Governor Murphy Appoints Salem County Resident to Five Year Term

NEW CASTLE, Del. -- Today, the Delaware River and Bay Authority (DRBA) Commission added a new board member as New Jersey State Senator John J. Burzichelli administered the Commission Oath of Office to Debra S. Behnke of Pennsville, N.J. prior to the bi-state agency’s monthly meeting.  Commissioner Behnke replaced Ceil Smith and her term extends to July 1, 2029.  On June 28, the New Jersey State Senate unanimously confirmed her nomination.

“I am both honored and grateful that Governor Murphy nominated me to represent Salem County and the State of New Jersey as a DRBA Commissioner,” Behnke said.  “With its management of the Delaware Memorial Bridge and the development of Salem Business Centre, the Authority has positively impacted the economy of Salem County over the years.  I look forward to working with my fellow Commissioners to make significant contributions on matters and issues that come before the Board.” 

“Ms. Behnke has a proven track record and we’re pleased to have her as a member of the New Jersey delegation,” DRBA Vice Chairman Earl Ransome noted.  “I know she will provide a unique perspective in our policy discussions, and we look forward to her invaluable input.”

A licensed realtor with more than twenty-five years of experience, the life-long Salem County resident attended both Salem Community College and Gloucester County College before shifting her focus to civic issues and public service.  Ms. Behnke has dedicated years of service to her South Jersey community, striving to make a positive difference in the lives of those who are underserved.  From Habitat for Humanity to her work with the Salem County Department of Social Services, Ms. Behnke has used her resourcefulness and willingness to help others to create change in the local area.

Ms. Behnke is also a published author in several well-known periodicals, including Chicken Soup for the Soul and Guidepost Magazine.

“We appreciate the considerable time and effort our commissioners take out of their busy schedules to serve the citizens of Delaware and New Jersey,” remarked DRBA Executive Director Thomas J. Cook.  “Ms. Behnke is a welcomed addition to the Board and we’re both fortunate and thankful that she’s part of our organization’s future.”

The Commission is comprised of twelve commissioners—six each from Delaware and New Jersey—who are appointed by their respective Governor.  Commissioners serve on a voluntary basis and do not receive compensation for their service to the bi-state agency.

About the Delaware River and Bay Authority 
The DRBA, a bi-state governmental agency created by Compact in 1962, owns and operates the Delaware Memorial Bridge, the Cape May- Lewes Ferry, and the Forts Ferry Crossing.  The DRBA also manages two airports in New Jersey (Millville Executive Airport and Cape May Airport) and three in Delaware (Wilmington Airport, Civil Air Terminal and Delaware Airpark). All DRBA operating revenues are generated through the bridge, ferry and airport facilities.  For more information, visit www.drba.net.