Monmouth-Jersey Shore Merger

Uniting Resources, Expanding Opportunities, Strengthening Scouting

On Tuesday, September 16, 2025, the Monmouth Council Executive Committee, and on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, the Jersey Shore Council Executive Board, each unanimously voted to form a joint Merger Study Committee. These discussions aim to address shared challenges-including declining membership, volunteer shortages, and financial constraints-that are impacting Scouting councils nationwide. The primary goal of the merger study committee is to strengthen Scouting in New Jersey by combining resources-camp properties, volunteers, and staff-and enhancing support for local programs that serve families across Atlantic, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean Counties and portions of Burlington and Cape May Counties.

Key Factors Driving the Merger Discussions:

• Increased Efficiency: A larger, combined council can reduce administrative duplication, streamline operations, and dedicate more resources to youth programs.

• Financial Stability: Merging budgets strengthens long-term financial sustainability and supports the upkeep of valuable camping facilities.

• Post-Pandemic Recovery: COVID-19 significantly impacted Scout councils, and a merger offers an opportunity to regroup, rebuild, and grow.

• Brand Evolution: With the organization rebranding as Scouting America in 2025 to emphasize inclusion, a merger helps establish a more unified and recognizable structure for the new brand.

If you have any questions, please contact your local Scout Executive listed below:

CONTACT:

MONMOUTH COUNCIL Michael P. Mahon (732)851-8219 michael.mahon@scouting.org

JERSEY SHORE COUNCIL James Gillick (732) 349-1037 james.gillick@scouting.org