by John L. Shinnick

The Hudson County Improvement Authority is an independent agency with enormous responsibilities that impact every county resident. That’s why it’s important to have a good working relationship with our new county administration. Everyone at the HCIA is very proud of the agency’s record of managing environmental and solid waste issues efficiently, stimulating the construction of thousands of units of affordable housing, and providing key financing that makes new agencies like the North Hudson Regional Fire & Rescue possible.

From his first day in office in 2002, County Executive Tom DeGise has provided the leadership necessary to make the HCIA even more vital to the future of Hudson County. Today the HCIA is evolving. We’re working to meet the demands of a struggling economy by focusing on economic development efforts that will stimulate new jobs and new tax ratables. Our agency is working on two exciting opportunities in West Hudson — the development of the Harrison riverfront and the redevelopment of the Koppers Koke site in Kearny.

I know I speak for every HCIA Commissioner when I say that we are very pleased to be working closely with County Executive DeGise and his administration. I’m sure that we’ll continue to build on this trust and cooperation to the benefit of every Hudson County municipality.