Mercer County Parks Under Investigation By State Attorney General

Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes acknowledged the Attorney General’s investigation of the Mercer County Park Commission and the Friends of Mercer County Parks on Thursday.

Saying recent news reports have caused him “great concern,” Hughes said he will be meeting with leaders from both entities to discuss his concerns.

“Even though there was an audit performed by Friends of Mercer County Parks in 2015, I am requesting that a second comprehensive audit be conducted to confirm the findings and provide recommendations,” Hughes said. “Finally, I will request the implementation of any recommendations for improvements found through the audit.”

The investigation targeted the Hunt House in Hopewell, and the Tennis Center in West Windsor, according to the Princeton Packet.

The Attorney General’s Office has not publicly acknowledged the investigation, and Hughes couldn’t provide specifics as to what was being investigated.

Hughes reiterated that there are no allegations of impropriety by any individual associated with either the Mercer County Park Commission or the Friends of Mercer County Parks.

“Mercer County Government upholds and adheres to the highest standards of transparency and ethics and I expect those standards to be met by each and every Mercer County employee and board member,” Hughes said. “ … The award-winning Mercer County park system is the crown jewel of this county and is by far the best park system in the state. I will ensure the Mercer County Park Commission and all entities related to our park system uphold the ethical standards that are hallmarks of my administration and that are expected by the taxpayers of this great county.”

Mercer County parks host many high-profile events, including Olympic Rowing Trials, NCAA Rowing, NJ Triathlon, concerts, fairs, festivals and more.