On Thursday, April 26, 2006, I attended a Teen Town Hall Meeting at the Asbury Park Boys and Girls Club. The goal of this meeting was to get teens talking about the issues that impact them as residents of Asbury Park. The discussion covered a wide range of issues - from what teens want to be when they grow up, to their fears about the growing violence in our streets, to their overemphasis on material things.
I came away from the meeting with a number of insights. First, our teens are quite aware of the realities they are facing in our city. Second, our teens need some clear help and guidance from the adults in our community on everything from how to dress, to how to engage in conversation, to taking responsibility for their actions. Third, as a community, we are not investing nearly enough in the lives of our young people. This, for me, is the most critical point.
Let me be clear that when I say “invest” I do not mean money. We have seen through the failures in our City school system, that we cannot just throw money at the problems. All the money in the world cannot replace what these kids need most – our time, tough love and unconditional support.
What can you do to help? VOLUNTEER!!! We currently have a number of programs that can use mentors for our teenagers. Will it take time? Yes. Will it be challenging? Certainly. Will it be worth it? More than you can imagine.
If you are interested in volunteering to be a mentor, email me at jwkeady@cityofasburypark.com and I will connect you with one of the mentoring agencies.
Friday, May 12, 2006
Help Stop Bias and Hate Crimes
On Tuesday, May 2, 2006 I attended a workshop on bias and hate crimes put on by the Q-Spot. The presentation was conducted by Detective Dave D’Amico from the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office and was attended by Prosecutor Valentin, AP Deputy Chief Kinmon, AP Inspector Van Buren and about forty audience members.
The presentation was extremely informative and I highly recommend that every citizen reach out to the Prosecutor’s office or the Q-Spot and get a copy of “Help to Stop Hate” a powerful primer on bias and hate crimes. Only together can we stop these type of crimes from happening and learning the facts is the first step.
The presentation was extremely informative and I highly recommend that every citizen reach out to the Prosecutor’s office or the Q-Spot and get a copy of “Help to Stop Hate” a powerful primer on bias and hate crimes. Only together can we stop these type of crimes from happening and learning the facts is the first step.
Does Asbury Park Need Rent Control?
Over the past few months, more than one landlord in town has pulled me aside and asked, “I heard you want rent control, is that true?”
My response to this question has been that I do want to consider a rent stabilization or rent control ordinance. Why? It should be no secret to anyone living in Asbury Park over the past five years that housing costs have significantly increased. This has put intense pressure on many families, particularly those families that are living at or near the poverty line (at least 30% of our citizens). My fear is that if redevelopment continues along its current course, we will be flooded with even more land speculators who will buy properties at inflated levels, hoping to flip them at even more inflated levels. The end result of this speculation cycle will be ever-increasing rents and massive gentrification of neighborhoods.
A well-crafted rent stabilization or rent control ordinance would curb this and create a more stable and healthy marketplace. Such an ordinance would show that we want landlords that are in Asbury Park for the long haul. Their profits would be steady and long-term. It would also create a more stable situation for families already living here and would create a greater abundance of affordable rental units for families that want to move to Asbury Park.
As I have researched and discussed this issue, I have heard many arguments against rent stabilization or rent control from landlords with large apartment buildings. None of these arguments have been informed by the facts. I have also heard from the smaller landlords telling me, “Jim, I put my life-savings into the old Victorian house I bought and I’m spending thousands to fix it up. We have a carriage house in the back and we rent out the apartment to help cover costs. If we’re limited in what we can charge, we won’t survive.” You don’t have to worry. Most likely, any ordinance we would consider would not impact you. Why? In most cities, rent stabilization or rent control ordinances only impact buildings with multiple units.
For those of you who feel that “rent control is absolutely wrong for Asbury Park.” Are you sure you know what you are talking about? Are you talking about strong rent control, moderate rent control or restrictive rent control? Do you know the differences between rent control and rent stabilization? Are you basing your arguments on your understanding of rent controls in NYC - controls that were put in place during World War II and are unlike ANY other rent controls in the entire country? Does the rent control you’re thinking about have vacancy decontrols or recontrols? Does the rent control you are thinking about have increases based on the consumer price index, inflation, property upgrades, a combination of these? Do you know which of the landlord’s profit streams – operating profits, tax-write offs or capital gains - rent control impact most?
What I am proposing? First, let’s get the facts on how rent stabilization or rent control would impact our community. To this end, the Asbury Park Affordable Housing Subcommittee has requested that the governing body invite Mr. Connie Pascale (Legal Services of NJ), one of the leading experts in the state on rent stabilization and rent control, to make a presentation to our community at the May 17, 2006 City Council Workshop Session (6pm start time).
Once we have the facts, then we, as a community, can consider what is best. I encourage each of you that are interested in this topic to email me any questions you would like Mr. Pascale to address in his presentation.
My response to this question has been that I do want to consider a rent stabilization or rent control ordinance. Why? It should be no secret to anyone living in Asbury Park over the past five years that housing costs have significantly increased. This has put intense pressure on many families, particularly those families that are living at or near the poverty line (at least 30% of our citizens). My fear is that if redevelopment continues along its current course, we will be flooded with even more land speculators who will buy properties at inflated levels, hoping to flip them at even more inflated levels. The end result of this speculation cycle will be ever-increasing rents and massive gentrification of neighborhoods.
