State Issues

SHBP Plan Design Committee Special Meeting on September 18

The State Health Benefits Commission Plan Design Committee will hold a Special Meeting on Thursday, September 18.

Read more: SHBP Plan Design Committee Special Meeting on September 18

Contacts: Lori Buckelew, Deputy Executive Director, lbuckelew@njlm.org, 609-695-3481, x112, and Erin Knoedler, Legislative Analyst, eknoedler@njlm.org, 609-695-3481, x116.

Governor Murphy Signs Affordable Housing Bill into Law 

On September 11, Governor Murphy signed S-2506/A-2390 into law, requiring that municipalities in compliance with affordable housing obligations be provided priority consideration for certain State grants and assistance.  

Read more: Governor Murphy Signs Affordable Housing Bill into Law 

Contact: Sadayah Q. DuRant-Brown, Legislative Counsel, sdurantbrown@njlm.org, 609-695-3481, x137.

NJEDA Adopts New Rules and Amendments Establishing New Jersey Aspire Program 

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) has published a notice of special adoption of new rules and amendments to implement the provisions of the New Jersey Economic Recovery Act of 2020, establishing the New Jersey Aspire Program. On January 23, Governor Murphy signed S-1323 into law, which revised various provisions of the Aspire  Program.    

Read more: NJEDA Adopts New Rules and Amendments Establishing New Jersey Aspire Program 

Contact: Sadayah Q. DuRant-Brown, Legislative Counsel, sdurantbrown@njlm.org, 609-695-3481, x137.

NJ Municipalities Blog: Plainfield Hosts Music Festival & Promotes Health  

This week’s NJ Municipalities blog shares how the City of Plainfield promotes entertainment and health education at the Lenny Cathcart House Music Festival.

Plainfield sets the stage each year for a celebration of house music that also serves as a healthcare information space. Entering its 5th year, the event has a new name: the Lenny Cathcart House Music Festival.  

Want to share your local story? Please send in your 300- to 1,000-word items and photos to Editor Amy Spiezio at aspiezio@njlm.org.   

Contact: Amy Spiezio, Editor, aspiezio@njlm.org, 609-695-3481, x123.  

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Grant Opportunity 

Municipalities have the opportunity to apply for the Electronic Monitoring and Reporting (EMR) Grant Program 2025-2026. 

Read more: National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Grant Opportunity 

Contact: Ciara Bradley, Research Associate, cbradley@njlm.org, 609-695-3481, x128.

Electric School Bus Grant Opportunity: 2^nd Round Due Soon 

The second round of the Electric School Bus Grant Program funding is due on September 26. Required elements include zoning approvals, site planning, and permitting for charging infrastructure. 

Read more: Electric School Bus Grant Opportunity: 2^nd Round Due Soon 

Contact: Ciara Bradley, Research Associate, cbradley@njlm.org, 609-695-3481, x128.

Federal Issues

Federal Budget Expires on September 30 

As we reported a few weeks ago, the federal budget expires on September 30. House and Senate leaders are expected to announce a short-term funding extension, and it is anticipated that they will attempt to pass it later this week.  

Read more: Federal Budget Expires on September 30 

Contact: Paul Penna, Director of Government Affairs, ppenna@njlm.org, 609-695-3481, x110.

Conference Connections

Conference Hotel Deadline Approaches 

The League's room blocks, which close on October 10, provide the best rates and shuttle bus service to the AC Convention Center along with payment by purchase order. Ensure your best Conference experience, book your housing for the Annual Conference now. 

Check for Session Updates 

The Annual Conference Session Schedule has been expanding over the past weeks as details are finalized and CEU credits are approved. Please visit often to confirm your session planning. 

Plan Your Exhibit Hall  Visits  

Plan now to maximize your networking opportunities by reviewing the Exhibit Hall interactive map. The Exhibit Hall will be four aisles larger this year to create an even more informative and inspiring experience for attendees.  

NJLMEF Plans Session on Hometown Security & Human Trafficking 

This year, on Tuesday at 9:00 a.m., the NJLM Educational Foundation (NJLMEF) will hold its annual kick-off event with a focus on Hometown Security & Human Trafficking. The event, which includes breakfast, is free, but registration is required and will open next month. 

Get Your Tickets for League Events Today 

On Wednesday, the Mayors’ Lunch Briefing will welcome state department heads and will also recognize the nominees for the Mayors’ Hall of Fame for 10, 20, or 30+ years of service, and nominated Elected Officials with at least 20 years of service. Fee: $30.  

Also, on Wednesday, show your support for women’s outstanding achievements at the Women in Municipal Government Networking & Awards Event from 5:15 to 6:30 p.m. Fee: $35   

On Thursday, the Annual Conference ends with the League Delegates Luncheon, which puts you in the room with League and State leadership. Fee: $45.  

Tickets can be purchased during the registration process or added later by editing your existing Conference registration. Only those with a Conference badge may attend the ticketed events.   

Apply for the Innovation in Governance Program   

The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) and the New Jersey League of Municipalities (NJLM) are accepting applications for the  Innovation in Governance through our annual recognition program through Friday, October 3, 2025.  

Showcase innovative solutions developed in your municipality. Visit our awards page to see previous years’ ideas created by our winning municipalities, as well as the full invitation and application to this year’s program. For more information on the contest, contact Ciara Bradley, League Research Associate, CBradley@njlm.org, 609-695-3481,  x128.   

Also of Interest

NJ Municipalities Magazine: Watch for Renewal Emails   

Our new subscription system is rolling out to ensure we have a smooth transition. Those who have an email address on file have been emailed their subscription renewals. Ask your staff to check their inboxes for renewal notifications. The new online system will make it easier for subscribers to update and manage their subscriptions online throughout the year. If your subscription is part of a group subscription, renewals have been sent to the person responsible for managing your group.  

Not a subscriber yet? Visit the League's website to sign up before the October issue mails.

Contact: Tasneem Kapadia, Advertising & Subscription Manager, tkapadia@njlm.org, 609-695-3481, x121.