Environmental Community Calls for a Better, Smarter New Jersey Guiding Principles to Recover, Rebuild, Protect from Extreme Weather
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Trenton, NJ – Leaders from local, regional, state, and national groups in New Jersey joined together today to release guiding principles in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, and discuss a letter sent to Congress on Sandy-related disaster funds. [See the Principles Document and Delegation Letter HERE]
“There will be many decisions to be made as we move forward from Sandy,” said the American Littoral Society’s Tim Dillingham. “These principles if followed by state, local and private decision makers will result in a restored coastal environment and more resilient communities.”
“In the aftermath of the storm we must all pull together to help New Jersey rebuild and to protect us from future climate disruptions. We can either repeat the mistakes of the past or together move the state forward towards a smarter and better future. We can protect the environment and grow our economy through better planning, clean energy, and enhanced environmental protections,” stated Jeff Tittel, Director of the New Jersey Sierra Club.
“The storm highlighted the vulnerability of infrastructure along our urban waterways. Billions of gallons of raw and partially treated sewage were released because of failures at our wastewater treatment plants. As we repair these facilities we not only need to ensure they are capable of withstanding future extreme weather events, but are also making the investments needed to improve long-term water quality," said Debbie Mans, Executive Director, NY/NJ Baykeeper.
“New Jersey: Better, Smarter; Guiding Principles to Recover, Rebuild, and Protect from Extreme Weather” (attached) is intended to guide state-wide response to this Super-Storm, the most recent storm to expose weaknesses, mistakes and vulnerabilities in planning, regulation, and financial policies, that will define our economic and environmental future for generations.
“Super-storm Sandy not only devastated coastal communities, it was a public health and environmental disaster. Clean ocean waters, back-bays, and beaches draw people to the shore and are the anchor of our communities,” said Cindy Zipf of Clean Ocean Action. “We must work to ensure that our region is resilient, clean and healthy for decades to come. Restoration of the coastal ecosystem and our coastal culture are possible if we follow these principles and engage the local community to build better, smarter, greener and for the future.”
“Those that don’t learn from the past are damned to repeat it. We need to do that here, learn from Sandy, improve on the previous flawed standards and lax building restrictions and more, to better protect people, property, and the environment from extreme weather and climate disruption. Given the human suffering, destruction of natural and economic resources, and cost to taxpayers from Sandy, we can’t afford not to,” continued David Pringle, NJ Environmental Federation.
“Sea level rise is accelerating; at least 41⁄2 feet higher by 2100. A warmer ocean is increasing the frequency of powerful storms. We must embrace these facts to sustain the built and natural resources of our coastline and floodplains. A regional, science-based, strategic retreat in the highest risk areas, with development of new parks and wetlands, must be coupled with defense of crucial re-built environments. Our responses to Sandy and Irene must be compatible with the long-term view of the ocean and rivers of the 22nd century,” added Dr. Emile DeVito, Manager of Science and Stewardship, NJ Conservation Foundation.
Even before Sandy but with increasing urgency since, the groups have been in contact with all levels of government and other leaders. In a letter sent last week to New Jersey’s Congressional delegation (attached), the groups urged Congress to “protect public health and welfare” and “drive the responsible recovery” by conditioning “federal funding for New York and New Jersey reconstruction” to “reduce future risk from storm damage, fight climate change,” ... “and foster adaptation to a ‘new normal’,” otherwise “we will be ensuring that our communities will be endangered – needlessly – in the next storm or the next flood.”
“We don’t have a crystal ball, our environment is a dynamic and sometimes volatile system. What we can predict is that we will continue to see more frequent and more damaging storms and sea level rise. We must build in the flexibility and resiliency to absorb these storms,” said Kelly Mooij of New Jersey Audubon. “If we make the right decisions now, investing in resiliency during the process of rebuilding, we will protect our current and future citizens of the State.”
“The environmental community has risen to the occasion by assembling a robust set of common principles to ensure our recovery does not leave us as vulnerable as we are today, but instead acknowledges the realities of sea level rise and climate change. We must rebuild in ways that protect lives, property and our environment,” said Ed Potosnak, Executive Director of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. “We stand united and ready to work with decision makers to safeguard all New Jerseyans from the next Super Storm.”
“If we don’t rebuild our Shore sustainably, then the region will continue to be vulnerable to the effects of extreme weather events brought on by climate change,” said Doug O’Malley, Interim Director with Environment New Jersey. “We need to do everything in our power to reduce the global warming pollution that is expected to bring more extreme weather like Superstorm Sandy to New Jersey, the nation and the planet. A stronger Shore is ultimately a more sustainable Shore.”
“Sandy, is providing NJ a wakeup call. A call we should heed to insure that our local and state officials are enforcing the laws design to protect us from harm. We should insure that we protect and rehabilitate necessary environmental functions to better address and mitigate against future harm,” concluded Mike Pisauro of the NJ Environmental Lobby.
Alliance for a Living Ocean • American Littoral Society • Assn. of NJ Environmental Commissions Clean Ocean Action • Environment New Jersey • Hackensack Riverkeeper • New Jersey Audubon New Jersey Conservation Foundation • New Jersey Environmental Federation
New Jersey Environmental Lobby • New Jersey League of Conservation Voters
New Jersey Sierra Club • NY/NJ Baykeeper • Pinelands Preservation Alliance
Stony Brook-Millstone Watershed Association • Surfers' Environmental Alliance
Trenton, NJ – Leaders from local, regional, state, and national groups in New Jersey joined together today to release guiding principles in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, and discuss a letter sent to Congress on Sandy-related disaster funds. [See the Principles Document and Delegation Letter HERE]
“There will be many decisions to be made as we move forward from Sandy,” said the American Littoral Society’s Tim Dillingham. “These principles if followed by state, local and private decision makers will result in a restored coastal environment and more resilient communities.”
