Building a Stronger Community Through Economic Growth, Business Support, and Services for All Residents

Vernon Township has tremendous potential to grow into a more prosperous, business-friendly, and community-focused town. To achieve this, we need proactive leadership that attracts businesses, supports local entrepreneurs, expands senior services, and improves transportation options for all residents.

1. Attracting Businesses & Strengthening Local Job Growth

Expanding Vernon’s economic opportunities means making our town a desirable place to do business while ensuring residents have access to stable, well-paying jobs.

✅ Economic Development Initiatives

• Work closely with economic development agencies and the local Chamber of Commerce to bring new businesses, investments, and job opportunities to Vernon.
• Focus on attracting industries that align with our town’s strengths, including tourism, recreation, hospitality, healthcare, technology, and small manufacturing.
• Develop a Vernon Business Attraction Plan that highlights our affordable land, skilled workforce, and unique recreational appeal to prospective investors.
  
  

✅ Business Incentive Programs

• Offer targeted tax breaks or grants to businesses that bring new jobs, revitalize vacant properties, or contribute to sustainable economic development.
• Work with state and federal programs to secure funding that supports local business growth and expansion.
• Encourage public-private partnerships to support infrastructure improvements, commercial development, and community projects.
  
  

✅ Supporting Employee Recruitment & Retention

• Collaborate with local schools, community colleges, and workforce programs to create a pipeline of skilled workers for Vernon’s businesses.
• Develop workforce housing incentives to attract and retain employees, ensuring they can live, work, and thrive in Vernon.
• Advocate for job training programs that prepare residents for careers in high-demand fields within our region.

2. Making It Easier to Start & Grow a Business

Small businesses and entrepreneurs are the backbone of Vernon’s economy. We must streamline processes, reduce red tape, and support new business ventures.

✅ Business Permit Task Force

• Form a task force consisting of business owners, local officials, and regulatory experts to review and improve the township’s permitting and licensing processes.
• Eliminate unnecessary bureaucratic delays that slow business development while maintaining essential safety and zoning regulations.
  
  

✅ Online Business Application System

• Implement an easy-to-use online portal where businesses can apply for permits, track approvals, and communicate with township officials without unnecessary paperwork delays.
• Ensure a transparent process with clear timelines, so business owners know exactly what steps are required and how long approvals will take.
  
  

✅ Entrepreneurship Support & Small Business Growth

• Establish a Business Development Resource Center that provides mentorship, legal guidance, and access to financial assistance for startups and small businesses.
• Organize workshops and seminars covering key topics such as business planning, marketing, financing, and digital transformation.
• Encourage collaboration between small businesses and local schools to create internships and mentorship opportunities for young entrepreneurs.

3. Expanding Senior Services & Community Education

Vernon’s senior population deserves access to quality services, educational programs, and support systems to help them lead healthy, independent lives.

✅ Community Education & Senior Resource Partnerships

• Partner with local senior centers, libraries, and organizations to offer educational programs on:
  • Healthcare options & Medicare guidance
  • Legal matters, estate planning, and financial security
  • Digital literacy, including online banking and social media safety
  • Mental health awareness and social engagement opportunities
• Provide outreach and workshops at community centers, churches, and civic groups to ensure all seniors have access to resources.
  
  

✅ Creating an Easy-to-Use Senior Resource Hub

• Develop a centralized website and hotline where seniors and their families can quickly access information on:
  • Local senior programs
  • Healthcare services
  • Housing assistance
  • Transportation options
  • Volunteer and social opportunities
    
    

✅ Advocating for Expanded Senior Services

• Work with state and county agencies to increase funding and resources for senior programs in Vernon.
• Support home care assistance programs and affordable housing initiatives for seniors.

4. Improving Transportation for Seniors & All Residents

Reliable transportation is key to independence, quality of life, and economic opportunity for all residents—especially seniors, commuters, and those without access to personal vehicles.

✅ Senior Shuttle Services

• Launch a dedicated senior shuttle service to provide reliable transportation to:
  • Medical appointments, pharmacies, and senior centers
  • Grocery stores and essential shopping locations
  • Community and recreational activities
• Advocate for county and state funding to expand Sussex County transportation resources for Vernon’s senior residents.
  
  

✅ Public Transportation Expansion

• Explore partnerships with NJ Transit and regional transportation providers to:
  • Improve bus services and transit options for Vernon residents.
  • Develop rideshare and carpooling initiatives to support commuters and local employees.
  • Identify and advocate for park-and-ride options for residents traveling to work outside of Vernon.
    
    

✅ Walkability & Infrastructure Improvements

• Invest in sidewalk expansions and pedestrian-friendly pathways in key areas to improve walkability and safety for all residents.
• Advocate for bike lanes and multi-use trails to promote alternative transportation options and recreation opportunities.
  
  

Building a Future-Ready Vernon Township

✅ Make Vernon a magnet for businesses, investors, and job creators
✅ Cut red tape and simplify business permits to fuel local entrepreneurship
✅ Expand services and resources for seniors and their families
✅ Enhance transportation options for all residents, including seniors and commuters
✅ Ensure long-term economic sustainability through responsible planning

With proactive leadership, smart policies, and community-driven solutions, Vernon Township can grow responsibly, support its residents, and create a stronger future for everyone.