In a politically charged incident on Friday, December 8, 2023, New Jersey Senator Vince Polistina publicly criticized Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson over a potential insurance contract deal with George Norcross, a prominent Camden County Democratic political figure. Both Polistina and Levinson are Republicans.
The controversy revolves around an appointed insurance board, established in 2014, responsible for selecting public insurance contracts. The Atlantic County Board of Chosen Freeholders approved the creation of this board, effectively relinquishing their own authority. The existence of this board came to light recently, surprising many.
Atlantic County Republican Party Chairman Don Purdy expressed his doubts about the contract’s origins, suggesting it may not have been drafted by Atlantic County officials. The official board vote on the contract is scheduled for today.
Polistina and Purdy confirmed that the bid associated with Norcross is not the lowest responsible bid received. Purdy expressed concern over a company submitting a lower bid but not winning the contract, suggesting the process was designed to favor Norcross. Polistina also blamed Norcross for a negative media campaign against him during his recent election campaign, which cost over $4 million.
Atlantic City Councilman George Tibbitt called in to highlight a similar arrangement in Atlantic City, where local companies with the lowest bids were not awarded contracts. Tibbitt expressed his concern about the impact on politics and local businesses.
The insurance board, which appears to be accountable to no one, is set to meet on Friday, December 8, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. to potentially award a three-year property casualty insurance contract. Purdy urged the board to halt or freeze the process, citing the lack of awareness among the public.
The situation has raised questions about George Norcross’s influence and control over Atlantic County, with Purdy stating that Norcross wants total control. The insurance board’s bylaws, spanning 28 pages, are funded by Atlantic County taxpayers.
As the controversy unfolds, the focus remains on the potential awarding of the insurance contract and the concerns raised by Senator Polistina, Chairman Purdy, and Councilman Tibbitt.