From Lawrence Township's
Business & Economic Growth Committee
About The Business & Economic Growth Committee
The Lawrence Township Business and Economic Growth Committee (formerly the Growth & Redevelopment Committee) consists of nineteen members that care about the growth and stability of local businesses. The at-large members and private sector members are appointed by the Lawrence Township Council and serve a term of three years. Representatives of the Planning Board, Zoning Board, Trails, Open Space and Stewardship Advisory Committee, and the Environmental and Green Advisory Committee are appointed annually by the chairs of these boards and committees. The Committee works closely with liaisons from the Board of Education and the Council. For more information about our members and to apply for a position on the committee, click here.
We Aim To ...
Facilitate Local Business Networking and Support
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Objective: Work with the Township’s Community Liaison to organize and host annual networking events to strengthen connections within the business community. We intend to encourage collaboration among local businesses.
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Why: Networking events are vital for small businesses to thrive by sharing resources and knowledge, as well as fostering partnerships that can lead to opportunities, innovation, and growth.
Promote Local Spending
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Objective: Implement awareness programs and introduce incentives that benefit both residents and businesses by linking local spending to local outcomes.
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Why: Such programs encourage residents to shop locally, which boosts the local economy by increasing business revenue and potentially reducing taxes or other incentives for participants.
Advocate for Technology to Improve Our Business Environment
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Objective: Advocate for the Township to develop and maintain digital platforms, and to make Township business resources more accessible and available to current and prospective Lawrence Township businesses using modern technologies. These resources should aim to improve access and communication between the township, local businesses, and residents. Technologies can also support increasing awareness of local business opportunities and facilitating access to information about business activities in Lawrence.
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Why: Using technology will enhance transparency and access to information from the township and, simultaneously, increase the visibility of local businesses, improve community engagement, and streamline access to essential services and information.
Enhance Integration and Advisory Role in Planning and Development
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Objective: Strengthen the committee’s advisory role by systematically reviewing and commenting on upcoming planning and zoning initiatives that impact local businesses and economic development. While the committee's input will remain advisory, it aims to serve as a key resource for the Town Council and to effectively represent the interests and perspectives of the business community.
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Why: This will ensure that the committee has a proactive stance in shaping the community's growth in a way that supports local businesses and aligns with the Town Council and its broader economic objectives.