“In the aftermath of the storm we must all pull together to help New Jersey rebuild and to protect us from future climate disruptions. We can either repeat the mistakes of the past or together move the state forward towards a smarter and better future. We can protect the environment and grow our economy through better planning, clean energy, and enhanced environmental protections,” stated Jeff Tittel, Director of the New Jersey Sierra Club.
“The storm highlighted the vulnerability of infrastructure along our urban waterways. Billions of gallons of raw and partially treated sewage were released because of failures at our wastewater treatment plants. As we repair these facilities we not only need to ensure they are capable of withstanding future extreme weather events, but are also making the investments needed to improve long-term water quality," said Debbie Mans, Executive Director, NY/NJ Baykeeper.
“New Jersey: Better, Smarter; Guiding Principles to Recover, Rebuild, and Protect from Extreme Weather” (attached) is intended to guide state-wide response to this Super-Storm, the most recent storm to expose weaknesses, mistakes and vulnerabilities in planning, regulation, and financial policies, that will define our economic and environmental future for generations.
“Super-storm Sandy not only devastated coastal communities, it was a public health and environmental disaster. Clean ocean waters, back-bays, and beaches draw people to the shore and are the anchor of our communities,” said Cindy Zipf of Clean Ocean Action. “We must work to ensure that our region is resilient, clean and healthy for decades to come. Restoration of the coastal ecosystem and our coastal culture are possible if we follow these principles and engage the local community to build better, smarter, greener and for the future.”
“Those that don’t learn from the past are damned to repeat it. We need to do that here, learn from Sandy, improve on the previous flawed standards and lax building restrictions and more, to better protect people, property, and the environment from extreme weather and climate disruption. Given the human suffering, destruction of natural and economic resources, and cost to taxpayers from Sandy, we can’t afford not to,” continued David Pringle, NJ Environmental Federation.
“Sea level rise is accelerating; at least 41⁄2 feet higher by 2100. A warmer ocean is increasing the frequency of powerful storms. We must embrace these facts to sustain the built and natural resources of our coastline and floodplains. A regional, science-based, strategic retreat in the highest risk areas, with development of new parks and wetlands, must be coupled with defense of crucial re-built environments. Our responses to Sandy and Irene must be compatible with the long-term view of the ocean and rivers of the 22nd century,” added Dr. Emile DeVito, Manager of Science and Stewardship, NJ Conservation Foundation.
Even before Sandy but with increasing urgency since, the groups have been in contact with all levels of government and other leaders. In a letter sent last week to New Jersey’s Congressional delegation (attached), the groups urged Congress to “protect public health and welfare” and “drive the responsible recovery” by conditioning “federal funding for New York and New Jersey reconstruction” to “reduce future risk from storm damage, fight climate change,” ... “and foster adaptation to a ‘new normal’,” otherwise “we will be ensuring that our communities will be endangered – needlessly – in the next storm or the next flood.”
“We don’t have a crystal ball, our environment is a dynamic and sometimes volatile system. What we can predict is that we will continue to see more frequent and more damaging storms and sea level rise. We must build in the flexibility and resiliency to absorb these storms,” said Kelly Mooij of New Jersey Audubon. “If we make the right decisions now, investing in resiliency during the process of rebuilding, we will protect our current and future citizens of the State.”
“The environmental community has risen to the occasion by assembling a robust set of common principles to ensure our recovery does not leave us as vulnerable as we are today, but instead acknowledges the realities of sea level rise and climate change. We must rebuild in ways that protect lives, property and our environment,” said Ed Potosnak, Executive Director of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. “We stand united and ready to work with decision makers to safeguard all New Jerseyans from the next Super Storm.”
“If we don’t rebuild our Shore sustainably, then the region will continue to be vulnerable to the effects of extreme weather events brought on by climate change,” said Doug O’Malley, Interim Director with Environment New Jersey. “We need to do everything in our power to reduce the global warming pollution that is expected to bring more extreme weather like Superstorm Sandy to New Jersey, the nation and the planet. A stronger Shore is ultimately a more sustainable Shore.”
“Sandy, is providing NJ a wakeup call. A call we should heed to insure that our local and state officials are enforcing the laws design to protect us from harm. We should insure that we protect and rehabilitate necessary environmental functions to better address and mitigate against future harm,” concluded Mike Pisauro of the NJ Environmental Lobby.
Alliance for a Living Ocean • American Littoral Society • Assn. of NJ Environmental Commissions Clean Ocean Action • Environment New Jersey • Hackensack Riverkeeper • New Jersey Audubon New Jersey Conservation Foundation • New Jersey Environmental Federation
New Jersey Environmental Lobby • New Jersey League of Conservation Voters
New Jersey Sierra Club • NY/NJ Baykeeper • Pinelands Preservation Alliance
Stony Brook-Millstone Watershed Association • Surfers' Environmental Alliance
Trenton Times: Permit extension is environmentally unfriendly
6/28/12
Just this week, the Senate took an important step in eliminating a threat to New Jersey’s drinking water by passing a ban on the importation and treatment of fracking waste in the Garden State. This is great news.
Unfortunately, there is another piece of legislation before the Senate today that will harm our water supply: S743 — the amended Permit Extension Act. If approved, this would be the first time permits will be extended in environmentally sensitive areas that serve as the source of New Jersey’s clean water.
In previous versions, Legislators had the foresight to exempt the Highlands, Pinelands, and coastal centers because of their important role in providing clean water and air. In fact, more than 60 percent of New Jerseyans get their drinking water from the Highlands alone. That’s why, in 2004, the Legislature passed laws to protect our water in the Highlands.
