New planner to gather data, learn turf

New ownship planner, Mark Remsa, familiarizes himself with Upper Freehold Township.

By: Marisa Maldonado
   UPPER FREEHOLD — Mark Remsa has spent a lot of time driving through Upper Freehold’s open spaces on his way to the shore. Now, as the township’s new planner, he’ll be figuring out how to preserve that rural character.
   "From what I’ve got is they’re a rural community in the path of growth, and they have challenges of balancing growth with preservation of rural character," Mr. Remsa said. "I know what I heard during the interview process, I know what I heard and read. Now it’s time for me to gather data."
   The Mount Laurel resident owns his own planning consulting firm and also works for Burlington County as director of economic development and regional planning. He has worked in planning for 25 years, both in the private sector and with municipalities.
   "Working with municipalities, I know largely the issues (are) quality of life and preserving rural character," Mr. Remsa said. "Our issues are very similar to Upper Freehold — that’s what interested me in seeking the position there."
   The Township Committee appointed Mr. Remsa to the position at its Feb. 3 meeting. The former planner, Richard Coppola, announced his decision to leave in December after 12 years with the township.
   Mayor Salvatore Diecidue said the committee liked Mr. Remsa’s economic experience and his previous work with Burlington County. Mr. Remsa has three degrees from Rutgers University: a bachelor of science in environmental planning and design, a master’s in city and regional planning and a master’s degree in business administration.
   The township will need his input on many issues, the mayor said, including the contentious issue of changing the township’s zoning ordinance.
   Despite his experience with other municipalities, Mr. Remsa said that he needs to acquaint himself with the township and its rules before diving into issues such as zoning.
   "One size does not fit all — what works for one municipality may not work for another," Mr. Remsa said. "It’s important to spend time with the municipality, the decision makers, the planning board."
   Mr. Remsa will meet with the Upper Freehold Planning Board for the first time tonight (Thursday). He also said he has looked through the township’s cross-acceptance report that compares the progress of state and local plans for development.
   And in addition to looking at all that new data, he’ll go out and take a look at the township with new eyes.
   "As a matter of fact," he said, "one of the things I must do is get in my car and drive the roads so I’m more familiar with it."