Joined by his family, Cape May County Commissioner Patrick Rosenello takes the oath of office from former New Jersey Superior Court Judge Michael Donohue. (Photo courtesy of Prime Digital Marketing)
Former North Wildwood Mayor Patrick Rosenello was sworn in as a Cape May County commissioner Tuesday to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Melanie Collette.
Rosenello, who was endorsed by the Cape May County Republican Organization, took the oath of office administered by former New Jersey Superior Court judge and CapeGOP chairman Michael Donohue.
“All of my priorities are focused on one outcome I hold dear: ensuring that future generations are blessed with the opportunity to raise their families and prosper in this great and beautiful place we call home,” Rosenello said in a statement.
“Our county faces significant challenges, including housing affordability, improving education, protecting our beaches and expanding year-round economic opportunities. I am eager to get to work with my fellow commissioners to address these concerns,” he continued.
Rosenello will serve the remainder of Collette’s term, which expires December 31, 2026. Collette resigned as commissioner in March to become the county’s new public information officer.
A nearly lifelong Cape May County resident, Rosenello moved to North Wildwood from Levittown, Pa., as a young boy. He attended Wildwood Catholic High School and graduated from Catholic University of America in 1995.
Rosenello began his career in public service as a legislative aide to Republican Congresswoman Sue Kelly and later served as communications director for former New Jersey state Sen. Nick Asselta.
He served on the North Wildwood school board before being elected to the North Wildwood City Council in 2004.
He was a member of City Council for 10 years, including nine as president of the governing body.
Moving on from Council, he became the 17th mayor of North Wildwood on January 7, 2014, and served in that role for 12 years before returning to City Council in 2026.
He has also served on community boards and organizations, including the Greater Wildwood Little League, Wildwood Catholic Advisory Council, Naval Air Station Wildwood, Cape May County Bridge Commission, Cape May County Open Space Board, and the North Wildwood Joint Planning Board.
“Patrick Rosenello brings a wealth of experience to this role and shares the commissioners’ deep commitment to a better Cape May County,” Commission Director Leonard Desiderio said. “His proven leadership as mayor of North Wildwood and dedication to improving all of our communities make him an excellent addition to the board. We look forward to working together to address the challenges and opportunities facing our county.”
