Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners Hosts 2026 Reorganization Meeting

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MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ - On Wednesday, January 7, 2026, the Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners held their annual Swearing-In Ceremony and Reorganization Meeting at the Middlesex College Performing Arts Center, marking a moment of reflection on the County's accomplishments in 2025 and setting the stage for bold initiatives in 2026. The ceremony brought together federal, state, and local leaders, including Governor Phil Murphy, Governor-Elect Mikie Sherrill, and Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin, along with community stakeholders and residents from across the County. The meeting also featured the swearing-in ceremonies of newly re-elected County Commissioners Claribel A. Azcona-Barber, Charles Kenny, and Chanelle Scott McCullum, as well as constitutional officers County Clerk Nancy J. Pinkin and Sheriff Mildred S. Scott.

Following the Swearing-In Ceremony, County Commissioner Ronald G. Rios was re-elected by his colleagues to serve as the Director of the Board, and County Commissioner Shanti Narra was likewise re-elected to serve as the Board's Deputy Director. In his keynote address, Director Rios reflected on a historic year defined by strategic, future-focused investments that continue to enhance residents' quality of life and solidify the County's position as a leading regional destination.

"Our Board has a clear vision, anchored by a strong financial foundation and a steadfast commitment to delivering high-quality services to our residents," said Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios. "We recognized that to grow our economy, create new opportunities for residents and businesses, and remain sustainable for generations to come, we had to invest in our infrastructure and our community."

Additionally, state leaders echoed their support for Middlesex County's vision in their remarks.

"Congratulations to Middlesex County's elected officials as they begin a new year of service," said Governor Phil Murphy. "Serving our communities is a privilege, and I know this Board will continue to demonstrate its commitment to strengthening opportunities and growing the economy for the constituents of Middlesex County through unwavering dedication, compassion, and meaningful leadership."

"Congratulations to County Commissioners Claribel Azcona-Barber, Charles Kenny, and Chanelle Scott McCullum, County Clerk Nancy J. Pinkin, and Sheriff Mildred S. Scott on their election, and congratulations to Director Ronald Rios, and Deputy Director Shanti Narra on their re-elections," said Governor-Elect Mikie Sherrill. "Across our state we are facing serious challenges - and I commend these public servants for stepping up to serve their communities. It was an honor to participate in their swearing-in ceremony, and I look forward to having a productive relationship with our local leaders as we deliver for residents."

"Middlesex County continues to show what is possible when we work with purpose and when every level of government pulls in the same direction," said Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin. "By embracing a forward-looking vision that strengthens communities and expands opportunity for the people who call them home, Middlesex County is setting the pace for the rest of the state. Our progress reflects that commitment, and I am proud to stand with the leaders sworn in this year who share my belief that all of our communities deserve the chance to grow, thrive, and reach their full potential."

Powering Communities Through Education and Modern Infrastructure

Looking ahead, Commissioner Director Rios emphasized that 2026 will be an extraordinary year for Middlesex County, with the grand opening of new facilities and the continued advancement of infrastructure projects that will further advance economic growth and regional competitiveness.

Central to that momentum is the County's Community, Innovation, and Opportunity (CIO) Strategic Investment Plan, which is transforming the Middlesex College campus into a premier destination for education, recreation, arts, and community engagement. Multiple projects that are part of the CIO Plan are currently under construction, including the Middlesex County Innovation Magnet School, the Multipurpose Community Venue, the Middlesex College Student Center, and the Destination Athletic Complex at Thomas A. Edison Park - with doors projected to open in late 2026.

Middlesex County also continued to advance landmark infrastructure and innovation initiatives that strengthen its life sciences, healthcare, and transportation sectors. These include the opening of the Jack & Sheryl Morris Cancer Center this past May, continued construction of the New Jersey Health Life Science Exchange (HELIX) - New Jersey's premier health, life sciences, and technology campus, slated to open in the summer - and the modernization of the New Brunswick Train Station, which began in September 2025, to improve the safety, accessibility, and connectivity for residents and visitors alike.

Together, these projects represent a coordinated strategy to attract investment, create jobs, support workforce development, and reinforce the County's role as an economic engine for New Jersey and the Northeast.

Enhancing Quality of Life - Today and for the Future

With continued fiscal strength, including another AAA bond rating, Middlesex County remains committed to making strategic investments that enhance education, infrastructure, sustainability, arts and culture, and transportation. From introducing new artificial intelligence pathways at County educational institutions to developing a clean-energy microgrid to power the entire Middlesex College campus, the County is advancing future-ready solutions that will benefit residents today and generations to come.

On behalf of the Board of County Commissioners, Commissioner Director Rios concluded by congratulating the newly elected officials and thanking County partners, board members, volunteers, and dedicated County employees whose collective efforts made 2025's achievements and a resilient future possible.

"We are - and will continue to be - an economic powerhouse in New Jersey and a sought-after destination in the Northeast," said Commissioner Director Rios. "We're not just creating possibilities; we're shaping a future full of opportunities. From where we stand, our horizon is endless, and we know the best is yet to come in Middlesex County."

For more information, please visit middlesexcountynj.gov.

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