The New Jersey Business & Industry Association today announced the creation of the Municipal Assistance Program (MAP) to help NJBIA members navigate an often challenging regulatory environment at the local level, including permitting, rent control, zoning and traffic-related issues.
The MAP will become part of NJBIA’s successful Member Action Center (MAC), which provides members with business and legal consulting services at no charge.
Beginning February 1, NJBIA member companies may call 1-800-499-4419, ext. 3 or email member411@njbia.org for help resolving local permitting, zoning, and procurement issues, or, perhaps to develop strategies in expanding in the local government marketplace.
“With 565 municipalities in New Jersey, each with their own rules and regulations, it’s easy for small business owners to become overwhelmed,” said NJBIA President and CEO Michele Siekerka. “Our members consistently tell us they need help guiding them through the often challenging local regulatory process. In creating the MAP we listened.”
William “Bill” Dressel, Jr., former executive director of the New Jersey State League of Municipalities, will serve as a consultant and lead for NJBIA’s municipal assistance program.
“Bill is a natural fit to help businesses maneuver through the municipal process, given his long tenure and expertise working with local public officials. We’re confident that he can assist members to reach a common ground and understanding with municipal officials in resolving important business issues,” Siekerka said.
“Last year our Member Action Center, in its first year, resolved more than 8,000 member issues,” Siekerka said. “Our new MAP initiative gives NJBIA the opportunity to help even more companies achieve the important goal of advancing the competitive excellence and financial success of our members.”