A well-crafted rent stabilization or rent control ordinance would curb this and create a more stable and healthy marketplace. Such an ordinance would show that we want landlords that are in Asbury Park for the long haul. Their profits would be steady and long-term. It would also create a more stable situation for families already living here and would create a greater abundance of affordable rental units for families that want to move to Asbury Park.
As I have researched and discussed this issue, I have heard many arguments against rent stabilization or rent control from landlords with large apartment buildings. None of these arguments have been informed by the facts. I have also heard from the smaller landlords telling me, “Jim, I put my life-savings into the old Victorian house I bought and I’m spending thousands to fix it up. We have a carriage house in the back and we rent out the apartment to help cover costs. If we’re limited in what we can charge, we won’t survive.” You don’t have to worry. Most likely, any ordinance we would consider would not impact you. Why? In most cities, rent stabilization or rent control ordinances only impact buildings with multiple units.
For those of you who feel that “rent control is absolutely wrong for Asbury Park.” Are you sure you know what you are talking about? Are you talking about strong rent control, moderate rent control or restrictive rent control? Do you know the differences between rent control and rent stabilization? Are you basing your arguments on your understanding of rent controls in NYC - controls that were put in place during World War II and are unlike ANY other rent controls in the entire country? Does the rent control you’re thinking about have vacancy decontrols or recontrols? Does the rent control you are thinking about have increases based on the consumer price index, inflation, property upgrades, a combination of these? Do you know which of the landlord’s profit streams – operating profits, tax-write offs or capital gains - rent control impact most?
What I am proposing? First, let’s get the facts on how rent stabilization or rent control would impact our community. To this end, the Asbury Park Affordable Housing Subcommittee has requested that the governing body invite Mr. Connie Pascale (Legal Services of NJ), one of the leading experts in the state on rent stabilization and rent control, to make a presentation to our community at the May 17, 2006 City Council Workshop Session (6pm start time).
Once we have the facts, then we, as a community, can consider what is best. I encourage each of you that are interested in this topic to email me any questions you would like Mr. Pascale to address in his presentation.
My Vision for the "Baronet Block"
There has been significant discussion at recent City Council meetings about preserving the Baronet Theater. I am 100% in support of this effort and want to share my vision for the “Baronet Block.”
I want to preserve the Asbury Lanes, the Fast-Lane and the Baronet Theater and establish this section of Fourth Avenue as an entertainment area. I would also like to amend the Waterfront Redevelopment Plan to allow for a parking deck to be built on the empty lot west of these buildings. On the first story above the aforementioned entertainment venues, I would like to have office space for the community group that will manage the Baronet, as well as affordable artist-loft apartments. This first story will provide two things. First, it will provide some affordable units within the Waterfront Redevelopment Area. Second, it will provide a necessary noise buffer between the entertainment venues and the subsequent stories. The fact that the occupants of these units will deal with noise from the venues is the trade-off for getting something affordable one block from the beach. Above these units I would like to see market-rate condominium units.
In return for Asbury Partner’s potential loss of revenue on the ground floor retail units and the first floor of affordable units and office space, I would like the City to negotiate for increased height on this or another parcel within the Waterfront Redevelopment Area.
To execute this vision, I have reached out to our City Attorney and will reach out to my fellow Councilmembers about proposing a resolution on May 17th that would direct our City staff to begin negotiating these issues with Asbury Partners.
I want to preserve the Asbury Lanes, the Fast-Lane and the Baronet Theater and establish this section of Fourth Avenue as an entertainment area. I would also like to amend the Waterfront Redevelopment Plan to allow for a parking deck to be built on the empty lot west of these buildings. On the first story above the aforementioned entertainment venues, I would like to have office space for the community group that will manage the Baronet, as well as affordable artist-loft apartments. This first story will provide two things. First, it will provide some affordable units within the Waterfront Redevelopment Area. Second, it will provide a necessary noise buffer between the entertainment venues and the subsequent stories. The fact that the occupants of these units will deal with noise from the venues is the trade-off for getting something affordable one block from the beach. Above these units I would like to see market-rate condominium units.
In return for Asbury Partner’s potential loss of revenue on the ground floor retail units and the first floor of affordable units and office space, I would like the City to negotiate for increased height on this or another parcel within the Waterfront Redevelopment Area.
To execute this vision, I have reached out to our City Attorney and will reach out to my fellow Councilmembers about proposing a resolution on May 17th that would direct our City staff to begin negotiating these issues with Asbury Partners.
The Westside is on the Move
In the past two weeks, I have attended a number of community meetings on the Westside that were focused on addressing pressing social issues in our city. The majority of these meetings were held in response to the fact that we have had two murders on DeWitt Avenue in the past seven months, both of which happened steps away from one of our community centers. There also have been three other less publicized shootings in the past two weeks - luckily none of these were fatal.
As I participated in these meetings, I was excited by the growing sentiment of residents and community leaders in these neighborhoods that they “have had enough.” They have had enough of the senseless violence, enough of the drug dealing, and enough of the growing gang problem. These feelings were most evident in the community march and rally that took place this past Saturday afternoon.
It was the 14th annual march in memory of Quiana Dees, a 12-year-old girl that was brutally murdered in 1992. Her killer has never been brought to justice. The march has been organized each year by her mother, Penny Dees. This year the march took on added meaning as Ms. Dee’s was joined by relatives and friends of Jerry Jules, Jakeema Kelly, and Saahron Jones – all murdered in our city within the past seven months.
