MORRISTOWN, N.J. (Morris County) — Assemblywoman Aura Dunn convened municipal leaders this week for her annual meeting aimed at strengthening connections between local governments and state agencies.
Held at her district office, the gathering brought together a dozen mayors from Legislative District 25 along with representatives from several state departments to discuss resources and address local concerns.
“What began as a way to finally bring people together in person to discuss challenges and opportunities after Covid has evolved into an annual tradition, because getting everyone in the same room is often the best way to form professional relationships and solve problems,” Dunn (R-Morris) explained.
Officials from the Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Community Affairs, Department of Labor, Department of Environmental Protection and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority participated, providing information on programs and answering questions from local leaders.
“This meeting is a very proactive session. It breaks down barriers, erases party lines, and shines a spotlight on the issues municipal leaders are facing in the upcoming year,” Dunn said. “Every town I represent is unique; no challenge is exactly the same. As much as I host the gathering for the benefit of local officials, it also helps me gain a deeper appreciation of the people and places I have the honor of serving.”
Mayors and representatives from Boonton Township, Harding, Jefferson, Madison, Mendham Borough, Morris Township, Mount Arlington, Randolph, Rockaway Township, Victory Gardens and Wharton attended the session.
Discussions focused on topics including affordable housing, small business loans and grants, veteran benefits and other state resources available to municipalities and residents.
“We are all here to help the residents we represent, so we need to be able to work together and communicate. Creating personal connections and tackling issues collectively helps us better serve our communities. It is something I wish all elected officials would do,” Dunn said.
