HAMPTON TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Sussex County) — Sussex County officials hosted the first Mayors’ Meeting of 2026 on Feb. 21, bringing together municipal and county leaders to discuss plans for celebrating America’s 250th anniversary and other county updates.
Commissioner Director Jill Space and Deputy Director Jack DeGroot led the meeting at the Hampton Diner. The gatherings were launched in 2023 by Commissioner Chris Carney to provide a forum for local officials to network, share ideas and receive county updates.
County officials said 20 of Sussex County’s 24 municipalities were represented, marking a record turnout. In addition to mayors and municipal officials, attendees included Sen. Parker Space, Assemblymembers Dawn Fantasia and Michael Inganamort, Sheriff Mike Strada and Sussex County Historian Bill Truan.
The meeting focused primarily on Sussex County’s plans to mark the nation’s 250th anniversary. Deputy County Administrator Lorraine Hentz presented details about a countywide celebration scheduled for June 7, 2026, at the Sussex County Fairgrounds in Frankford.
Officials said municipalities will have opportunities to participate and highlight their local history and connections to the American Revolution.
Truan also discussed efforts to commemorate Revolutionary War figures from Sussex County, including working with the Daughters of the American Revolution to identify individuals who served in the war and place markers at their gravesites.
Assemblymembers Fantasia and Inganamort provided a legislative update, outlining issues currently before the state Legislature.
Strada briefed attendees on preparations for a projected winter storm expected to impact New Jersey, including coordination by the county’s Office of Emergency Management and Department of Public Works.
County officials said the next Mayors’ Meeting is expected to take place in the second quarter of 2026.
