For Immediate Release:
September 4, 2025

County Commissioners announce Planning Board is accepting nominations for Merit Awards Program

FREEHOLD, NJ – The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners is excited to announce that nominations are now being accepted for the Monmouth County Planning Board’s 2025 Planning Merit Awards Program.

This annual program recognizes plans, projects, programs, individuals, municipalities, businesses, community leaders, and stakeholder organizations that have made significant contributions to advancing planning excellence and positive outcomes throughout Monmouth County.

“The Merit Awards, established in 1984, offer a valuable opportunity to highlight and celebrate exceptional achievements in planning,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone. “My fellow Commissioners and I are proud to support the Planning Board and encourage all eligible individuals and organizations to apply at visitmonmouth.com.”

Nominees will be evaluated based on several criteria, including alignment with the Monmouth County Master Plan, measurable outcomes and achievements, innovation, and leadership in planning. There are two nomination categories: Planning and Non-Profit, and Development and Private Enterprise.

“The work of the Planning Board, alongside partners like the Merit Award recipients, helps ensure a resilient, vibrant County for generations to come,” said Commissioner Ross F. Licitra, a member of the Monmouth County Planning Board. “We’re looking forward to recognizing those who are helping shape the future of Monmouth County in responsible, impactful ways.”

Eligible projects, plans, or programs must be located within Monmouth County and must have been completed or fully implemented between January 1, 2023, and October 15, 2025. All entries must be submitted online by the October 15, 2025 deadline.

“The Planning Board plays a vital role in guiding responsible development throughout Monmouth County,” said Commissioner Erik Anderson, liaison to the Planning Board. “Beyond reviewing projects that impact County roads and drainage systems, the Board leads the development of the County Master Plan, encouraging regional collaboration among municipalities. We’re excited to review this year’s nominations and recognize the outstanding planning efforts taking place across the County.”

Nomination applications are available at www.visitmonmouth.com. To learn more, contact the Monmouth County Division of Planning at planning@co.monmouth.nj.us or 732-431-7460 for assistance.

For news and alerts from Monmouth County, visit www.visitmonmouth.com or follow @MonmouthGovNJ on Facebook X and Instagram.

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