As the march wound its way though the streets of the Westside, I felt a tremendous sense of solidarity among the marchers. I felt a growing spirit that was saying “we are ready to do the difficult work to take back our streets for our children.” As I walked with them, I was immensely proud to be one of their elected officials. The consciousness of the Westside community has been awakened, a floodgate has been opened, and its people are on the move.
As one of the organizers shared with the crowd as we rallied at City Hall following the march, “This is not an event, this is a MOVEMENT.” I wholeheartedly agree and it is a movement that each and every member of our city should support.
As I participated in these meetings, I was excited by the growing sentiment of residents and community leaders in these neighborhoods that they “have had enough.” They have had enough of the senseless violence, enough of the drug dealing, and enough of the growing gang problem. These feelings were most evident in the community march and rally that took place this past Saturday afternoon.
It was the 14th annual march in memory of Quiana Dees, a 12-year-old girl that was brutally murdered in 1992. Her killer has never been brought to justice. The march has been organized each year by her mother, Penny Dees. This year the march took on added meaning as Ms. Dee’s was joined by relatives and friends of Jerry Jules, Jakeema Kelly, and Saahron Jones – all murdered in our city within the past seven months.
As the march wound its way though the streets of the Westside, I felt a tremendous sense of solidarity among the marchers. I felt a growing spirit that was saying “we are ready to do the difficult work to take back our streets for our children.” As I walked with them, I was immensely proud to be one of their elected officials. The consciousness of the Westside community has been awakened, a floodgate has been opened, and its people are on the move.
As one of the organizers shared with the crowd as we rallied at City Hall following the march, “This is not an event, this is a MOVEMENT.” I wholeheartedly agree and it is a movement that each and every member of our city should support.
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Explaining Our New Agreement with Asbury Partners
On April 5, 2006, the Asbury Park City Council passed a resolution to execute a “Dispute Resolution Agreement” with Asbury Partners. This agreement was designed to address the following:
Priority of projects;
Time frames for completion;
Financing commitments;
Consequences for failure to perform.
Since the passing of this resolution, a number of questions have been raised by various members of the public. I will attempt to address some of the most pressing questions here.
Why didn’t the public get to see the agreement prior to the April 5, 2006 City Council meeting?
On Thursday, March 30, 2006, the governing body had an Executive Committee meeting to discuss the conclusion of our negotiations with Asbury Partners on this issue. At the end of this meeting, we agreed that we wanted the final agreement to be available on the City website for the public prior to the April 5, 2006 Council meeting. We agreed that the public deserved to see the agreement prior to the meeting and that this reflected our desire to be responsive and transparent.
On Monday, April 3, 2006, I was made aware that the document had not yet been posted to the City website and that it may not be ready to be posted prior to the meeting. Upon hearing this, I expressed my extreme displeasure with a member of the subcommittee. I explained to this person that I had, in good faith, let members of the public know that the agreement would be available and that I felt this was a very unfortunate development.
While I am comfortable with much of the final content of the agreement, I am very disappointed with what may be perceived by the public as a lack of transparency on the part of the governing body.
I have shared this concern with my fellow council members and with the City Manager and I have agreed to reserve public comment on who was ultimately responsible for this error until after we have had a chance to discuss the details during our April 19, 2006 City Council meeting.
It seems that the timelines and financial commitments in the agreement only cover a limited amount of the work that needs to be done. Why doesn’t the agreement cover ALL the work that needs to be completed?
Let’s use Schedule B that outlines the work to be done on Convention Hall as an example. Here we have clear timelines, outlines of work to be done, and specific amounts for the cost of the work for A-E, which include: Window Replacements, Hazard Repairs, Interior Storefront Replacements, Arcade Entrance Structural Repair, Exterior Storefronts and Entry Doors.
Then we come to Section F titled, “Entire Building Renovation Design.” This section includes a timeline for the following: Schematic Design (January 2007), Design Development (April 2007), Parties to meet to agree on construction timeline (August 2007), Construction Permits Complete (September 2007), and Renovation tasks pursuant to construction timeline to begin (October 2007).
The key item here is “Parties to meet to agree on construction timeline.” This means that by August 2007, we will have a construction timeline, outlines for work to be done, and specific amounts for the cost of the work. It will also mean, pursuant to language in the agreement, that Asbury Partners will have to post financial commitments to complete this work and construction will commence in October 2007.
Why do they only have to post 25% of the project construction costs?
I, too, raised this question with our negotiating team. I was told that: First, 10% is the industry standard, so getting 25% was a good thing. Second, Section 4(b) of the agreement, “Projected Costs,” outlines that Asbury Partners must post performance bonds that cover the costs of the ENTIRE construction contract prior to construction beginning.
Did we negotiate away our ability to name Asbury Partners in default?
No. We still are able to name Asbury Partners in default in the future. We did agree that on the items addressed in Schedules A-E we would not name them in default on any past issues of non-performance.
What if Asbury Partners doesn’t do what they are supposed to do?
Let’s use the 5th Avenue Pavilion as an example. In Schedule A it says that they are supposed to complete construction on emergency repairs by June 2006. Let’s pick one item from the list, “remove paint from brick.” If by the end of June, the paint is not removed from the brick, we will send Asbury Partners a “Letter of Concern.” Once they get this letter, we have 10 business days to resolve the issue with them. If we do not feel the issue is adequately resolved in these 10 days, then we will send them a “Letter of Unresolved Concerns and Request to Arbitrate” and we will enter into binding arbitration to resolve the issue. Once the written demand for arbitration is sent, each party has 45 days to conclude their presentation to the arbitrator. After that, the arbitrator makes a binding decision.
