CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE — Cape May County Commissioner Melanie Collette resigned her elected position Friday, March 20, and on Tuesday, March 24, was announced as the county’s new public information officer.
The Cape May County Board of Commissioners did that in conjunction with a resolution transferring oversight of the Office of Public Information to County Administration.
According to a press release from the county, these moves reflect the county’s ongoing commitment to transparency, timely information sharing, and modernizing how it connects with residents, businesses, and visitors through today’s diverse media landscape.
“When we began thinking about who could lead this effort, we realized we had a highly qualified media specialist right in our midst,” Commissioner Director Leonard C. Desiderio said. “Melanie Collette brings a broad range of expertise in public communications including television, radio, podcasting and social media. She is a regular contributor on multiple national media outlets and has hosted her own radio show right here in Cape May County. Combined with her deep knowledge of county government, Melanie is uniquely positioned to lead our mission to create the best County Public Information and Communications department in the state.”
Collette stepped down from her position on the Board of County Commissioners effective Friday, March 20, after Desiderio asked her to consider leading the county’s efforts to expand and modernize the Office of Public Information.
“I am truly excited and honored to take on the role of Public Information Officer for Cape May County,” Collette said. “This is a pivotal time for government communications. My goal is to modernize how we deliver information across all popular platforms – in person, in print and via the ever-changing landscape of social media. Our county has so many great stories to share. My office will endeavor to ensure we are reaching every resident and visitor who wants to stay informed and engaged. I look forward to making our communications more accessible, responsive, and impactful than ever before.”
The approved resolution formally transfers the Office of Public Information to Department 107 under County Administration. This change is designed to improve coordination, operational efficiency, and the overall quality of public messaging while maintaining all existing responsibilities, including serving as the central point of contact for media relations and county departments, according to the release.
The county continues to prioritize accessible, accurate, and timely information on programs, services, initiatives, and emergency updates, the release stated. Residents and visitors can expect enhanced digital engagement and storytelling that highlights the many positive developments in Cape May County.