Member News By Karen Burris

Broome Retires
After four decades of service to the Dover Township MUA, (now the Toms River MUA) John Broome was honored by commissioners, state colleagues, staff, family and friends at a retirement dinner. Mr. Broome worked his way through the professional ranks to become not only the authority's engineer but also its executive director and secretary-treasurer. John guided the authority during an aggressive period of growth and directly oversaw a ten-year construction project through five-phases to sewer the Dover Township mainland, a major contribution toward protecting the area's environment. John and the Dover Township MUA have been members of AEA for many years. Best wishes to John in his retirement.

They're Back!
At the close of business on January 26, 2007, Omni Environmental (formerly TRC Omni Environmental) was reformed. Omni and TRC intend to continue working together on current and future projects. Omni's address, phone and fax number remains the same. You can reach Jim Cosgrove by email at JCosgrove@Omni-Env.com and Ray Ferrara at RFerrara@Omni-Env.com.

The Trust Celebrates 20 Years of Improving NJ's Environment
In the fall of 2006, The New Jersey Environmental Infrastructure Trust marked 20 years of improving the state's environment, infrastructure and economy. To date, the Trust has issued more than $1.8 billion in AAA-rated bonds to fund its part of the Environmental Infrastructure Program. Despite the program's success, NJ still has more than $15 billion in clean water and drinking water infrastructure needs. As the Trust enters its 21st year, it is committed to meeting the state's infrastructure needs and is continuously seeking new opportunities to help finance NJ's future. Robert A. Briant, Sr. currently serves as chairman and Dennis Hart is the executive director.

Old Bridge MUA Receives Award
For the second year in a row, the Old Bridge MUA was awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for Fiscal Year Ended May 31, 2005. The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management. Old Bridge MUA is the first municipal utilities authority in the State of New Jersey to receive this award.

In Memoriam
AEA sorrowfully announces the passing of Jeanne C. Decker. Jeanne was a friend and long time supporter of the AEA. She was active in many associations and organizations. Her participation in AEA included serving as from 1976-1977. In 1991, Jeanne was the recipient of the Annual Management Achievement Award. This award was given to an individual who had done something extraordinary for the industry as a whole or who, through years of effort, had contributed in an unusual and outstanding way to the goals of AEA. This is the highest recognition that AEA awards. Jeanne was also an Honorary Life Member. During her career, Jeanne was employed with the Somerset Raritan Valley SA and after 13 years, she became the first female executive director in New Jersey. Jeanne will be greatly missed by all who knew her and her friends at AEA.

In Memoriam
AEA sorrowfully announces the passing of Michael P. Kelsey. He was employed for many years by the Rural Development division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture as director of community and business programs for the state of New Jersey. Mike could be seen each year at the annual meeting manning his booth. He will be missed.