Closing Comments
I hope that the information above addresses the top concerns that citizens have raised with me regarding this agreement. Along with this commentary, I offer the following.
Do I feel that the Waterfront Redevelopment Subcommittee worked extremely hard throughout these negotiations and should be commended for this? Yes.
Do I agree that if Asbury Partners were serious about rehabilitating these properties when they first came to town that this planning work would already have been done? Yes.
Do I agree that the former governing body was short-sighted for not having this kind of accountability in the original agreement? Yes.
Do I feel that our Redevelopment Attorney, Mr. Aaron, should have better advised the former governing body during the negotiations on the original agreement? Yes.
The reality is that these issues are behind us and we now have a clear plan for action and mechanisms for accountability to ensure the work is done. Having this level of accountability with Asbury Partners was one of my top goals when I took office and I am glad that the entire governing body has moved in this direction.
Am I satisfied with this agreement? Yes.
Priority of projects;
Time frames for completion;
Financing commitments;
Consequences for failure to perform.
Since the passing of this resolution, a number of questions have been raised by various members of the public. I will attempt to address some of the most pressing questions here.
Why didn’t the public get to see the agreement prior to the April 5, 2006 City Council meeting?
On Thursday, March 30, 2006, the governing body had an Executive Committee meeting to discuss the conclusion of our negotiations with Asbury Partners on this issue. At the end of this meeting, we agreed that we wanted the final agreement to be available on the City website for the public prior to the April 5, 2006 Council meeting. We agreed that the public deserved to see the agreement prior to the meeting and that this reflected our desire to be responsive and transparent.
On Monday, April 3, 2006, I was made aware that the document had not yet been posted to the City website and that it may not be ready to be posted prior to the meeting. Upon hearing this, I expressed my extreme displeasure with a member of the subcommittee. I explained to this person that I had, in good faith, let members of the public know that the agreement would be available and that I felt this was a very unfortunate development.
While I am comfortable with much of the final content of the agreement, I am very disappointed with what may be perceived by the public as a lack of transparency on the part of the governing body.
I have shared this concern with my fellow council members and with the City Manager and I have agreed to reserve public comment on who was ultimately responsible for this error until after we have had a chance to discuss the details during our April 19, 2006 City Council meeting.
It seems that the timelines and financial commitments in the agreement only cover a limited amount of the work that needs to be done. Why doesn’t the agreement cover ALL the work that needs to be completed?
Let’s use Schedule B that outlines the work to be done on Convention Hall as an example. Here we have clear timelines, outlines of work to be done, and specific amounts for the cost of the work for A-E, which include: Window Replacements, Hazard Repairs, Interior Storefront Replacements, Arcade Entrance Structural Repair, Exterior Storefronts and Entry Doors.
Then we come to Section F titled, “Entire Building Renovation Design.” This section includes a timeline for the following: Schematic Design (January 2007), Design Development (April 2007), Parties to meet to agree on construction timeline (August 2007), Construction Permits Complete (September 2007), and Renovation tasks pursuant to construction timeline to begin (October 2007).
The key item here is “Parties to meet to agree on construction timeline.” This means that by August 2007, we will have a construction timeline, outlines for work to be done, and specific amounts for the cost of the work. It will also mean, pursuant to language in the agreement, that Asbury Partners will have to post financial commitments to complete this work and construction will commence in October 2007.
Why do they only have to post 25% of the project construction costs?
I, too, raised this question with our negotiating team. I was told that: First, 10% is the industry standard, so getting 25% was a good thing. Second, Section 4(b) of the agreement, “Projected Costs,” outlines that Asbury Partners must post performance bonds that cover the costs of the ENTIRE construction contract prior to construction beginning.
Did we negotiate away our ability to name Asbury Partners in default?
No. We still are able to name Asbury Partners in default in the future. We did agree that on the items addressed in Schedules A-E we would not name them in default on any past issues of non-performance.
What if Asbury Partners doesn’t do what they are supposed to do?
Let’s use the 5th Avenue Pavilion as an example. In Schedule A it says that they are supposed to complete construction on emergency repairs by June 2006. Let’s pick one item from the list, “remove paint from brick.” If by the end of June, the paint is not removed from the brick, we will send Asbury Partners a “Letter of Concern.” Once they get this letter, we have 10 business days to resolve the issue with them. If we do not feel the issue is adequately resolved in these 10 days, then we will send them a “Letter of Unresolved Concerns and Request to Arbitrate” and we will enter into binding arbitration to resolve the issue. Once the written demand for arbitration is sent, each party has 45 days to conclude their presentation to the arbitrator. After that, the arbitrator makes a binding decision.
Closing Comments
I hope that the information above addresses the top concerns that citizens have raised with me regarding this agreement. Along with this commentary, I offer the following.
Do I feel that the Waterfront Redevelopment Subcommittee worked extremely hard throughout these negotiations and should be commended for this? Yes.
Do I agree that if Asbury Partners were serious about rehabilitating these properties when they first came to town that this planning work would already have been done? Yes.
Do I agree that the former governing body was short-sighted for not having this kind of accountability in the original agreement? Yes.
Do I feel that our Redevelopment Attorney, Mr. Aaron, should have better advised the former governing body during the negotiations on the original agreement? Yes.
