MONROE – Mayor Stephen Dalina is proposing the creation of a township Economic Development Advisory Board in efforts to promote economic growth and job creation by aligning local business leaders with elected officials to maximize the talents of the community and its workforce.
He will present an ordinance for introduction establishing the advisory board before the Township Council on May 3, according to a release from the mayor’s office.
“We want to work collaboratively with Monroe’s business leaders to attract businesses that will add to the township’s already strong and diverse economic community,” Dalina said in the statement.
“It’s also important for all of us to support existing local businesses that have been impacted by the pandemic. This initiative will dovetail with our Master Plan efforts where the township is exploring appropriate plans for all types of land use, particularly commercial activity. Of course, new business opportunities in the township lead to property tax relief, from non-residential tax revenue, and that’s a win for everyone.”
In December, the Township Council approved a resolution to hire H2M Associates Inc. in Parsippany, an engineering firm with expertise in reviewing master plans, for public outreach services in an amount not to exceed $66,000.
The township will reopen and update the following elements of its master plan: municipal land use, roads and transportation, parks and recreation and open space.
With the Economic Development Advisory Board, Dalina envisions formulating and recommending policies and programs to the council that encourages desirable new businesses to establish roots in Monroe while providing valuable resources to existing Monroe businesses, according to the statement.
The board also will study challenge faced by commercial enterprises in similar communities and propose potential solutions, according to the release.
If approved by council, the Economic Development Advisory Board will consist of nine volunteer members, with two co-chairs, comprised of both township residents and business leaders.
“This is yet another way for more residents and businesses to share ideas and plan for the future of our great community,” Dalina said in the statement. “Monroe Township has a wealth of business knowledge and talent just waiting to be shared. This new advisory board will provide a conduit for the business community to have a louder voice.”
Interested business owners and residents are invited to complete the downloadable application at www.monroetwp.com/index.php/boards-commissions. Submissions may be sent to the Municipal Clerk by mail at the Administrative Offices, or email [email protected] or fax to 732-521-3190.
All submissions will be retained for a maximum period of one year from the date of filing.