Warren, NJ – As Warren experiences a significant increase in development, Township Committee candidate Will DiGrande emphasizes the urgent need for strategic planning. By investing in our social infrastructure and adequately preparing for storm management, we can create a sustainable and safe future for all residents.

 

Smart Development:
By leveraging Warren's desirability and location, we have a unique opportunity to shape future housing developments. Though previous officials have handed out “PILOT” tax breaks, DiGrande knows there is room for negotiation with builders to ensure they contribute to the overall well-being of our town. It’s essential that we require developers to invest in community improvements, such as recreation spaces and funding for emergency service equipment, which will enhance the quality of life for all. By insisting that they pay their fair share, we can require smart development that benefits everyone, ensuring that growth is sustainable and equitable.

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While DiGrande plans to work thoughtfully with builders, he will also investigate alternative avenues to fulfill our town’s affordable housing obligations. He proposes exploring the use of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), which would allow residents the ability to add small units on their own properties to house family members. ADUs would not only benefit multiple generations of residents by keeping families together, they have the potential to reach Warren’s affordable housing obligation without the risk of overdevelopment – a concern many in town share.

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A Social Infrastructure That Works:
DiGrande believes that smart development must also consider Warren’s social infrastructure – which should be inclusive. He has seen first hand the negative impact poor planning and development have had on some senior residents. In conversations with them, DiGrande has learned that many cannot fulfill basic needs – such as buying groceries – due to a lack of transportation. Creating an improved shuttle system would enhance the quality of life for Warren’s older generation, as well as anyone else who requires this service.

“Our seniors deserve more alternatives for transportation than they currently have," DiGrande said. "One resident shared with me how excited she was to move to Warren, only to learn that life here can be quite isolating. If we want our community to grow and thrive, we have to find ways to take care of everyone."

Storm Management Strategies:
New growth brings with it the heightened risk of flooding and drainage issues, as many residents experienced this past summer. DiGrande is committed to implementing proactive stormwater management solutions to protect the environment and homes of our residents. Solutions on the local level include zoning requirements like permeable paving, and encouraging retention practices such as creating rain gardens.
Additionally, it is critical for Warren to work closely with utility companies and other towns in promoting proactive storm mitigation. “It’s not enough to survey the damage after a heavy storm and ask, ‘What could we have done to better prepare?’. Our elected officials must prioritize the need for planning before the next one, such as investing in an effective public communication system for timely warnings and updates,” DiGrande said.

A vote for Will DiGrande is a vote for common-sense planning for the future of Warren. Make your voice heard on or before November 4!