UNION COUNTY, NJ — A historic milestone was reached at Thursday’s Board of Commissioners reorganization meeting: For the first time, two women will hold leadership of the governing body.

Commissioners unanimously elected Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded as commissioner chairperson and Lourdes Leon as vice chair.

“Some of you know this is a very important year, because it’s a presidential election,” County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi said at the installation meeting before the board reorganized. “Did you also know that in 160 years of Union County history, this is a historic day? Because this is the first time in Union County history that two women will have leadership roles on the Union County Board of Commissioners.”

Palmieri-Mouded, a Westfield resident, plans to focus on the rights and opportunities of women in the county, amid other 2024 initiatives she announced at the meeting.

“As a proud devoted working mother and a strong advocate for women, one initiative I’m happy to announce is the relaunch of the Union County Commission on the Status of Women,” Palmieri-Mouded said.

“The commission’s emphasis will be on recognizing women’s excellence, grant funding, programs and events, as well as formulating policy recommendations that echo our commitment to provide women with the necessary resources and opportunities for their thriving success,” she said.

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