Development permits expire after a reasonable amount of time because technologies advance and our planning knowledge grows. We learn new ways to prevent flooding, increase energy efficiency and reduce traffic. The extended permits operate under outdated understandings, back as far as 15 years, when gas prices were less than $1 a gallon. Much has changed since then, but not these permits.
The expansion of permits into the Highlands and Pinelands is an assault on water quality and the health of New Jersey residents, and will likely lead to an increase in flooding.
I ask readers to urge their state senators to vote against S743.
-- Ed Potosnak,
Trenton
The writer is executive director of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters (njlcv.org).
Original Article Found at:
http://www.nj.com/times-opinion/index.ssf/2012/06/times_of_trenton_letters_to_th_383.html
Just this week, the Senate took an important step in eliminating a threat to New Jersey’s drinking water by passing a ban on the importation and treatment of fracking waste in the Garden State. This is great news.
Unfortunately, there is another piece of legislation before the Senate today that will harm our water supply: S743 — the amended Permit Extension Act. If approved, this would be the first time permits will be extended in environmentally sensitive areas that serve as the source of New Jersey’s clean water.
In previous versions, Legislators had the foresight to exempt the Highlands, Pinelands, and coastal centers because of their important role in providing clean water and air. In fact, more than 60 percent of New Jerseyans get their drinking water from the Highlands alone. That’s why, in 2004, the Legislature passed laws to protect our water in the Highlands.
Development permits expire after a reasonable amount of time because technologies advance and our planning knowledge grows. We learn new ways to prevent flooding, increase energy efficiency and reduce traffic. The extended permits operate under outdated understandings, back as far as 15 years, when gas prices were less than $1 a gallon. Much has changed since then, but not these permits.
The expansion of permits into the Highlands and Pinelands is an assault on water quality and the health of New Jersey residents, and will likely lead to an increase in flooding.
I ask readers to urge their state senators to vote against S743.
-- Ed Potosnak,
Trenton
The writer is executive director of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters (njlcv.org).
Original Article Found at:
http://www.nj.com/times-opinion/index.ssf/2012/06/times_of_trenton_letters_to_th_383.html
Star-Ledger: Highlands Council director's supporters set protest
BY: SCOTT FALLON
Environmentalists say the expected public firing today of the executive director of the state Highlands Council will be the start of Governor Christie's plans to roll back key environmental protections in the region.
EILEEN SWAN Supporters of Eileen Swan are planning to descend on the council's headquarters in Morris County to protest the decision.
"I think there will be a great outpouring of support for her," said Julia Somers, executive director of the Highlands Coalition, a group of environmental organizations. "People are not taking this lightly."
Swan was on the original task force that helped craft the Highlands Act in 2004. The law and its subsequent master plan placed protections on 860,000 acres that stretches over seven counties and supplies about 379 million gallons of water each day to more than 5 million residents.
Political observers say her removal is simply a move to replace a holdover from former Gov. Jon Corzine's administration.
The 15-member Highlands Council needs a minimum of eight votes to take any action.
The governor's office won't comment on the issue beyond saying it is up to the Highlands Council to make a decision.
Council Chairman Jim Rilee was equally tight-lipped.
"At this point the matter is under consideration by the council, and I won't have any further comment at this time," he said.
Environmentalists say Christie wants to tap Gene Feyl, a political ally and a Republican Morris County freeholder, for the position. Feyl is the former mayor of Denville and is a food industry consultant to Kraft and other companies. Feyl did not return a phone call seeking comment.
If Swan is replaced, it will end the career of someone her former colleagues say is irreplaceable because of her vast knowledge of Highlands issues.
"There is simply no legitimate basis on which Mr. Christie could seek her removal based on her performance in the job," said Ed Potosnak the executive director of The New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. "This is a politically motivated maneuver and our drinking water will suffer should this move succeed."
Swan said she will attend the meeting and will conduct business as usual. "I'll be there Thursday, and I'll be doing my job until the end," she said in a brief interview this week. "I have no doubt about my work ethic and the work my staff and I have accomplished through the years."
Despite being a Republican, Swan had close ties to Corzine. She was tapped by Corzine's transition team to co-chair his environmental policy team. She then headed the Office of Smart Growth under Corzine.
But politicians from both aisles who worked with Swan said she was as non-partisan as they come and praised her effectiveness in the Highlands.
"I'm a Democrat and I never knew what party she belonged to," said former Bergen County Freeholder Elizabeth Calabrese, who served on the council for four years until 2009.
"It never came into any deliberations because Eileen never let it. She is the consummate professional."
Governor's appointees
Since the Highlands executive director is appointed by the council, Christie was unable to immediately replace Swan when he took office 14 months ago. But he was able to appoint council members like Rilee, Hunterdon County Freeholder Robert Walton and Lopatcong Councilman James Mengucci who like Christie have criticized the Highlands protections as detrimental to economic development.
In 2007, Swan was chosen unanimously by the bipartisan Highlands Council to be its third executive director. Swan oversees a 25-person staff and a $2.5 million operating budget.
Swan has been described as a policy wonk, having mastered the complexities of the Highlands protections. In one breath, she will use multiple acronyms, planning terms and environmental jargon to explain how something works. In the next breath, she will translate it into something an ordinary person can grasp.
Swan had to constantly deal with competing interests, often at the same council meeting.
Farmers complain that their property values have been decimated because no one can develop their land.
Town officials complain that they can't attract big businesses to increase their tax base. And despite their recent outcry over Swan's possible removal, environmentalists have blasted her for recommending that two pipeline upgrades and an electric tower line be approved through the Highlands.
"She was able to find the balance between the extremism on the environmental side and the extremism on the development side," said former Morris County Freeholder Jack Schrier, a Republican who served on the council for eight years. "Her allegiance was to the legislation."
