Question 2: Name one Verona ordinance or regulation that should be eliminated and why.
Donna Cannizzaro: At some recent council meetings, a question had been raised with regard to our downtown business district concerning signs in the windows. This subject was discussed amongst the council members, and it was learned that there may be ordinances that are contradictory or vague with regard to the percentage of the store-front window can be covered by signage, advertising, as well as other window and sidewalk displays and the type and brightness lighting.
While it is imperative to the character and prosperity of our entire community to have a thriving downtown business district; we need to be mindful that advertising does not take on the look of certain areas similar to that of a Route 22. By the same token, if we tie business owners’ hands by imposing too many unrealistic and imposing restrictions, we will run the risk of their failure resulting in vacant storefronts on which I’m certain we can all agree will be a detriment to all.
Working closely with Township Officials such as the Town Manager, Township Clerk, Planning and Zoning boards, Township Engineer, and the Township Code Enforcer, the council should examine all ordinances for any possible ambiguity or contradictions and refine and recodify those ordinances that affect our business owners that we might provide clear, manageable and business-friendly guidelines allowing them to thrive and prosper. Partnering with our local businesses to understand proprietor needs which also tighten up parameters around signage, displays and lighting will reinforce our mutual collaboration, and serve to solidify our businesses being good neighbors with regard to implementation, adherence and enforcement.
In examining the Verona website from the perspective of opening a business in Verona one will discover an on-line resident’s handbook which answers most questions. What might be more beneficial, would be a portal with a downloadable handbook for our current and prospective business owners along our main and extended business districts that will provide the best information and resource for building partnerships with the businesses.