The reality is that these issues are behind us and we now have a clear plan for action and mechanisms for accountability to ensure the work is done. Having this level of accountability with Asbury Partners was one of my top goals when I took office and I am glad that the entire governing body has moved in this direction.
Am I satisfied with this agreement? Yes.
March/April Agenda Update
When I ran for office, I had a very clear platform that included making significant progress in number of areas. These areas include: public safety, recreation, job creation, affordable housing, redevelopment and improving communication between City Hall and the public.
What’s happening in PUBLIC SAFETY?
AP Police Department
As many of you know, we have had another tragic murder in our city this past month with the death of a young man, Jakeema Kelly. The investigation into this murder is ongoing. If you have any information that you feel might be helpful to our Police Department, please contact them at 732.774.1300.
This murder – the second on DeWitt Avenue in the past several months – is a stark reminder that we have a long journey in front of us. The first part of this journey is affirming as a city that this death must not be seen as simply “gang-related violence” or “just another black man killed on the West Side of Asbury Park.” The second part is continuing to marshal all available resources toward improving public safety in our city. I am optimistic that our Police Department is moving in this positive direction. The third part is addressing the root causes of violence on our streets. In an upcoming post to the blog, I will outline how I best feel we can address this issue.
Along with the work of the Police Department, we need citizens to help make our streets safer, especially for our children. To this end, a concrete action that you can take would be volunteering with our Citizens on Patrol (COP) program. If you are interested in receiving more information, please contact our Police Department at 732.774.1300.
AP Fire Department
As I wrote to you in my last communication, our City Fire House was/is not meeting OSHA standards and our firefighters cannot live on the second floor of the building until the structural issues are dealt with. It has been reported to the Mayor and Council that the necessary improvements are continuing to be made. The Council has also established an ad hoc subcommittee to research and report on the best course of action for permanently addressing this issue which will include the building of a new Fire House.
I again thank the city departments for their commitment to providing our citizens with seamless Fire and EMT services.
What’s happening in RECREATION?
Creating a Department of Parks and Recreation
A number of weeks ago, the governing body requested that our City Manager and staff research and report on the best course of action for us to take in creating a Department of Parks and Recreation. On April 11, 2006, I sent a memo to Mr. Reidy asking for an update on this research/report. I am hoping that this work has been completed and that we can begin formal discussions on this matter at our April 19th or May 3rd City Council meeting.
Biddy Basketball League
The Biddy Basketball League organized by our City Recreation Division and the AP Police Athletic League continues to be a success and the race for the championship is heating up. Just before the start of the season, in what now may be seen as a blockbuster move (smile), I was traded by Officer German’s Pistons and joined Assistant City Manager Famularo to coach the Heat. Well, the Heat are now sitting undefeated atop the league and my time spent with the coaches and the players has been wonderful.
On a less competitive note, the most exciting aspect of being part of this program is seeing all of the parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, brothers, sisters, cousins, etc. pack the gym at the Bradley Elementary School to support the players. As I commented recently in an Asbury Park Press article that was written about the league, “This is what a community is supposed to look like on a Saturday morning.”
If you are interested in helping out with the program, please contact Assistant City Manager, James Famularo at 732.775.2100.
After School Programs
The City Recreation Division continues to conduct its after-school program at the Asbury Park Middle School. For more information, please contact Cheryl Pearsal at 732-502-5747.
Asbury Park Soccer Club – Summer Program
The Asbury Park Soccer Club, which I helped to found three years ago, is now making plans for our annual Summer Soccer Program. Over the past three years, hundreds of kids and adults have taken part in this program and we hope to make this summer even more memorable. If you would like to volunteer as a coach or help manage the program (no soccer experience necessary), please contact me at jwkeady@cityofasburypark.com or 732.502.5196.
What’s happening with the ASBURY WORKS ADVISORY BOARD?
On March 15, 2006, the City Council approved my recommendation to appropriate $280,000 of funding for the Youth Summer Jobs Program from the Community Development and Affordable Housing Fund. The funding was approved with the caveat that it be used as seed money for the next three years, rather than just a one-off funding of the first year. This gives us $93,333 per year for the next three years. To fully fund the program, we will need to raise an additional $187,000 per year.
Thanks to all of the members of the governing body for making this investment in our youth and the future of our city.
To secure the remaining financing, I have made overtures to State Assemblyman Sean Kean, Vic Scudiery, Head of the Monmouth County Democratic Party, as well as three members of our County Board of Freeholders. Along with overtures to the public sector, I will also be reaching out to individuals and businesses in the private sector for funding.
If you would like to be involved in underwriting this program, below is a listing of levels of participation for you to consider.
GOLD LEVEL SPONSORSHIP
Gold Level Sponsors commit to underwriting 10 youths ($2,419 each) for a total of $24,190. In return for your commitment:
Your name will be mentioned in all press materials about the program;
Your name will be featured on our program’s t-shirts;
You will receive an official proclamation from the governing body;
You and five guests will be invited to our end-of-the-program celebration.
SILVER LEVEL SPONSORSHIP
Silver Level Sponsors commit to underwriting 5 youths ($2,419 each) for a total of $12,095. In return for your commitment:
Your name will be mentioned in all press materials about the program;
Your name will be featured on our program’s t-shirts;
You will be invited to our end-of-the-program celebration.
