hogan, vice chairman of the DRBA Commission. “He will bring additional insight and expertise to our policy discussions and we’re fortunate to have him as a member of the New Jersey delegation.”
“We recognize the time, energy and effort it takes to serve as a commissioner,” stated Executive Director Scott Green. “It’s a significant volunteer commitment and we appreciate Commissioner Bennett’s
willingness to serve the people of New Jersey and Delaware as a board member.”
A graduate of York College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, Bennett serves as chairman of the Sea Isle City Tourism Board, an organization focused on promoting Sea Isle City as a destination of choice. Bennett is also a member of the Sea Isle City Chamber of Commerce and was a volunteer coach of the Ocean City Youth Recreational Wrestling Program.
He replaces Richard S. Mroz, who resigned in 2014 following his appointment to serve as president of the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities.
The commission is comprised of 12 commissioners – six each from New Jersey and Delaware -appointed by their respective governor.
The DRBA, a bi-state governmental agency created by compact in 1962, owns and operates the Delaware Memorial Bridge, the Cape May- Lewes Ferry, and the Delaware City – Salem Ferry Crossing. The DRBA also manages corporate and aviation properties through its economic development powers – two airports in New Jersey (Millville Airport and Cape May Airport) and three in Delaware (New Castle Airport, Civil Air Terminal and Delaware Airpark).
All DRBA operating revenues are generated through the bridge, ferry and airport facilities.
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