Original Article Found at: http://www.northjersey.com/news/environment/142739265_Highlands_director_s_supporters_set_protest.html?page=all
Environmentalists say the expected public firing today of the executive director of the state Highlands Council will be the start of Governor Christie's plans to roll back key environmental protections in the region.
EILEEN SWAN Supporters of Eileen Swan are planning to descend on the council's headquarters in Morris County to protest the decision.
"I think there will be a great outpouring of support for her," said Julia Somers, executive director of the Highlands Coalition, a group of environmental organizations. "People are not taking this lightly."
Swan was on the original task force that helped craft the Highlands Act in 2004. The law and its subsequent master plan placed protections on 860,000 acres that stretches over seven counties and supplies about 379 million gallons of water each day to more than 5 million residents.
Political observers say her removal is simply a move to replace a holdover from former Gov. Jon Corzine's administration.
The 15-member Highlands Council needs a minimum of eight votes to take any action.
The governor's office won't comment on the issue beyond saying it is up to the Highlands Council to make a decision.
Council Chairman Jim Rilee was equally tight-lipped.
"At this point the matter is under consideration by the council, and I won't have any further comment at this time," he said.
Environmentalists say Christie wants to tap Gene Feyl, a political ally and a Republican Morris County freeholder, for the position. Feyl is the former mayor of Denville and is a food industry consultant to Kraft and other companies. Feyl did not return a phone call seeking comment.
If Swan is replaced, it will end the career of someone her former colleagues say is irreplaceable because of her vast knowledge of Highlands issues.
"There is simply no legitimate basis on which Mr. Christie could seek her removal based on her performance in the job," said Ed Potosnak the executive director of The New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. "This is a politically motivated maneuver and our drinking water will suffer should this move succeed."
Swan said she will attend the meeting and will conduct business as usual. "I'll be there Thursday, and I'll be doing my job until the end," she said in a brief interview this week. "I have no doubt about my work ethic and the work my staff and I have accomplished through the years."
Despite being a Republican, Swan had close ties to Corzine. She was tapped by Corzine's transition team to co-chair his environmental policy team. She then headed the Office of Smart Growth under Corzine.
But politicians from both aisles who worked with Swan said she was as non-partisan as they come and praised her effectiveness in the Highlands.
"I'm a Democrat and I never knew what party she belonged to," said former Bergen County Freeholder Elizabeth Calabrese, who served on the council for four years until 2009.
"It never came into any deliberations because Eileen never let it. She is the consummate professional."
Governor's appointees
Since the Highlands executive director is appointed by the council, Christie was unable to immediately replace Swan when he took office 14 months ago. But he was able to appoint council members like Rilee, Hunterdon County Freeholder Robert Walton and Lopatcong Councilman James Mengucci who like Christie have criticized the Highlands protections as detrimental to economic development.
In 2007, Swan was chosen unanimously by the bipartisan Highlands Council to be its third executive director. Swan oversees a 25-person staff and a $2.5 million operating budget.
Swan has been described as a policy wonk, having mastered the complexities of the Highlands protections. In one breath, she will use multiple acronyms, planning terms and environmental jargon to explain how something works. In the next breath, she will translate it into something an ordinary person can grasp.
Swan had to constantly deal with competing interests, often at the same council meeting.
Farmers complain that their property values have been decimated because no one can develop their land.
Town officials complain that they can't attract big businesses to increase their tax base. And despite their recent outcry over Swan's possible removal, environmentalists have blasted her for recommending that two pipeline upgrades and an electric tower line be approved through the Highlands.
"She was able to find the balance between the extremism on the environmental side and the extremism on the development side," said former Morris County Freeholder Jack Schrier, a Republican who served on the council for eight years. "Her allegiance was to the legislation."
Original Article Found at: http://www.northjersey.com/news/environment/142739265_Highlands_director_s_supporters_set_protest.html?page=all
Trenton Times: Secure Highlands Council from political winds
The New Jersey League of Conservation Voters (NJLCV) is gravely concerned about news that the Highlands Council will meet today to decide whether to fire Eileen Swan, the council’s executive director (nj.com, “N.J. Highlands Council expected to vote on executive director’s fate,” March 13). We fear that the governor will replace her with a patronage appointment.
NJLCV believes strongly that the Highlands Council must retain its statutory independence in reality, not just in name. To serve the people of the Highlands and the millions of families and businesses who rely on Highlands water, the council must provide certainty and foster confidence that the Regional Master Plan is stable and will not shift with each change in the political leadership of the state.
If Gov. Christie pressures council members to remove a sitting executive director, and the council accedes to such pressure, it sends the message that the Highlands and its growth management plan is up for grabs with each electoral cycle.
Ms. Swan has proven herself to be an exceptionally competent and successful executive director, and there is simply no legitimate basis on which Mr. Christie could seek her removal based on her job performance.
NJLCV was formed to increase public understanding of, and engagement in, environmental policies. NJLCV has informed the administration that we will include actions affecting the independence and success of the Highlands Council in our Administrative Report Card, similar to our Legislative Scorecard, found at njlcv.org.
We ask all those concerned about clean water in New Jersey to join us in calling on the governor to do the right thing and put clean water ahead of politics in the Highlands.
-- Ed Potosnak,
Trenton
Original Article at: http://www.nj.com/times-opinion/index.ssf/2012/03/times_of_trenton_letters_to_th_281.html
NJLCV believes strongly that the Highlands Council must retain its statutory independence in reality, not just in name. To serve the people of the Highlands and the millions of families and businesses who rely on Highlands water, the council must provide certainty and foster confidence that the Regional Master Plan is stable and will not shift with each change in the political leadership of the state.