BRONZE LEVEL SPONSORSHIP
Bronze Level Sponsors commit to underwriting 1 youth for a total of $2,419. In return for your commitment:
Your name will be mentioned in all press materials about the program;
You will be invited to our end-of-the-program celebration.
To become a Gold, Silver or Bronze level sponsor, please contact our Asbury Works Director, Tamara Richardson at 732.774.1143.
What’s happening with the AFFORDABLE HOUSING COMMITTEE?
STARS Area
At our March 13th and March 27th meetings, the Affordable Housing Committee continued to focus our energy on the STARS Redevelopment Area. We now have significant progress on Areas 1, 2, and 3 of the plan and have met with potential developers for each of these areas.
I am still hopeful that by May, the committee will have recommendations and will be seeking approval from the governing body to move forward on these proposed projects.
Rent Control/Stabilization
As requested by the Affordable Housing Committee, Mr. Connie Pascale from Legal Services of NJ will make a presentation at the April 19, 2006 City Council meeting on the pros and cons of pursuing rent control/stabilization in Asbury Park.
Because Mr. Pascale will make his presentation during the workshop session, questions from the public will not be allowed. If you have any particular questions you would like Mr. Pascale to address in his presentation, please send them to me by Monday, April 17, 2006.
What’s happening with the SPRINGWOOD AVENUE REDEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE?
The SARAC had a very productive month in March. All subcommittees have been tasked with researching and then reporting their recommendations on items to be included in the plan which will eventually be submitted to the governing body. Subcommittees will report to the full committee on April 20, 2006.
I have been working specifically with the Media and Outreach Subcommittee and the Education and Recreation Subcommittee.
The Media and Outreach Subcommittee had a very successful community forum on March 31, 2006 at the Asbury Village Community Room. The event focused on educating residents about the history of Springwood Avenue. Special thanks to all of the members of the subcommittee for their hard work in making this a successful event.
The Education and Recreation Subcommittee has put together a survey to gather information on all available education and recreation facilities and programming in our city. Once we have this information, we will be equipped to advise the full committee on what types of facilities and programs we may want to establish in the Springwood Avenue corridor as part of our redevelopment plan. I also feel that this information will be very helpful to the Recreation Commission and we will be sure to pass it along to them.
What’s happening with the WATERFRONT REDEVELOPMENT?
Dispute Resolution Agreement
On April 5, 2006, the City Council passed a resolution in favor of the “Dispute Resolution Agreement” with Asbury Partners. This agreement was/is meant to address the following issues:
Priority of projects;
Time frames for completion;
Financing commitments;
Consequences for failure to perform.
Given the importance of the agreement, I have posted a separate blog entry addressing specific concerns that citizens have raised with me.
What’s happening to improve the SHARING OF INFORMATION FROM CITY HALL?
www.keadyreport.blogspot.com
If you are reading this, you are now on my new blog. Please send me any constructive feedback on how I can make this blog an even better resource for you. Also, please email two friends and encourage them to visit the blog.
www.cityofasburypark.com
There continues to be an increased amount of public documents available via our city website. Please be sure that you visit it regularly.
Constituent Meetings
On March 3, 2006, I had the pleasure of meeting some of my younger constituents at the Bradley Elementary School. As part of the Read Across America initiative, I visited a number of classes and read one of my all-time favorites, Green Eggs and Ham, by Dr. Seuss. Both the children and the faculty were wonderful hosts and very gracious listeners.
On March 13, 2006, I met with Robert Taylor from the Boys and Girls Club to continue our discussions on how the Club and the City can better cooperate to provide a full slate of educational and recreational opportunities for our citizens.
On March 22, 2006, I attended the business meeting of the Neighborhood Preservation Project. It was a very well-run and well-attended meeting. This is one initiative that I hope we can expand to other neighborhoods throughout the city. During the meeting, members discussed topics including public safety issues, involving children with the NPP, a planned community rally and a community float for the 4th of July parade. I was given some time to field questions from committee members and I encouraged each of them to continue to come to City Council meetings so that they can be informed on pressing issues. I offer special thanks to Ms. Hazel Samuels for her work with this initiative.
On March 27, 2006, I visited the Westside Community Center to discuss the murder of Jakeema Kelly with Mrs. Susan Maynard and several community members. Mrs. Maynard shared as much information as she had at that moment and we agreed to continue communicating to develop concrete plans of action to address the violence in that area.
Coming to Your Neighborhood
If you would like me to visit your neighborhood or meet with your organization or group, please contact me at jwkeady@cityofasburypark.com or 732.502.5196.
How can I GET INVOLVED?
Please attend City Council meetings on the first and third Wednesdays of the month. The Workshop Session begins at 6pm and the Regular Public Meeting begins at 7pm. It is important that we have as many informed citizens as possible and your participation in these meetings is invaluable.
If you are interested in helping with any of the initiatives listed above, please email me at jwkeady@cityofasburypark.com or call me at 732.502.5196 and I will be sure to help get you involved in a meaningful way.
If there is an issue you would like me to address publicly, please email your question to me and I will do my best to include it on The Keady Report blog.
To help me keep citizens informed, please send an email to at least one other person from Asbury Park and ask them to join my constituent email list by contacting me at jwkeady@cityofasburypark.com or by visiting www.keadyreport.blogspot.com. If you know someone that does not use email, please print this out and give it to them. Then, ask them to mail me their contact information at Councilman Keady ~ 1 Municipal Plaza ~ Asbury Park, NJ 97712 and I will be sure to keep in touch with them.
