When it comes to development the administration has stressed that they would like to become the biggest city in NJ. Many on the city council share this view so if you're opposing the height/density/parking of a development it's best to make sure all the council representatives know how you feel and the best way to do this is to show up at the meeting.
To email your representatives:
Ward E
Candice Osborne - COsborne@jcnj.org
Council Persons At Large
Rolando Lavarro - RLavarro@jcnj.org
Joyce Watterman - jwatterman@jcnj.org
Daniel Rivera - DRivera@jcnj.org
YOUR REPRESENTATIVES?
Redevelopment Plans
While most items go before the zoning board, there are patches here and there in Jersey City that have "Redevelopment Plans". These redevelopment plans were put in place to encourage development in blighted areas.
After a developer works with the city planners to make changes to the redevelopment plan the developer is usually asked to go and speak to the community. The developer will typically present the plan as if it's already been improved. What is not presented is the current zoning for the area and the fact that this is a proposed plan that needs to be approved by the city council. They fail to mention that you actually have a voice in this process.
The Planning Board
Afterwards the developer tells the planning board that he/she met with the community and the changes to the redevelopment plan are presented before the planning board.
Once a plan is approved by the planning board it goes to City Council. Typically there are 3 steps.
The City Council
City Council Step 1 - Caucus Meeting: Here the members discuss amongst themselves the issues that will come before them. The public is welcome to attend but doesn't speak.
City Council Step 2 - 1st Reading: At a first reading the public can speak (5 minutes) on an issue only if they have signed up to speak. To sign up to speak call the Clerks' office (201) 547-5150.
City Council Step 3 - 2nd Reading: When an item is passed at a 1st reading it moves on to a 2nd reading. The clerk will ask for speakers from the audience and anyone can step forward to talk on the topic.
To get on the planning board agenda email list call Barbara Payne: 201-547-5010.
To find out more information about a development you can contact your city planners:
Jeffrey Wenger - jeff@jcnj.org
Kristin Russell - RussellK@jcnj.org
Maryann Bucci-Carter - maryannb@jcnj.org