Real Work Begins: Dan Benson Takes Oath As Mercer County Executive

MERCER COUNTY, NJ - Dan Benson was sworn in as Mercer’s fifth County Executive at a ceremony on Jan.4.

The ceremony was held at Patriots Theater at the War Memorial.

“In the coming days, months, and even years, we will face a lot of challenges,” Benson said in his speech. “But we have built the relationships with people that transcend conflict and get to results. In Mercer County if you have a good idea that can make people’s lives better, I want to hear it.”

Benson said that road ahead contains “complex problems without easy solutions. But with your help, a clear vision, and strong leadership, Mercer County can and will achieve great things and be an example for the entire state.”

The new County Executive said he will soon be releasing a transition report, “With the help of our Transition Team, led by Jeannine LaRue, Sharon Gardner, and former Trenton Mayor Doug Palmer, we have developed a bold and comprehensive plan for our administration. We will be releasing this transition plan shortly.”

During his speech, Benson also spoke about his administration’s top priorities, which include:

• Getting financial house back in order and putting an end to the waste of taxpayer money.

• Bringing accountability and transparency back to county government.

• Standing up for seniors, ensuring they receive the care they deserve.
• Ensuring quality services are accessible to every corner of the county by elevating community services.
• Emphasizing affordable and accessible housing as a key economic development goal.
• Upgrading our infrastructure and fixing our roads and bridges, including building the long-awaited new Airport Terminal at Trenton-Mercer Airport in Ewing.

• Keeping the community safe and healthy by addressing substance abuse and mental health issues with compassion and resolve.

• Strengthening Trenton and expanding tourism through both restoration of historic areas and opportunities for new development.

• Collaborating regularly with local elected officials including all of our Mayors across Mercer and our County Commissioners.

• Building a stronger partnership with legislators and state government

• Expanding diversity and improving opportunities for local and minority-owned businesses to succeed and create jobs.

Benson ended his speech with a call to action for residents, “Now the real work begins. Let’s continue the conversation,” he said.

“Bring me your challenges and bring me your solutions. We’ve got a lot to do, and we will need your help to get it done. When Mercer comes together, there’s no limit to what we can achieve.”

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