Morristown opened 2026 on a note of ceremony, reflection, and renewed leadership as the Morris County Board of County Commissioners gathered for its annual reorganization meeting, a night that blended the formal business of county government with a sweeping look ahead to a milestone year in American history.

New Leadership and Reorganization – The Morris County Board of County Commissioners held its annual reorganization meeting on January 2, 2026, where several officials were sworn in: 

• Stephen H. Shaw: Succeeded Tayfun Selen as Director of the Board of County Commissioners.
• John Krickus: Assumed the role of Deputy Director.
• Re-elected Commissioners: Douglas R. Cabana, Thomas J. Mastrangelo, and Christine Myers took their oaths for new three-year terms.
• Sheriff James M. Gannon: Sworn in for a fourth three-year term.
• Civic Presence: U.S. Representative Thomas H. Kean Jr. administered the oaths for several officials, while the Denville Town Crier, Douglas Gabel, formally announced the start of the 250th-anniversary year

Held on the fifth floor of the Administration and Records Building, the evening marked the official installation of new board leadership, the swearing-in of reelected officials, and a spirited public proclamation recognizing the 250th anniversary of American independence. Together, these moments framed the year as both a continuation of public service and a once-in-a-generation opportunity to honor the nation’s roots—many of which are deeply embedded in Morris County’s own landscape.

Commissioner Stephen H. Shaw was sworn in as director of the board, with Commissioner John Krickus taking the role of deputy director. Both men return to leadership positions they have previously held, bringing continuity and institutional memory to a board tasked with guiding the county through a year that will place New Jersey, and particularly Morris County, in the national spotlight.

Director Shaw, a lifelong New Jersey resident now serving his third term on the board, spoke to the significance of leading during a landmark anniversary year. He emphasized the collective strength of the commissioners, noting that differing viewpoints and lively discussion ultimately sharpen public policy and strengthen county government. He also highlighted the hundreds of residents who volunteer on advisory boards, commissions, and committees, crediting them as the backbone of Morris County’s civic life.

That sense of history came vividly to life when Denville Town Crier Douglas Gabel stepped forward in traditional garb to issue proclamations in the style of colonial-era America. His booming announcements served as both a nod to the past and a call to action, encouraging municipalities and residents to take part in countywide programs planned in recognition of the nation’s 250th anniversary. The moment underscored Morris County’s unique position as a crossroads of Revolutionary War history and contemporary civic engagement.

Deputy Director Krickus, a member of the board since 2020 and former director, reflected on the county’s reputation for efficient, well-managed government. He highlighted the commissioners’ ongoing investments in education, particularly at the County College of Morris and within the Morris County Vocational School District, reinforcing the board’s commitment to workforce development and long-term economic strength.

The evening also included the swearing-in of fellow commissioners Douglas R. Cabana, Thomas J. Mastrangelo, and Christine Myers, each returning to serve new three-year terms following reelection in November. Their collective experience spans decades of public service, providing stability at a time when Morris County is poised to host cultural, historical, and community programming throughout the semiquincentennial year.

Sheriff James M. Gannon was sworn into his fourth term, continuing his leadership of county law enforcement. His reappointment maintains continuity within the Sheriff’s Office, which plays a central role in public safety, emergency response, and ceremonial functions across Morris County.

The ceremony itself reflected the county’s blend of tradition and community pride. A color guard procession led by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Joint Honor Guard opened the evening, accompanied by bagpipes performed by the Police Pipes and Drums of Morris County. The National Anthem was performed by a senior from the Morris County Vocational School District’s Academy for Performing Arts, and local clergy offered the invocation and benediction, weaving together civic duty, education, and faith.

A moment of silence brought the room together in remembrance of two figures who left lasting marks on the region. The board honored Desmond Lloyd, a beloved Morristown restaurateur and community leader whose business and charitable efforts spanned decades, as well as former U.S. Representative Richard “Dick” Zimmer, who represented parts of Morris County in both state and federal office. Their remembrance added a reflective note to an evening otherwise focused on forward momentum.

Beyond the formal proceedings, the reorganization meeting set the tone for a year that will celebrate Morris County’s outsized role in American history. From Morristown National Historical Park to the communities that once hosted Continental Army encampments, the county remains a living classroom for the nation’s founding story. Residents and visitors alike can explore exhibitions, performances, lectures, and community programs that will roll out throughout the year, many of which will be highlighted through regional cultural initiatives connected to Explore New Jersey’s art and culture coverage.

As Morris County begins 2026 with new leadership and a renewed sense of purpose, the message from the board was clear: the year ahead will be about honoring history while continuing to invest in education, public service, and community life. With a full calendar of commemorative events, public meetings, and cultural programming on the horizon, the county is positioning itself as both a steward of the past and an active architect of New Jersey’s future.

250th Anniversary Launch. The county’s Semiquincentennial celebrations officially began with an expanded First Night Morris County on New Year’s Eve, featuring over 80 performances across 20 venues in Morristown. 

• Revolutionary Programming: Events highlighted the county’s pivotal role in the American Revolution, including the “Pathways of History” showcase and exhibits at Macculloch Hall.
• Year-Long Schedule: Major upcoming events for 2026 include:
  • Spring Encampment at Jockey Hollow: Re-enactments and cannon fire at Morristown National Historical Park (May 3–4).
  • Pathways of History Tour: Featuring 29 organizations across 20 municipalities in both spring and fall.
  • Lafayette Farewell Tour: Scheduled for summer 2026 to mark the 200th anniversary of the General’s return to the region.
  • Independence Day: A major focus for the countdown to July 4, 2026. 

For more information and a complete calendar of events, visit the official Morris County 250th website.