Middlesex County, New Jersey Commissioners Launch 2025 with Reorganization

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MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ – The Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners held its annual Reorganization Meeting on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at the Middlesex College Performing Arts Center. The event was a celebration of the county’s 2024 achievements and a look toward the future, with prominent figures such as Governor Phil Murphy and Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin joining local officials, community leaders, and residents in attendance. The evening featured the swearing-in of Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios and Commissioner Deputy Director Shanti Narra, who both began their terms for 2025.

Reflecting on a Year of Progress

In his opening remarks, Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios highlighted the county’s ongoing commitment to innovation and its focus on improving the quality of life for all residents.

“The primary mission of the Board of County Commissioners is to serve every person who lives or works in Middlesex County. We do that by innovating daily and in every way possible,” Rios stated. “In 2024, we worked tirelessly to create opportunities, strengthen our communities, and build a brighter future. As we step into 2025, we remain steadfast in our mission to innovate and lead while constantly looking for new and better ways to serve our residents and business community.”

Building a Stronger Future Through Education

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One of the standout initiatives discussed at the meeting was the Community, Innovation, and Opportunity (CIO) Strategic Investment Plan, which is transforming the Middlesex College campus. The plan includes the construction of a new Student Center, Middlesex County Magnet School, and a Multipurpose Venue. The groundbreaking for these projects is set for later this month.

In addition, the county’s partnership with Rutgers University continues to grow, as the dual admissions agreement, announced in 2024, provides students from Middlesex College with a seamless academic pathway to Rutgers.

“We are deeply committed to providing quality education and real-world training opportunities for our students,” Rios added. “Through our partnerships, including one with the Heldrich Hotel and Conference Center, we’re giving students valuable, hands-on experience in hospitality, and we’re expanding healthcare career pathways through our collaboration with RWJBarnabas Health.”

Driving Innovation and Economic Growth

Middlesex County’s vision for the future also includes a strong focus on innovation and technology. Commissioner Rios announced that the Health and Life Science Exchange (HELIX) H1 facility, set to open in 2025, will house state-of-the-art facilities including the New Jersey Innovation Hub and Nokia Bell Labs, solidifying the county’s role as a leader in cutting-edge technology.

Further enhancing the county’s reputation as a hub for innovation, a new Network Operations Center will open in 2025 to support DataCity, the county’s autonomous and smart mobility initiative. Additionally, Middlesex County is taking steps to shape the future of artificial intelligence by working with New Jersey State Senator Andrew Zwicker to convene experts and stakeholders to address the evolving AI landscape.

Prioritizing Quality of Life

As part of its ongoing commitment to improving the lives of its residents, Middlesex County has introduced several new services and programs. In 2024, the county launched Behavioral Health Navigators and 24-hour Healthcare Kiosks to ensure residents have access to both mental and physical health support. Transportation options were also expanded with the introduction of the RIDE On Demand pilot program, offering more flexible and affordable commuting choices.

Cultural enrichment is another key area of focus for the county. Middlesex County recently launched MiddlesexCountyCulture.com, an online hub for cultural events and resources.

The county also achieved significant milestones in public safety in 2024. The Middlesex County Sheriff’s Office received re-accreditation from the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police for the fourth time, a distinction held by fewer than 8% of law enforcement agencies in the state. The Office of Adult Corrections and Youth Services earned the prestigious Pinnacle Award for its outstanding programs in jail health, mental health, and opioid treatment.

Strong Partnerships and Shared Vision

The evening also underscored the power of collaboration, as local, state, and county leaders came together to celebrate the county’s achievements. Governor Phil Murphy praised Director Rios and Deputy Director Narra for their leadership and continued dedication to the county.

“Congratulations to Director Rios and Deputy Director Narra on returning to the Board of Commissioners for another term,” Governor Murphy said. “I look forward to working together and striving toward our common goal of ensuring New Jersey remains the best in the nation to live, work, and raise a family.”

Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin echoed this sentiment, calling Middlesex County a “powerhouse of innovation, growth, and community spirit.” He emphasized the county’s forward-thinking initiatives and the importance of collaboration in fostering long-term success.

A Vision for the Future

As the meeting concluded, Commissioner Director Rios reaffirmed the county’s commitment to continuing its trajectory of growth and innovation.

“Just like we said in 2017 in our brand launch, Middlesex County is where history meets innovation,” Rios concluded. “We are clear about where we want this county to be in the future, we know exactly how we’re getting there, and we are boldly making it happen.”

With a focus on education, innovation, infrastructure, and quality of life, Middlesex County is poised for an even brighter 2025, building on a solid foundation of achievement and a shared vision for progress.

For more information on the Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners and its initiatives, visit middlesexcountynj.gov.

About Middlesex County

Middlesex County is home to over 860,000 residents across 25 municipalities and is a leader in life sciences, transportation, and workforce development. The county hosts numerous Fortune 500 companies, three universities, 19 county parks, and world-class healthcare and research facilities. It is one of the most diverse counties in the country and a hub for education and economic growth. For more information, visit middlesexcountynj.gov.

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