Experience tells one that it is only too difficult to work “independently (and closely) with the mayor.” Working closely with someone means working in tandem. Working independently means working on one’s own. So, which is it? And what will such a program mean to Trenton?

Unfortunately I am only familiar with one redevelopment authority where I have lived–the Boston Redevelopment Authority. The head is appointed by the mayor but it works independently (and closely) with the mayor. It does have the authority to float bonds etc.

It might be worth researching other redevelopment authorities to see what their scope of practice is. I find NJ to be overly controlled by the state legislature on these matters so it would be best to look outside NJ for similar examples.

Trentonians shouldn’t have to accept this bill that only a few “in the know politicos” know about.

Don’t really know who set up CCRC but this expansion of powers creates an entirely different animal.

You say that a philosophical and economic preference for limited government is bad. It’s only bad for people that are too used to depending on government handouts to know or care about the difference.

Let’s have a clean delineation between business and government so the two don’t mix. Corruption is the result of mixing the two.

And anyway, what’s the rush in passing this bill. Why not wait a couple of weeks until the new Governor is in place?

I believe you’re confusing HMFA with COAH. Also, HMFA is designed to fund affordable housing when you look at its subsidy programs but it also has financing programs (construction and permanent financing) for mixed-income housing which I suggest that Trenton needs. Trenton Ferry is exhibit number one.

But essentionally HMFA functions like all state-based housing financing agencies across the country.

A personal email was sent to you addressing your assertions point-by point. Did you read it? Are you familiar with CCRC’s existing rules and regulations? I can send you the statute, but it’s also available online.

I believe your R party-line, anti-government bias is peeking through here Dan but you may be interested to know that I’m pretty sure that CCRC was set up by a Republican! The state wanted to work with the city on redevelopment but was, naturally, concerned about protecting its own interest and still is when it comes to redeveloping existing state-owned parcels as ratables.