I look forward to hearing from you. Remember, together, we can and will make Asbury Park great again!
Peace, JWK
What’s happening in PUBLIC SAFETY?
AP Police Department
As many of you know, we have had another tragic murder in our city this past month with the death of a young man, Jakeema Kelly. The investigation into this murder is ongoing. If you have any information that you feel might be helpful to our Police Department, please contact them at 732.774.1300.
This murder – the second on DeWitt Avenue in the past several months – is a stark reminder that we have a long journey in front of us. The first part of this journey is affirming as a city that this death must not be seen as simply “gang-related violence” or “just another black man killed on the West Side of Asbury Park.” The second part is continuing to marshal all available resources toward improving public safety in our city. I am optimistic that our Police Department is moving in this positive direction. The third part is addressing the root causes of violence on our streets. In an upcoming post to the blog, I will outline how I best feel we can address this issue.
Along with the work of the Police Department, we need citizens to help make our streets safer, especially for our children. To this end, a concrete action that you can take would be volunteering with our Citizens on Patrol (COP) program. If you are interested in receiving more information, please contact our Police Department at 732.774.1300.
AP Fire Department
As I wrote to you in my last communication, our City Fire House was/is not meeting OSHA standards and our firefighters cannot live on the second floor of the building until the structural issues are dealt with. It has been reported to the Mayor and Council that the necessary improvements are continuing to be made. The Council has also established an ad hoc subcommittee to research and report on the best course of action for permanently addressing this issue which will include the building of a new Fire House.
I again thank the city departments for their commitment to providing our citizens with seamless Fire and EMT services.
What’s happening in RECREATION?
Creating a Department of Parks and Recreation
A number of weeks ago, the governing body requested that our City Manager and staff research and report on the best course of action for us to take in creating a Department of Parks and Recreation. On April 11, 2006, I sent a memo to Mr. Reidy asking for an update on this research/report. I am hoping that this work has been completed and that we can begin formal discussions on this matter at our April 19th or May 3rd City Council meeting.
Biddy Basketball League
The Biddy Basketball League organized by our City Recreation Division and the AP Police Athletic League continues to be a success and the race for the championship is heating up. Just before the start of the season, in what now may be seen as a blockbuster move (smile), I was traded by Officer German’s Pistons and joined Assistant City Manager Famularo to coach the Heat. Well, the Heat are now sitting undefeated atop the league and my time spent with the coaches and the players has been wonderful.
On a less competitive note, the most exciting aspect of being part of this program is seeing all of the parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, brothers, sisters, cousins, etc. pack the gym at the Bradley Elementary School to support the players. As I commented recently in an Asbury Park Press article that was written about the league, “This is what a community is supposed to look like on a Saturday morning.”
If you are interested in helping out with the program, please contact Assistant City Manager, James Famularo at 732.775.2100.
After School Programs
The City Recreation Division continues to conduct its after-school program at the Asbury Park Middle School. For more information, please contact Cheryl Pearsal at 732-502-5747.
Asbury Park Soccer Club – Summer Program
The Asbury Park Soccer Club, which I helped to found three years ago, is now making plans for our annual Summer Soccer Program. Over the past three years, hundreds of kids and adults have taken part in this program and we hope to make this summer even more memorable. If you would like to volunteer as a coach or help manage the program (no soccer experience necessary), please contact me at jwkeady@cityofasburypark.com or 732.502.5196.
What’s happening with the ASBURY WORKS ADVISORY BOARD?
On March 15, 2006, the City Council approved my recommendation to appropriate $280,000 of funding for the Youth Summer Jobs Program from the Community Development and Affordable Housing Fund. The funding was approved with the caveat that it be used as seed money for the next three years, rather than just a one-off funding of the first year. This gives us $93,333 per year for the next three years. To fully fund the program, we will need to raise an additional $187,000 per year.
Thanks to all of the members of the governing body for making this investment in our youth and the future of our city.
To secure the remaining financing, I have made overtures to State Assemblyman Sean Kean, Vic Scudiery, Head of the Monmouth County Democratic Party, as well as three members of our County Board of Freeholders. Along with overtures to the public sector, I will also be reaching out to individuals and businesses in the private sector for funding.
If you would like to be involved in underwriting this program, below is a listing of levels of participation for you to consider.
GOLD LEVEL SPONSORSHIP
Gold Level Sponsors commit to underwriting 10 youths ($2,419 each) for a total of $24,190. In return for your commitment:
Your name will be mentioned in all press materials about the program;
Your name will be featured on our program’s t-shirts;
You will receive an official proclamation from the governing body;
You and five guests will be invited to our end-of-the-program celebration.
SILVER LEVEL SPONSORSHIP
Silver Level Sponsors commit to underwriting 5 youths ($2,419 each) for a total of $12,095. In return for your commitment:
Your name will be mentioned in all press materials about the program;
Your name will be featured on our program’s t-shirts;
You will be invited to our end-of-the-program celebration.
BRONZE LEVEL SPONSORSHIP
Bronze Level Sponsors commit to underwriting 1 youth for a total of $2,419. In return for your commitment:
Your name will be mentioned in all press materials about the program;
You will be invited to our end-of-the-program celebration.
To become a Gold, Silver or Bronze level sponsor, please contact our Asbury Works Director, Tamara Richardson at 732.774.1143.
What’s happening with the AFFORDABLE HOUSING COMMITTEE?
