TRENTON – Senators James Beach and Donald Norcross today praised Governor Chris Christie’s selection of Camden County Superior Court Judge Lee Solomon to serve as President of the State Board of Public Utilities (BPU).
“Judge Solomon is a great choice, and will fight to get the best deal for the energy and utility consumers of New Jersey,” said Senator Beach, D-Camden. “I’m proud to have a Camden County resident in such a prestigious position, especially when that resident has a long and distinguished record of working for the people of South Jersey and Camden County in particular. Governor Christie has definitely shown a great deal of insight so far in his appointments, and I’m thankful that Lee will serve in a role where he can truly make a difference.”
“I’ve known Judge Solomon to be a thoughtful and dedicated public servant, and the utility ratepayers of the Garden State couldn’t ask for a better advocate,” said Senator Norcross, D-Camden. “Lee is that rare triple threat – someone who’s made a name for themselves in all three branches of government: legislative, judicial and now executive. I look forward to working with him to ensure a fair and honest deal for New Jersey’s energy and utility consumers in the years ahead.”
Judge Solomon began his public service career as a Camden County Freeholder, before being elected to serve in the General Assembly in 1991. After serving in the Assembly, Judge Solomon went on to serve as Camden County Prosecutor and as the first-ever Deputy U.S. Attorney under Chris Christie, overseeing the U.S. Attorney’s South Jersey offices. He was appointed to the bench in 2005.
“Judge Solomon has devoted so much of his time and energy to making South Jersey a better place to live, and I have no doubt that he will continue that commitment at the BPU,” said Senator Norcross. “His appointment to lead the BPU is the Camden County Superior Court’s loss, but it’s New Jersey’s utility ratepayers’ gain.”
“Judge Solomon is the perfect person to lead the BPU during this time of transition, and I’m sure he’ll do everything in his power to get the best rates possible for New Jersey residents,” said Senator Beach. “I look forward to speaking to him more about his ideas for the Board, and working with him to set a fair and even energy policy for the State of New Jersey.”
Judge Solomon’s appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the State Senate. At this time, a hearing has not been scheduled by the Senate Judiciary Committee to review the nomination.