NEW CASTLE, Del. – Today, the Delaware River and Bay Authority (DRBA) welcomed a new Board member as Commission Chairman Samuel E. Lathem administered the Oath of Office to James L. Collins of Magnolia, Delaware, prior to the bi-state agency’s monthly meeting. Commissioner Collins replaced Henry J. Decker who resigned effective July 1, 2024.  On June 26, the Delaware State Senate unanimously confirmed his nomination for the remaining two years of the five-year term, extending to July 1, 2026.  

“I am honored that Governor Carney appointed me to serve the residents of the State of Delaware as a DRBA Commissioner,” Collins said.  “The Authority is a dynamic organization that benefits communities across the region. Working collaboratively with my fellow Commissioners and executive management, I am hopeful to make a positive impact on the important mission of the DRBA.”

“Commissioner Collins is a distinguished IT professional with significant experience in both the private sector and government operations,” Chairman Lathem said.  “He will bring additional insight and expertise to our policy discussions and we’re fortunate to have him as a member of the Delaware delegation.”

A Veteran of the United States Air Force, Mr. Collins serves as the Public Sector Leader for the Americas at the Microsoft Corporation, where he is responsible for helping governments transform through technology.  The organization’s purpose is to expand public sector business into the vertical areas of Critical Infrastructure & Transportation (CIT), Health & Human Services (HHS), Public Safety & Justice (PSJ), and Public Finance.  He has spent the last four years engaging with public sector leaders to support digital services for constituents.

Prior to joining the Microsoft Corporation, Mr. Collins served for over twenty years in Delaware State Government in a variety of roles with increasing responsibilities.  His Delaware government service culminated as the State’s Chief Information Officer for six years under Governors Jack Markell and John Carney. 

“With his impressive credentials and comprehensive background, Commissioner Collins brings a lot to the table,” remarked Executive Director Thomas J. Cook.  “We’re confident that he will quickly become an integral member of our esteemed Board and are thankful for his willingness to serve.”

Mr. Collins earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Wesley College and a Master of Science degree in Managing Innovation & Information Technology from Champlain College.  He is also a graduate of the Council of State Governments (CSG) Henry Toll Fellowship program, which is an intense leadership boot camp.  

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