The information contained in this article is not intended as legal advice and may no longer be accurate due to changes in the law. Consult NHMA's legal services or your municipal attorney.
As I settled into my new role as Interim Executive Director of NHMA, I’ve found myself reflecting on what helps people and organizations navigate change with confidence.
If there’s one thing leadership transitions remind us, it’s that organizations are powered by people. As NHMA begins a new chapter, I’ve found myself thinking not only about where we’re headed, but also about how we get there. The answer isn’t just good planning or strong leadership; it’s also healthy, resilient people. Taking care of our physical and mental well-being isn’t separate from serving our communities; it’s what allows us to do that work well, especially during times of change. This issue of Town & City features articles from HealthTrust that talk about how to support employees as people, not just workers.
Of course, the September/October issue also means NHMA’s Annual Conference is right around the corner. The event takes place at the Downtown Doubletree Hotel in Manchester on October 28-29, and registration is open! In addition to our usual two days of educational sessions and jam-packed Exhibit Hall, Wednesday night features the NHMA Fair at which you will enjoy a social hour, a buffet dinner featuring classic fair favorites, games, and sweet treats from vendors, including cotton candy. Like any New Hampshire fair, it’s the people who make it special. We hope you’ll join us for two days of networking, learning, and fun with NHMA staff and your municipal colleagues from across the state.
Additionally, NHMA will hold its biennial Legislative Principles and Policies Conference on September 11. At this conference, modeled on a traditional town meeting, our member municipalities each get one vote to determine NHMA’s Legislative Principles and Policies, which will serve as a guidepost for our Advocacy Team over the next two years. Speaking of legislation, after the legislative session ended in June, the Legal Services Team drafted several guidance documents on key law changes affecting cities and towns, which can be found on our website. As always, we continue to offer a plethora of educational opportunities for local officials. You can check out our 2026 Events At a Glance or visit our Events Calendar to learn more and register.
We hope you enjoyed the summer and look forward to seeing or hearing from you as we wind down another busy, rewarding year serving New Hampshire’s cities and towns.