TRENTON, NJ – The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA), New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA), New Jersey Redevelopment Authority (NJRA), and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) are excited to announce the 2025 Governor’s Conference on Housing and Economic Development, taking place on September 16-17, 2025, at Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City. This year’s event will feature keynote speaker Peggy Bailey, Executive Vice President (EVP) for Policy and Program Development and Vice President (VP) for Housing and Income Security at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. As a nationally respected leader and advocate, Bailey will bring powerful insights into the future of housing, equity, and essential federal and state programs.

In her role as EVP, she guides the Center’s work to strengthen, reform, and better resource federal and state programs oriented to helping all people meet basic needs like housing, health, and nutrition. As VP for Housing and Income Security, Bailey oversees the Center’s work to protect and expand access to affordable housing and income assistance through programs like Housing Choice Vouchers, Public Housing, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and Child Support.

Throughout her career, she has helped build connections between housing, health, nutrition, child welfare, and other systems of care. Bailey has worked to advance the delivery of government services and supports that center people and systems that make resources easier to access and flexible enough to meet people’s needs. Her work to improve programs also includes recognizing the ways in which racism and discrimination have created the inequities that persist today and must be addressed to achieve a country where all people thrive.

This premier two-day event brings together housing professionals, developers, community leaders, government officials, and advocates to explore bold ideas and actionable strategies for building a stronger, more equitable New Jersey.

“This conference is where vision meets action,” said DCA Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez. “We invite all stakeholders to join us as we explore innovative ways to strengthen our communities and ensure opportunity for all New Jerseyans. Whether you're a housing developer, municipal official, economic strategist, nonprofit leader, or resident passionate about community change, this conference is for you.”

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