If Gov. Christie pressures council members to remove a sitting executive director, and the council accedes to such pressure, it sends the message that the Highlands and its growth management plan is up for grabs with each electoral cycle.
Ms. Swan has proven herself to be an exceptionally competent and successful executive director, and there is simply no legitimate basis on which Mr. Christie could seek her removal based on her job performance.
NJLCV was formed to increase public understanding of, and engagement in, environmental policies. NJLCV has informed the administration that we will include actions affecting the independence and success of the Highlands Council in our Administrative Report Card, similar to our Legislative Scorecard, found at njlcv.org.
We ask all those concerned about clean water in New Jersey to join us in calling on the governor to do the right thing and put clean water ahead of politics in the Highlands.
-- Ed Potosnak,
Trenton
Original Article at: http://www.nj.com/times-opinion/index.ssf/2012/03/times_of_trenton_letters_to_th_281.html
NJ League of Conservation Voters Urges Gov. Christie to Put Clean Water Ahead of Politics in Highlands
TRENTON, NJ—The New Jersey League of Conservation Voters (NJLCV) is gravely concerned with news that Governor Christie has intervened to press members of the Highlands Council to fire Eileen Swan, the Council’s executive director, and replace her with a patronage appointment.
NJLCV was formed in 2010 to increase public understanding of, and engagement in, environmental policies of our state and local governments. NJLCV began with a Legislative Scorecard, chronicling how all legislators have voted on bills affecting the environment. NJLCV is intent on providing an Administrative Report Card, similar to our Legislative Scorecard, outlining the actions of each Governor with regard to the environment. This report card will be published in advance of gubernatorial elections, so New Jersey voters have objective, detailed information on each Administration’s environmental performance.
NJLCV sent a letter today to Governor Chris Christie indicating the League will include the Administration’s actions affecting the independence and success of the Highlands Council in that scorecard.
“The New Jersey League of Conservation Voters (NJLCV) believes strongly that the Highlands Council must retain its statutory independence in reality, not just in name,” said Ed Potosnak the League’s Executive Director. “To serve the people of the Highlands and the millions of families and businesses who rely on Highlands water, the Council must bring consistency over time to its policies and procedures. It must provide certainty and foster confidence that the Regional Master Plan is stable and will not shift with each change in the political leadership of the state,” Potosnak added.
“If Governor Christie or future governors pressure Council members to remove a sitting Executive Director, and the Council accedes to such pressure, it will send the message that the Highlands and its growth management plan is up for grabs with each electoral cycle,” said Potosnak.
“Ms. Swan has proven herself to be an exceptionally competent and successful executive director of the Council and there is simply no legitimate basis on which Mr. Christie could seek her removal based on her performance in the job, this is a politically motivated maneuver and our drinking water will suffer should this move succeed,” Potosnak concluded.
The NJ LCV is a non-partisan, non-profit, public education, policy making and political action organization that works to make environmental protection a top priority with elected officials, decision-makers and the voters. To learn more, and see our Legislative Scorecard, visit www.njlcv.org.
# # #
NJLCV was formed in 2010 to increase public understanding of, and engagement in, environmental policies of our state and local governments. NJLCV began with a Legislative Scorecard, chronicling how all legislators have voted on bills affecting the environment. NJLCV is intent on providing an Administrative Report Card, similar to our Legislative Scorecard, outlining the actions of each Governor with regard to the environment. This report card will be published in advance of gubernatorial elections, so New Jersey voters have objective, detailed information on each Administration’s environmental performance.
NJLCV sent a letter today to Governor Chris Christie indicating the League will include the Administration’s actions affecting the independence and success of the Highlands Council in that scorecard.
“The New Jersey League of Conservation Voters (NJLCV) believes strongly that the Highlands Council must retain its statutory independence in reality, not just in name,” said Ed Potosnak the League’s Executive Director. “To serve the people of the Highlands and the millions of families and businesses who rely on Highlands water, the Council must bring consistency over time to its policies and procedures. It must provide certainty and foster confidence that the Regional Master Plan is stable and will not shift with each change in the political leadership of the state,” Potosnak added.
“If Governor Christie or future governors pressure Council members to remove a sitting Executive Director, and the Council accedes to such pressure, it will send the message that the Highlands and its growth management plan is up for grabs with each electoral cycle,” said Potosnak.
“Ms. Swan has proven herself to be an exceptionally competent and successful executive director of the Council and there is simply no legitimate basis on which Mr. Christie could seek her removal based on her performance in the job, this is a politically motivated maneuver and our drinking water will suffer should this move succeed,” Potosnak concluded.
The NJ LCV is a non-partisan, non-profit, public education, policy making and political action organization that works to make environmental protection a top priority with elected officials, decision-makers and the voters. To learn more, and see our Legislative Scorecard, visit www.njlcv.org.
# # #
BlueJersey: Focus Ed Potosnak (E.D. @NJLCV)
February 18, 2012
by: deciminyan
Ed Potosnak is a Central Jersey resident who at age 39 has already had a varied and distinguished career. He's been a small business owner, school teacher, congressional fellow, congressional staffer, and a candidate for the House of Representatives. Recently, he embarked on his next career move, having been named the Executive Director of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. And although I'm disappointed that Ed is not going to represent the 7th District in Congress, his knowledge, passion, and personality are a perfect fit for this difficult job of protecting our fragile environment.
I was pleased to be able to visit Ed in the League's Trenton office to learn more about his new and critically important job.
