County to acquire 18.7 acres of open space in Metuchen
New Superintendent of Schools for MCVTS
The County will also enter into a conservation management agreement with the Borough of Metuchen to manage an additional 12 acres of open space located adjacent to the newly purchased land, providing the opportunity for possible acquisitions.
Reaffirming the County’s commitment to preserving open space for generations to come, Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners Director Ronald G. Rios, County Commissioner Charles E. Tomaro, and Borough of Metuchen Mayor Jonathan Busch announced the County’s intention to acquire 18.7 acres of open space in Metuchen. The land, which is a vital wetland ecosystem home to numerous wildlife species and approximately 165 different species of birds, will eventually become part of the Peter J. Barnes III Wildlife Preserve. This new addition to the Peter J. Barnes III Wildlife Preserve will provide many benefits of open space including the preservation of essential habitats for plants and wildlife, the capture and storage of rainfall, and the protection of underground water sources. Planned improvements for public access include trails, boardwalks, a footbridge, interpretive signage, and convenient parking for visitors.
After a extensive search, the Middlesex County Vocational and Technical Schools (MCVTS) Board of Education selected Jorge Diaz as superintendent of schools. Diaz began his tenure as superintendent on April 1, 2022. “MCVTS was the first full-time county vocational school system in the country, and over the years it has developed a reputation for providing an excellent education to high school, adult, and special needs students,” said Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners Director Ronald G. Rios. “Leading a public school district that serves such a diverse population and offers the broad range of educational opportunities available at MCVTS is no small task, but I believe Jorge Diaz is up to the challenge.” “Finding the right person to lead this unique school district and to execute on the Board’s vision
for the future was not easy,” said Keith Jones II, president of the MCVTS Board of Education. “Mr. Diaz’s extensive background in educational administration and teaching makes him the right leader for our students, parents, and entire school community.” Most recently, Diaz served as superintendent of schools for the South Amboy School District. He began his career in education in 1999 as a technology specialist and teacher for the Union City Board of Education in Union City, New Jersey. He then spent 10 years as a high school and elementary school principal in New Brunswick before accepting the role of superintendent of schools for South Amboy Public Schools in January 2017. Diaz earned an MA in educational leadership from Kean University in 2006 and a BS in administration from Rutgers
Jorge Diaz
University in 1995. A resident of Carteret, Diaz has been a member of the Carteret Borough Council since January 2004, where he serves as chair of finance and administration. “I am honored to accept the position of superintendent of schools for MCVTS,” said Diaz. “I look forward to bringing everything I have learned throughout my more than 20 years in education – as a superintendent, an administrator, and a classroom teacher – to this new role. Thank you to Middlesex County and the MCVTS Board of Education for entrusting me with this responsibility.”
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Middlesex County encourages residents to utilize telehealth services
County resources. From making vaccinations accessible for everyone to expanding telehealth services in your community, Middlesex County is vigilant in continuing to provide resources to help fight against this deadly virus and is dedicated to creating a safe environment for all County residents,” said County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios.
Jump start your health this spring by utilizing all County resources including telehealth services to expand access to care and reduce disease exposure. As the first point of contact between patient and provider, telehealth is a step toward preventative care and a healthier community. “As the global pandemic caused by COVID-19 continues, we are encouraging residents to be mindful and take precautions by utilizing all
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Spring 2022
Your Middlesex
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