Election Profile: Linda Nardone-Jeffery For Wayne Council

WAYNE, NJ — Linda Nardone-Jeffery is running for a councilor-at-large seat in this year's township council elections.

Nardone-Jeffery, a scientist and executive with a B.S. in Science from Fairleigh Dickinson University, and an M.S. and Ph.D. in Physiology from Pennsylvania State University, is a former member of the Wayne Environmental Commission.

She joins two other Democrats seeking seats on the council, with three Republicans running as well. Learn more about what she believes, and what she hopes to change in this Patch candidate Q&A.

Why are you seeking office in this election?

I want to improve the management and growth of the Wayne community that I have been part of for 33 years. I am eager to use my extensive corporate experience to make Wayne a more efficient operation.

What is the single most important issue you’d like to tackle in this role, and what is your plan to address it?

The most important single issue is planning for the short and long-term future of Wayne. Effective planning impacts how we manage development, including growth, infrastructure, schools, and roads, to name a few. And it does affect tax dollars. As to how to address it, a new Master Plan is a critical first step along with efforts at revitalization of businesses; examination of redevelopment vs. development; land use and zoning; wetlands and flood plains; and energy efficiency. Without sound planning, we cannot safeguard the short and long-term future of Wayne. When I served on the Environmental Commission, I was very vocal about the need for comprehensive planning. I was very outspoken in voicing my concerns before the council and planning board regarding the need for a new master plan, mixed-use zoning, affordable housing, public input, and conformance with the NJ Energy Plan.

The coronavirus pandemic had a major impact on many aspects of life, and local governments were largely no exception. What are your plans for the future when it comes to offering assistance to those impacted by the pandemic, and where do you think is the best place to start?

Everyone, in some way, has been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Financial assistance through federal, state, and county funding of services and offsets has been crucial to our recovery. The outpouring of generosity and community spirit in Wayne has been inspiring. We need to continue to put people and businesses, especially small business, back on their feet and continue to promote and support efforts toward the food and housing insecurity of our residents and children. I applaud the rent and mortgage assistance that is being provided through state and county funding. I also hope that the $4.899 Million from the American Rescue Plan will be used wisely for individuals and businesses in Wayne.

Marijuana has been legalized in New Jersey, and municipalities now have a little time to decide whether they’ll allow businesses in their communities. Where do you stand on the issue, and why do you think it’s right for your community?

The legalization of marijuana was approved by NJ and Wayne voters in the 2020 election. It is now legal, both medically and recreationally. That is not in question. What IS in consideration is HOW our municipality deals with the sale of it. I understand that there are two views on allowing cannabis sales in Wayne. Generally, some residents may approve of legalization but don't want sales outlets in their neighborhoods. At the very least, though, the township should allow state-controlled medical marijuana sales for those prescribed it. Medicinal marijuana has proven to be a highly beneficial necessity for some patients, including cancer patients, severe pain, and individuals with PTSD. I approve of convenient medical marijuana dispensaries in the township. We already have the means to control the location, number and size of these locations.

What are some other pillars of your campaign platform?

The overarching pillar of my campaign is improving Wayne for all. This involves zoning/planning that provides for adequate business opportunity and revitalization; controlled residential development; proactively seeking appropriate industrial/office/ and retail businesses; insuring safe and adequate infrastructure and township services; effective management of wetlands and flood-prone properties; and efficient energy utilization.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I have had a lengthy and successful career in academia and the pharmaceutical/biotechnology industry. I am especially proud of my experience and success in the effective planning and execution of start-ups of small to large entities. I have been instrumental in founding companies in the biotechnology industry and in the not-for-profit sector. My demonstrated success in building companies, meeting corporative objectives and budgets, and providing timely and quality solutions and deliverables is a great predictor of the value I could bring to helping to manage Wayne's future. I have also been civically involved in animal welfare, environmental projects, the Wayne Environmental Commission, COVID testing and relief efforts, food distribution, community outreach, and my church. I am also the immediate past president of the Wayne Democratic Club.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Look at issues from different perspectives when planning and making decisions. Don’t be afraid to think out of the box!

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I am focused on evaluating needs, performance to objectives, improvement in processes, and balancing spending vs. revenues. I have proven common sense and care deeply about my community.

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