Dear Editor:
As one of the most densely populated municipalities in the New Jersey Highlands, Parsippany-Troy Hills, with its abundant commercial corridors along Routes 46 and 10 and elsewhere, has not disproved the trend that the towns with the most development have the highest taxes. The ratables chase that has led much of its land use decisions has resulted in congestion, damaged lake ecologies, a stressed water supply, flooding, high taxes and other quality of life challenges.
Parsippany-Troy Hills has a chance right now to begin a process of transformation, to channel its redevelopment opportunities towards a coordinated vision that is smart, which enhances rather than depletes its water supply, reduces flooding and that re-establishes a sense of place and community. Rather than developers dictating the needs of the community, the community will invite compatible development to fulfil its needs according to a unified, thoughtful vision. This will be supported by outside grant funding and planning expertise that will shine a bright light on the process, forcing the kind of transparency that prevents back room deals and favors to developers.
On Tuesday, December 18 the Parsippany Town Council will vote on whether or not to get back on track with Conformance to the Highlands Regional Master Plan, the process that will enable this positive transformation. Come hear about Conformance, what it really means for Parsippany and what it has done for other Highlands municipalities that have opted in to Conformance. Please urge the council to pass a resolution to request Parsippany’s participation in the conformance process.
This is a great opportunity to make a difference in the future of Parsippany. Please be a part of it.
Ken Dolsky
