An official in New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie's Cabinet has resigned.

Department of Community Affairs Commissioner Lori Grifa announced she's returning to the private sector in January.

Christie said Monday he'll nominate Deputy Labor Commissioner Richard Constable to head the agency responsible for affordable housing, rental and home heating assistance, Urban Enterprise Zones and more.

Constable worked under Christie at the U.S. Attorney's Office then, like several others, was recruited to join the administration.

His nomination requires Senate confirmation.

Earlier this month, state Board of Public Utilities President Lee Solomon announced he was returning to being a judge.

Christie says Cabinet officers have till year's end to decide whether they'll stay another two years through his first term.

He says one or two more may decide to leave.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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