Original Article: http://www.bluejersey.com/diary/20444/blue-jersey-focus-ed-potosnak
by: deciminyan
Ed Potosnak is a Central Jersey resident who at age 39 has already had a varied and distinguished career. He's been a small business owner, school teacher, congressional fellow, congressional staffer, and a candidate for the House of Representatives. Recently, he embarked on his next career move, having been named the Executive Director of the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters. And although I'm disappointed that Ed is not going to represent the 7th District in Congress, his knowledge, passion, and personality are a perfect fit for this difficult job of protecting our fragile environment.
I was pleased to be able to visit Ed in the League's Trenton office to learn more about his new and critically important job.
Original Article: http://www.bluejersey.com/diary/20444/blue-jersey-focus-ed-potosnak
Asbury Park Press: "Help in the fight against pollution of waterways"
1/30/12
The recent Asbury Park Press series on New Jersey’s waters was a real awakening for many New Jersey residents as to the extent to which our waters are polluted. As Todd Bates and Kirk Moore so eloquently pointed out, nature has systems for improving the quality of water naturally, and we are destroying this natural infrastructure.
We recently saw the power of an educated and motivated public in the national fight against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline. But here in New Jersey, our citizens have not been as fortunate due to a limited participation by voters.
In the last few weeks, the Legislature passed and governor signed a dirty water bill that will allow the expansion of development into environmentally sensitive areas. This bill’s passage will further exacerbate an already grave situation. If we want to see more than one clean river in our entire state, we need to enlist the same passion that halted the XL pipeline.
The New Jersey League of Conservation Voters is helping the citizens of our state take a more active role in holding the legislators we voted into office accountable for actions they take to undermine our right to clean water.
Please join our efforts. We want to ensure all our public officials are leaders in the protection of public health and the environment, not working against us.
Ed Potosnak
Executive Director, New Jersey League of Conservation Voters
Link to Article: http://www.app.com/article/20120131/NJOPINION02/301310016/Help-fight-against-pollution-waterways?odyssey=nav|head
The recent Asbury Park Press series on New Jersey’s waters was a real awakening for many New Jersey residents as to the extent to which our waters are polluted. As Todd Bates and Kirk Moore so eloquently pointed out, nature has systems for improving the quality of water naturally, and we are destroying this natural infrastructure.
We recently saw the power of an educated and motivated public in the national fight against the proposed Keystone XL pipeline. But here in New Jersey, our citizens have not been as fortunate due to a limited participation by voters.
In the last few weeks, the Legislature passed and governor signed a dirty water bill that will allow the expansion of development into environmentally sensitive areas. This bill’s passage will further exacerbate an already grave situation. If we want to see more than one clean river in our entire state, we need to enlist the same passion that halted the XL pipeline.
The New Jersey League of Conservation Voters is helping the citizens of our state take a more active role in holding the legislators we voted into office accountable for actions they take to undermine our right to clean water.
Please join our efforts. We want to ensure all our public officials are leaders in the protection of public health and the environment, not working against us.
Ed Potosnak
Executive Director, New Jersey League of Conservation Voters
Link to Article: http://www.app.com/article/20120131/NJOPINION02/301310016/Help-fight-against-pollution-waterways?odyssey=nav|head
Potosnak to Serve as Executive Director for the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters
Ed Potosnak
January 16, 2012
TRENTON, NJ—The New Jersey League of Conservation Voters (NJLCV) and New Jersey League of Conservation Voters Education Fund (NJLCVEF) announced today that Ed Potosnak will serve as the organization’s Executive Director.
Debbie Mans, Chair of the NJLCV said “The New Jersey League of Conservation Voters is very excited to welcome Ed Potosnak as our Executive Director. His unique background in science and education coupled with his experience in environmental policy and legislation will provide voters and Members of the State Legislature with accurate, non-partisan, information. NJLCV will also expand its practice of scoring legislation and the records of State Legislators to inform voters which public officials in Trenton can be trusted to safeguard our land, water, air, wildlife and communities. I know that we have found a passionate, articulate and intelligent leader in Ed and I look forward to working with him. ”
While teaching High School Chemistry, Mr. Potosnak was selected for the highly competitive Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowship and served for more than two years in Washington D.C. in the office of Congressman Mike Honda (D-CA). Part of Mr. Potosnak’s legislative portfolio included environmental protection. He is currently an adjunct faculty member at Rutgers University.
“I am honored to join the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters as Executive Director,” Potosnak said. “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” he exclaimed. “The NJLCV’s membership is extremely diverse and I look forward building on the grass roots energy of our members to ensure our children and future generations have access to clean water and air, as well as conserved land and wildlife to enjoy,” Potosnak concluded.
Potosnak will also serve as Executive Director of the League of Conservation Voters Education Fund (NJLCVEF), a sister organization to NJLCV that works to increase the capacity of the environmental
movement, mobilize citizens as informed voters, and advocate for sound environmental policies.
Margaret O’Gorman, Chair of the NJLCVEF welcomed Ed Potosnak, saying “Ed understands the need for a clear and consistent voice communicating about environmental issues in New Jersey. Residents, voters and environmental advocates will all benefit from his knowledge and energy.”
The NJ LCV is a non-partisan, non-profit, public education, policy making and political action organization that works to make environmental protection a top priority with elected officials, decision-makers and the voters. To learn more, visit www.njlcv.org.
TRENTON, NJ—The New Jersey League of Conservation Voters (NJLCV) and New Jersey League of Conservation Voters Education Fund (NJLCVEF) announced today that Ed Potosnak will serve as the organization’s Executive Director.
