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Dear DNJ Members,
It didn't take long for me to decide to accept the presidency of Downtown New Jersey for the coming year. I know the people on the Board and we all believe that thriving town centers are absolutely essential to the economic and social health of our communities and to New Jersey.
As a DNJ Board member, I have been fortunate to work with some of the states most talented and experienced professionals in the field of downtown planning and economic revitalization. Since its beginning in 1988, DNJ has been dedicated to keeping people informed and educated with conferences, workshops, Manager's Council and website. The DNJ network is always a reliable source of information and support to downtown professionals and leaders, elected officials, business person, public and the press. The membership is comprised of people who willingly share their success stories as well as the lessons learned, new ideas and the old ideas that still work on topics that range from development to business recruitment, parking to pedestrian safety, streetscape to architecture. And, that's just a few.
DNJ remains committed to sharing that knowledge and expertise with communities throughout New Jersey from small villages to large cities. In the coming year, we will enhance our role as an advocate for commercial districts, whether it's a traditional downtown, neighborhood shopping district or new commercial center.
You can expect to see DNJ expand its initiatives in the area of legislative affairs and strengthening our relationship with several organizations devoted to smart planning, transportation and downtown revitalization.
We intend to increase our communication with and from decision makers to keep members, municipalities and the public advised of legislation or regulations that may impact our efforts either positively or negatively. DNJ is ready to represent your concerns in order to keep the focus on programs, policies and priorities that affect commercial districts.
DNJ will mark its 20th year in 2008. Like all good businesses and organizations, DNJ strives to grow and adjust to the demands and issues facing communities today and in the near future. We believe this is how we can best serve our constituents.
DNJ and its members have benefited from extraordinary leadership through the years. I am fortunate to have many of those individuals at my side as we map out a strategy for the new year. Special thanks to Michael Fabrizio, Executive Director of the Morristown Partnership, who served as president for two years, as well as the other officers, Russ Tepper of Matrix Development Group, Deborah Hoffman, Passaic County Dept. of Economic Development, Past President Robert Goldsmith and Executive Director Joseph Steiner.
We really appreciate our members and look forward to providing them even greater service. To our potential members, we look forward to meeting you, sharing our information and gaining your special insight. With your support, Downtown New Jersey will be a better organization with a stronger voice for downtowns and commercial districts.
Our goal is stronger, more successful commercial centers in cities and suburbs, rural areas and traditional downtowns throughout the state. In the end, that means a stronger New Jersey.
Kathleen