New Mayor Appointed In Mendham, Officially Succeeding Glassner

MENDHAM, NJ — After weeks of uncertainty following Mayor Christine Serrano Glassner's resignation, Mendham has finally chosen its new leader.

At this week's council meeting, the all-Republican, six-member Mendham Borough Council officially swore in Jim Kelly as the new mayor, following Council President Neil Sullivan's role as temporary leader after Mayor Christine Serrano Glassner's resignation.

Christine Serrano Glassner, Mendham's first female mayor, resigned on Feb. 7 after accepting a position in the Trump Administration.

Glassner, whose husband, Michael Glassner, served as Donald Trump's deputy campaign manager, did not specify the role she will be taking and could not be reached for comment. However, a report by the New Jersey Globe indicated that she is expected to join the White House's Office of Intergovernmental Affairs.

"It has been my great pleasure to serve such a wonderful town and with such amazing people. I wish you and our Boro team the very best ahead and know that I am always just a phone call away," Glassner said.

As part of the process, the local Republican Committee submitted the names of potential candidates to the council for review. Council President Neil Sullivan reviewed the candidates, and on Feb. 24, the council voted to appoint Jim Kelly as mayor.

The vote was unanimous, 4-0, with Kelly recusing himself from voting.

Kelly has been a member of the Borough Council for six years, having previously served as Council President and Chair of the Finance Committee during his tenure.

"Transparency and open communication are the cornerstones of our governance… Together, we will navigate this transition and continue to build a strong and vibrant future for Mendham Borough," the council previously told residents in a memo.

The council is focused on key priorities, including meeting state deadlines for affordable housing planning while preserving the borough’s character, enhancing Parks and Recreation programs for all ages, and working with Public Safety Director Craig and Officer-in-Charge McNichol on long-term police department planning to ensure resident safety.