Debbie Mans, Chair of the NJLCV said “The New Jersey League of Conservation Voters is very excited to welcome Ed Potosnak as our Executive Director. His unique background in science and education coupled with his experience in environmental policy and legislation will provide voters and Members of the State Legislature with accurate, non-partisan, information. NJLCV will also expand its practice of scoring legislation and the records of State Legislators to inform voters which public officials in Trenton can be trusted to safeguard our land, water, air, wildlife and communities. I know that we have found a passionate, articulate and intelligent leader in Ed and I look forward to working with him. ”
While teaching High School Chemistry, Mr. Potosnak was selected for the highly competitive Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellowship and served for more than two years in Washington D.C. in the office of Congressman Mike Honda (D-CA). Part of Mr. Potosnak’s legislative portfolio included environmental protection. He is currently an adjunct faculty member at Rutgers University.
“I am honored to join the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters as Executive Director,” Potosnak said. “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” he exclaimed. “The NJLCV’s membership is extremely diverse and I look forward building on the grass roots energy of our members to ensure our children and future generations have access to clean water and air, as well as conserved land and wildlife to enjoy,” Potosnak concluded.
Potosnak will also serve as Executive Director of the League of Conservation Voters Education Fund (NJLCVEF), a sister organization to NJLCV that works to increase the capacity of the environmental
movement, mobilize citizens as informed voters, and advocate for sound environmental policies.
Margaret O’Gorman, Chair of the NJLCVEF welcomed Ed Potosnak, saying “Ed understands the need for a clear and consistent voice communicating about environmental issues in New Jersey. Residents, voters and environmental advocates will all benefit from his knowledge and energy.”
The NJ LCV is a non-partisan, non-profit, public education, policy making and political action organization that works to make environmental protection a top priority with elected officials, decision-makers and the voters. To learn more, visit www.njlcv.org.
NEW JERSEY LEAGUE OF CONSERVATION VOTERS UNVEILS ENDORSMENTS FOR STATE LEGISLATURE
October 21, 2011
TRENTON, NJ – In an effort to emphasize champions of environmental protection and land conservation, the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters (NJLCV) today announced endorsements in the November 2011 state legislative elections.
“We felt it was important to identify legislators who have distinguished themselves as defenders of the environment,” said Debbie Mans, chair of the NJLCV. “With the entire Senate and Assembly up for re-election this year, the results will likely determine whether vital environmental laws will stay on the books, or whether they will be scaled back.”
Mans said that Governor Christie’s decision to withdraw the state from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) as well as pending legislation to prohibit the NJ Department of Environmental Protection from exceeding federal minimum standards are just two recent examples of the political reality faced by environmental advocates.
“New Jersey’s environment is in jeopardy by a prolonged economic downturn, unprecedented state fiscal challenges and a state government intent on rolling back many environmental regulations and initiatives,” added Carleton Montgomery, chair of the NJLCV Policy Committee. “Our response is to provide voters another tool to help make informed decisions about who is the best choice to send to Trenton to safeguard our land, water, air, wildlife and communities.”
Montgomery noted that the NJLCV evaluated the environmental performance of candidates seeking office in the November state legislative elections by scoring key environmental votes and by distributing and evaluating the results of a 12 question policy survey.
The NJLCV is a non-partisan, non-profit, public education, policy making and political action organization that works to make environmental protection a top priority with elected officials, decision-makers and the voters. To learn more, visit www.njlcv.org.
NJLCV Endorsements for November State Legislative Elections
Assemblyman Herb Conaway – LD 7
Senator Linda Greenstein – LD 14
Assemblyman Daniel Benson – LD 14
Assemblyman Reed Gusciora – LD 15
Senator Bob Smith – LD 17
Senator Barbara Buono – LD 18
Senator Peter Barnes – LD 18
Senator Joe Vitale – LD 19
Assemblywoman Mila Jasey – LD 27
Assemblyman John McKeon – LD 27
Assemblywoman Nellie Pou – LD 35
Senator Loretta Weinberg – LD 37
Assemblywoman Valerie Vaineiri Huttle – LD 37
Senator Robert Gordon – LD 38
Assemblywoman Connie Wagner – LD 38
TRENTON, NJ – In an effort to emphasize champions of environmental protection and land conservation, the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters (NJLCV) today announced endorsements in the November 2011 state legislative elections.
“We felt it was important to identify legislators who have distinguished themselves as defenders of the environment,” said Debbie Mans, chair of the NJLCV. “With the entire Senate and Assembly up for re-election this year, the results will likely determine whether vital environmental laws will stay on the books, or whether they will be scaled back.”
Mans said that Governor Christie’s decision to withdraw the state from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) as well as pending legislation to prohibit the NJ Department of Environmental Protection from exceeding federal minimum standards are just two recent examples of the political reality faced by environmental advocates.
“New Jersey’s environment is in jeopardy by a prolonged economic downturn, unprecedented state fiscal challenges and a state government intent on rolling back many environmental regulations and initiatives,” added Carleton Montgomery, chair of the NJLCV Policy Committee. “Our response is to provide voters another tool to help make informed decisions about who is the best choice to send to Trenton to safeguard our land, water, air, wildlife and communities.”
Montgomery noted that the NJLCV evaluated the environmental performance of candidates seeking office in the November state legislative elections by scoring key environmental votes and by distributing and evaluating the results of a 12 question policy survey.
The NJLCV is a non-partisan, non-profit, public education, policy making and political action organization that works to make environmental protection a top priority with elected officials, decision-makers and the voters. To learn more, visit www.njlcv.org.
NJLCV Endorsements for November State Legislative Elections
Assemblyman Herb Conaway – LD 7
Senator Linda Greenstein – LD 14
Assemblyman Daniel Benson – LD 14
Assemblyman Reed Gusciora – LD 15
Senator Bob Smith – LD 17
Senator Barbara Buono – LD 18
Senator Peter Barnes – LD 18
Senator Joe Vitale – LD 19
Assemblywoman Mila Jasey – LD 27
Assemblyman John McKeon – LD 27
Assemblywoman Nellie Pou – LD 35
Senator Loretta Weinberg – LD 37
Assemblywoman Valerie Vaineiri Huttle – LD 37
Senator Robert Gordon – LD 38
Assemblywoman Connie Wagner – LD 38
Environmental Activists Launch New Jersey League of Conservation Voters
May 12, 2010
Trenton, NJ- Several of New Jersey's leading environmental activists launched the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters (NJLCV), a non-partisan, non-profit, public education, and policy making organization that works to make environmental protection a top priority with elected officials, decision-makers and the voters.
