Millburn Candidate Profile For 2025 Town Committee Election: Michael Cohen

MILLBURN, NJ — The Millburn Town Committee race is hitting the home stretch, with four candidates competing for two open seats in 2025.

Incumbents Annette Romano and Michael Cohen, both Democrats, face a challenge from Republican candidates Jamie Serruto and Kris Heinrichs.

Patch reached out to each candidate with the same set of questions. Michael Cohen’s replies follow below. Learn more about his campaign here, and see his social media campaign page here.

Learn more about voting in Millburn’s upcoming election here.

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PATCH: What background or professional experience qualifies you for the job?

MICHAEL COHEN: As a 36-year resident of the Brookhaven-Glenwood neighborhood, I’ve had the privilege of raising two sons in the Millburn public schools with my wife, Meryl Stone, a dedicated paraprofessional with the Millburn Board of Education. We’re now proud grandparents—and even prouder Millburn residents.

My professional background blends mathematics, finance, and technology. With an MBA from Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management and a successful career at JPMorgan Chase, I’ve always believed in using data-driven strategies to serve the public good. I bring a pragmatic and fiscally responsible approach to leadership—ensuring every tax dollar is maximized for the benefit of Millburn families.

Since being elected to the Township Committee, I’ve provided strategic financial leadership and played a key role on numerous boards and committees, including: Planning Board, Millburn Free Public Library, Cora Hartshorn Arboretum, Zoning Code Advisory Committee, Joint Fields Committee, Township Finance Committee.

These roles have allowed me to shape smart, long-term solutions that reflect both community values and fiscal responsibility.

PATCH: What is your campaign platform? What are your priorities if elected?

MICHAEL COHEN: My campaign is rooted in proven leadership and results. During my first term, I focused on practical, community-driven goals—and together, we’ve made real progress:

• Flood Mitigation That Works: Spearheaded major drainage improvements in South Mountain and Glenwood—while safeguarding the ecological integrity of the Cora Hartshorn Arboretum.
• Public Safety: Advocated for increased funding for police officers and advanced public safety technology, contributing to a measurable drop in crime rates.
• Modernizing Public Spaces: Led smart, fiscally responsible upgrades to Town Hall and the Library’s second floor—ensuring transparency and community input throughout the process.
• Supporting Local Business: Championed the continued success of Explore Millburn-Short Hills, helping local businesses grow and thrive in a competitive landscape.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to build on this momentum with my running mate, Annette Romano, focusing on the following priorities:

• Creating a Community Center: Transforming the current temporary Town Hall building into a vibrant community space.
• Enhancing Recreational Fields: Expanding field capacity and usability for youth and adult recreation programs.
• Preserving Local History: Proactively researching and preserving historic properties identified in the Township Master Plan.
• Zoning Reform: Continuing to modernize our zoning code to provide clarity, protect neighborhoods, and support thoughtful development.

PATCH: What is one thing that always makes you smile when you think about Millburn?

MICHAEL COHEN: What always brings a smile to my face is how Millburn continues to evolve.

Yes, we’re known for our top-tier schools and our world-class shopping—but in recent years, I’ve seen something even more exciting: a growing sense of diversity, culture, and vibrancy.

From summer concerts and community events to a revitalized downtown that’s drawing visitors and supporting our local businesses, Millburn is becoming a true destination—not just for shopping or schools, but for quality of life. And that’s something we can all be proud of.

It's been a tremendous first term and I look forward to continuing in office. Please vote for myself and Annette Romano on Tuesday, November 4th, as we continue to move Millburn forward.

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