Nick Sacco Will Not Seek Re-Election in May 2027
Mayor Nick Sacco will conclude a 35-year tenure in May 2027, endorsing Hugo Cabrera as his successor for the leadership role.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in City Hall
Live Poll
Should local voters choose mayors directly rather than having them appointed by commissioners?
After 41 years in public office, North Bergen Mayor Nick Sacco announced that he will not run for re-election in the May 2027 municipal election. He has endorsed Parks and Public Property Commissioner Hugo Cabrera to take over as mayor.
Why it matters
The transition marks a significant shift for the township, as the Board of Commissioners will appoint a new mayor to succeed Sacco, who has led the community for over three decades.
North Bergen is governed by a five-member Board of Commissioners, with each official serving a four-year term. The board members are responsible for selecting the mayor from among themselves.
The players
Nick Sacco
He is the outgoing Mayor of North Bergen who has served the community for 35 years.
Hugo Cabrera
He serves as the Parks and Public Property Commissioner and has been Sacco's running mate since 1999.
Larry Wainstein
He is an Assemblyman and an announced candidate for the upcoming mayoral election.
The details
Mayor Sacco announced his retirement at the annual mayor's ball, naming his long-time running mate since 1999, Hugo Cabrera, as his preferred successor. Assemblyman Larry Wainstein has also emerged as a candidate for the upcoming mayoral election.
Timeline
Cabrera began serving as Sacco's running mate in 1999.
A special board of commissioners meeting is proposed for October 28, 2026.
The next municipal election is scheduled for May 2027.
The state legislative primary ballot is set for June 2027.
Political Context
The transition follows the North Bergen Board of Commissioners governing structure. This process relies on internal selection by the five-member board rather than a direct mayoral vote.
Residents should anticipate changes in leadership as the Board of Commissioners prepares for the upcoming transition. This shift will impact local administrative appointments and may influence the direction of future municipal policy.
The takeaway
The end of a 35-year mayoral era indicates a major shift in local political power for North Bergen. Voters should monitor the upcoming board reorganization to understand how the new leadership will impact city operations.
What happens next
Nick Sacco is expected to resign as mayor on October 28, 2026, leading to a reorganization meeting where Hugo Cabrera is slated to be appointed mayor, while Nick Sacco Jr. is expected to be appointed as a township commissioner.
Further reading
Learn more about local government actions in the North Bergen City Hall section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Hudson County View.
Live Poll
Should local voters choose mayors directly rather than having them appointed by commissioners?