"From the White House to the state house, it's more important than ever that we advance strong environmental policies that protect the air our children breathe and the water they drink," said Shirin Bidel-Niyat, national LCV campaigns director. "We welcome the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters to the LCV family and we look forward to working with them to build a cleaner, safer, more sustainable future."
"NJLCV will seek adoption and implementation of key environmental and public health policies, regulations and legislation; evaluate the environmental performance of public officials, , and endorse environmental leaders for public office in the GardenState," explained Sandy Batty, Treasurer.
NJLCV will develop and publicize a “scorecard” on key environmental legislation and other activities, as well as a "report card" for the governor and senior administrative officials.
"Using the scorecard, NJLCV will track elected officials’ records to distinguish between those who act to protect and improve our quality of life and those who don’t," said Carleton Montgomery.
"NJLCV will develop a proactive environmental agenda seeking adoption of key policies and laws needed to safeguard the environment of every community – urban, suburban, and rural - throughout the GardenState," said Debbie Mans, Chair.
"We look forward to engaging with and supporting the efforts of all environmental organizations in New Jersey," said Eric Stiles, Secretary. "NJLCV will be drawing on the expertise of other environmentalists throughout the state for advice in establishing the organization's agenda and selecting what issues merit placement on the scorecard."
"Our goal is to empower the broader environmental community to become more engaged and effective in the public policy process, and by serving as a voice for that broader community," said Michele Byers, Co-Chair.
"In recent years, far too few elected officials have made the environment and our health a priority, and many citizens are concerned that our environmental laws, regulations and programs are under attack by those who would roll back the substantial progress that has been made in the last 50 years," said Bill Sheehan.
"This attack on the environment has come at the same New Jersey voters are reaffirming their long tradition of support for policies to protect the State's enviroment, such as approval of Public Question One last year to continue state open space preservation efforts," said Jim Waltman.
" New Jersey has a long tradition of non-partisan environmental leadership and a diverse, effective constituency for environmental issues," said Valorie Caffee.
"NJLCV will help strengthen environmental advocacy by informing legislators about the issues and educating voters on the legislators’ voting records. NJLCV will alert the public and the media of key actions of public officials and closely monitor regulatory agencies and executive appointments," said Julia Somers.
"NJLCV will undertake initiatives to expand public participation in the legislative process and give a powerful voice to citizens who value the environment," said Tom Gilbert.
"Launching NJLCV provides an opportunity for the broad, deep and diverse conservation and environmental communities in the state to participate in the public policy process," said Tim Dillingham.
Trenton, NJ- Several of New Jersey's leading environmental activists launched the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters (NJLCV), a non-partisan, non-profit, public education, and policy making organization that works to make environmental protection a top priority with elected officials, decision-makers and the voters.
"From the White House to the state house, it's more important than ever that we advance strong environmental policies that protect the air our children breathe and the water they drink," said Shirin Bidel-Niyat, national LCV campaigns director. "We welcome the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters to the LCV family and we look forward to working with them to build a cleaner, safer, more sustainable future."
"NJLCV will seek adoption and implementation of key environmental and public health policies, regulations and legislation; evaluate the environmental performance of public officials, , and endorse environmental leaders for public office in the GardenState," explained Sandy Batty, Treasurer.
NJLCV will develop and publicize a “scorecard” on key environmental legislation and other activities, as well as a "report card" for the governor and senior administrative officials.
"Using the scorecard, NJLCV will track elected officials’ records to distinguish between those who act to protect and improve our quality of life and those who don’t," said Carleton Montgomery.
"NJLCV will develop a proactive environmental agenda seeking adoption of key policies and laws needed to safeguard the environment of every community – urban, suburban, and rural - throughout the GardenState," said Debbie Mans, Chair.
"We look forward to engaging with and supporting the efforts of all environmental organizations in New Jersey," said Eric Stiles, Secretary. "NJLCV will be drawing on the expertise of other environmentalists throughout the state for advice in establishing the organization's agenda and selecting what issues merit placement on the scorecard."
"Our goal is to empower the broader environmental community to become more engaged and effective in the public policy process, and by serving as a voice for that broader community," said Michele Byers, Co-Chair.
"In recent years, far too few elected officials have made the environment and our health a priority, and many citizens are concerned that our environmental laws, regulations and programs are under attack by those who would roll back the substantial progress that has been made in the last 50 years," said Bill Sheehan.
"This attack on the environment has come at the same New Jersey voters are reaffirming their long tradition of support for policies to protect the State's enviroment, such as approval of Public Question One last year to continue state open space preservation efforts," said Jim Waltman.
" New Jersey has a long tradition of non-partisan environmental leadership and a diverse, effective constituency for environmental issues," said Valorie Caffee.
"NJLCV will help strengthen environmental advocacy by informing legislators about the issues and educating voters on the legislators’ voting records. NJLCV will alert the public and the media of key actions of public officials and closely monitor regulatory agencies and executive appointments," said Julia Somers.
"NJLCV will undertake initiatives to expand public participation in the legislative process and give a powerful voice to citizens who value the environment," said Tom Gilbert.
"Launching NJLCV provides an opportunity for the broad, deep and diverse conservation and environmental communities in the state to participate in the public policy process," said Tim Dillingham.