STARS Area
At our March 13th and March 27th meetings, the Affordable Housing Committee continued to focus our energy on the STARS Redevelopment Area. We now have significant progress on Areas 1, 2, and 3 of the plan and have met with potential developers for each of these areas.
I am still hopeful that by May, the committee will have recommendations and will be seeking approval from the governing body to move forward on these proposed projects.
Rent Control/Stabilization
As requested by the Affordable Housing Committee, Mr. Connie Pascale from Legal Services of NJ will make a presentation at the April 19, 2006 City Council meeting on the pros and cons of pursuing rent control/stabilization in Asbury Park.
Because Mr. Pascale will make his presentation during the workshop session, questions from the public will not be allowed. If you have any particular questions you would like Mr. Pascale to address in his presentation, please send them to me by Monday, April 17, 2006.
What’s happening with the SPRINGWOOD AVENUE REDEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE?
The SARAC had a very productive month in March. All subcommittees have been tasked with researching and then reporting their recommendations on items to be included in the plan which will eventually be submitted to the governing body. Subcommittees will report to the full committee on April 20, 2006.
I have been working specifically with the Media and Outreach Subcommittee and the Education and Recreation Subcommittee.
The Media and Outreach Subcommittee had a very successful community forum on March 31, 2006 at the Asbury Village Community Room. The event focused on educating residents about the history of Springwood Avenue. Special thanks to all of the members of the subcommittee for their hard work in making this a successful event.
The Education and Recreation Subcommittee has put together a survey to gather information on all available education and recreation facilities and programming in our city. Once we have this information, we will be equipped to advise the full committee on what types of facilities and programs we may want to establish in the Springwood Avenue corridor as part of our redevelopment plan. I also feel that this information will be very helpful to the Recreation Commission and we will be sure to pass it along to them.
What’s happening with the WATERFRONT REDEVELOPMENT?
Dispute Resolution Agreement
On April 5, 2006, the City Council passed a resolution in favor of the “Dispute Resolution Agreement” with Asbury Partners. This agreement was/is meant to address the following issues:
Priority of projects;
Time frames for completion;
Financing commitments;
Consequences for failure to perform.
Given the importance of the agreement, I have posted a separate blog entry addressing specific concerns that citizens have raised with me.
What’s happening to improve the SHARING OF INFORMATION FROM CITY HALL?
www.keadyreport.blogspot.com
If you are reading this, you are now on my new blog. Please send me any constructive feedback on how I can make this blog an even better resource for you. Also, please email two friends and encourage them to visit the blog.
www.cityofasburypark.com
There continues to be an increased amount of public documents available via our city website. Please be sure that you visit it regularly.
Constituent Meetings
On March 3, 2006, I had the pleasure of meeting some of my younger constituents at the Bradley Elementary School. As part of the Read Across America initiative, I visited a number of classes and read one of my all-time favorites, Green Eggs and Ham, by Dr. Seuss. Both the children and the faculty were wonderful hosts and very gracious listeners.
On March 13, 2006, I met with Robert Taylor from the Boys and Girls Club to continue our discussions on how the Club and the City can better cooperate to provide a full slate of educational and recreational opportunities for our citizens.
On March 22, 2006, I attended the business meeting of the Neighborhood Preservation Project. It was a very well-run and well-attended meeting. This is one initiative that I hope we can expand to other neighborhoods throughout the city. During the meeting, members discussed topics including public safety issues, involving children with the NPP, a planned community rally and a community float for the 4th of July parade. I was given some time to field questions from committee members and I encouraged each of them to continue to come to City Council meetings so that they can be informed on pressing issues. I offer special thanks to Ms. Hazel Samuels for her work with this initiative.
On March 27, 2006, I visited the Westside Community Center to discuss the murder of Jakeema Kelly with Mrs. Susan Maynard and several community members. Mrs. Maynard shared as much information as she had at that moment and we agreed to continue communicating to develop concrete plans of action to address the violence in that area.
Coming to Your Neighborhood
If you would like me to visit your neighborhood or meet with your organization or group, please contact me at jwkeady@cityofasburypark.com or 732.502.5196.
How can I GET INVOLVED?
Please attend City Council meetings on the first and third Wednesdays of the month. The Workshop Session begins at 6pm and the Regular Public Meeting begins at 7pm. It is important that we have as many informed citizens as possible and your participation in these meetings is invaluable.
If you are interested in helping with any of the initiatives listed above, please email me at jwkeady@cityofasburypark.com or call me at 732.502.5196 and I will be sure to help get you involved in a meaningful way.
If there is an issue you would like me to address publicly, please email your question to me and I will do my best to include it on The Keady Report blog.
To help me keep citizens informed, please send an email to at least one other person from Asbury Park and ask them to join my constituent email list by contacting me at jwkeady@cityofasburypark.com or by visiting www.keadyreport.blogspot.com. If you know someone that does not use email, please print this out and give it to them. Then, ask them to mail me their contact information at Councilman Keady ~ 1 Municipal Plaza ~ Asbury Park, NJ 97712 and I will be sure to keep in touch with them.
I look forward to hearing from you. Remember, together, we can and will make Asbury Park great again!
Peace, JWK
Monday, April 10, 2006
Welcome to The Keady Report
Greetings from Asbury Park! I started this blog as way to better share information with Asbury Park residents and business owners. If there is anything you would like me to write about, please feel free to drop me an email at jwkeady@cityofasburypark.com or give me a call at 732.502.5196.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)