On Friday, December 5, mayors from across New Jersey gathered in Middlesex County for a morning of learning, leadership, and meaningful connection at NJCM’s year-end Policy to Practice program and New Mayor Breakfast. Hosted at the Hilton East Brunswick, the event welcomed current, newly elected, and re-elected mayors, along with members of the broader business community, for timely discussion and peer-to-peer engagement focused on the issues shaping New Jersey’s municipalities.

The morning began with NJCM’s Policy to Practice educational session, Municipal Healthcare Benefits, which delivered practical insights and actionable strategies on one of the most pressing topics facing local leaders. Moderator Mayor Paul Muir led a thoughtful and informative discussion featuring Mayor Colleen Mahr, Joseph Ablahani of Capital Benefits, and Matthew Watkins of NJ Community Solutions. The panel provided a comprehensive look at healthcare trends, cost-management strategies, and collaborative approaches that municipalities can consider as they work to support employees while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

Following the program, attendees continued the conversation over breakfast during an engaging leadership dialogue hosted by NJCM President Mayor Jason Cilento. A distinguished panel of mayors—including Mayor Jamila Odom Bremmer, Mayor Robert Conley, Mayor Quinton Law, Mayor Al Ferro, and Mayor Marie Galate—shared perspectives on leadership, collaboration, and the evolving priorities of their communities. The discussion offered an opportunity for mayors to exchange ideas, build relationships, and learn from one another’s experiences in an open and collegial setting.

Together, the Policy to Practice session and the New Mayor Breakfast provided municipal leaders with practical tools, innovative strategies, and strengthened connections that support effective governance across the state. NJCM extends its sincere appreciation to its Policy Advocates—Comcast, Capital Benefits, LLC, and NJ Community Solutions, LLC—for their generous support in making this program possible. By bringing together mayors and the NJCM Business Council for thoughtful dialogue and shared learning, NJCM continues to foster collaboration and amplify a unified voice for New Jersey’s communities as the year comes to a close.