A Letter from NAIOP New Jersey President George D. Sowa
Dear NAIOP Members and Prospective Members:
NAIOP New Jersey works on your behalf to get results that mean business. We have achieved major policy objectives on your behalf, most recently signing of critical Water Quality Management Planning legislation and the enactment of the Grow NJ Incentive program at the end of the 214th session of the NJ Legislature. Also:
The inclusion of virtually every one of NAIOP New Jersey’s recommendations in Governor Christie’s Transition Team Reports (many of which were enacted via the Governor’s first Executive Orders).
The Appellate Division invalidated substantial portions of COAH's regulations, including the growth share approach that had a chilling effect on non-residential development.
The signing of the Time of Application Law, which provides that the development regulations in effect on the date of submission for an application for development shall govern the review of that application and any decision made with regard to that application.
Revising the Municipal Land Use Law to allow for Vertical General Development Permits and Air Rights.
Improving critical business incentives (e.g., the ERG grant and UTHTC) by allowing for the carry forward of tax credits incurred
NAIOP was instrumental in bringing the Bayonne Bridge air draft issue to the attention of policy makers and the media: a fast-track review of environmental issues to help speed modification or replacement of the bridge was announced in August, and the Port Authority of NY and NJ has agreed to provide $1 billion toward either rehabilitating or replacing the bridge.
In 2011, we achieved a major policy victory with the signing of the COAH Nonresidential Development Fee Moratorium...a law that will allow good, job-generating projects to move forward all around New Jersey.
There is much more work to be done. With your help, we can continue to advance NAIOP New Jersey’s key public policy priorities:
- The extension of the Permit Extension Act to the end of 2014.
- A stable and dedicated source of funding for the Transportation Trust Fund.
- Permanent elimination of non-residential development affordable housing (formerly COAH) fees.
- A State Strategic Plan that provides consistency and predictability to the development process.
- Protecting and enhancing the logistics industry which accounts for 11% of the state GDR through Port Support Zones that facilitate and simplify development permits and improvements in the port regions.
- Implementation of the Energy Master Plan in a way that encourages greater energy efficiencies in existing buildings.
While advocacy is NAIOP’s top priority, we are committed to providing you with timely information and outstanding education, business development and networking opportunities. With our constantly updated website, a wealth of information is at your fingertips, along with the latest policy news and secure event registration and payment. Our comprehensive new Continuing Education (CEU) program enables you to earn the credits you need to maintain your professional credentials. We know that our members consider participation in NAIOP a sound investment. Despite the slow recovery, membership increased by 10% in 2011.
Thank you for your support of the New Jersey Chapter. We will continue to work closely with the Christie Administration and legislative leaders to enact public policies that will boost our economy, promote urban redevelopment, make needed improvements to our transportation infrastructure and keep New Jersey working.
It is an honor to serve as President of NAIOP New Jersey. Our Officers, Trustees, Committee members and staff will continue to work together to ensure that you receive the information and networking opportunities you need, and the membership value you deserve.
Sincerely,
George D. Sowa
President, Brandywine Realty Trust
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