DNA SEEKS PUBLIC INPUT AHEAD OF SEPTEMBER 16 MEETING
NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION TACKLES PARKING, NOISE, TRASH, & NEW DEVELOPMENT IN THE DOWNTOWN
The newly formed Downtown Neighbors Association is seeking public input ahead of its scheduled 9 a.m. Sept. 16 at DJ’s Delights Deli & Restaurant.
Formed by a group of residents in July, the association is focused on quality of life issues in the downtown neighborhood officially known as the Central Business District [CBD] redevelopment zone.
“An agenda is being developed and community input is encouraged,” founding member Gary Maffei said. “There are unique issues of living in downtown, much like West Side Citizens United. We plan to partner with many groups to effect change in the City such as WCU and the Homeowners Association, who like DNA each represent their own constituents.”
To date, a four member steering committee has formed and the association came before the Asbury Park City Council earlier this month to address moving the hour trash collections begins in the zone.
“More decisions on structure are to come, including building captains,” he said. “There are no officers yet other than Joe Grillo and myself who founded the group and are de facto leaders.”
Maffei said the group is also discussing how tractor-trailers traverse through the city’s smaller streets, a downtown playground and parking issues. They have also pitched addressing noise from numerous sources, creating a welcome wagon for new residents, green teams, and voter registration.
“Green teams will provide the leadership to develop plans, implement programs and assist with educational opportunities that support the creation of a sustainable community,” Maffei has said.
The group’s first meeting drew 10 residents representing four downtown buildings, Maffei said.
“New members are always welcome and one does not need to live in the CBD, however, the unique issues of living in downtown are the purpose of the group,” he said.
To RSVP for the Sept. 16 meeting or send in topics for discussion and issues related to the CBD, email DNAofAP@gmail.com.
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