the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Montvale Nj, Montvale named the best managed community in 2024 by Business View Magazine. Mayor Mike Ghassali announced in a Facebook post “We are honored to be recognized by Business View Magazine and named the best managed community in 2024.Kudos to all our volunteers, staff, boards and commissions, and first responders for making us stand out and be recognized.”
the article is summarized in the following:
Montvale, a vibrant town nestled in Bergen County, New Jersey, offers the best of both worlds—a close-knit community with access to big-city amenities just 45 minutes away. This suburban haven is evolving, embracing new businesses, housing, and infrastructure upgrades, all while preserving its hometown appeal.
A Community Built on Connection and Growth
With a strong sense of community, Montvale maintains a small-town atmosphere despite recent growth. As Mayor Michael Ghassali puts it, Montvale is a place “where everyone knows everyone,” supported by small schools that foster close relationships. The town’s welcoming vibe is enriched by a growing array of new businesses, from restaurants to medical facilities, all enhancing residents’ quality of life.
Supporting Local Business and Attracting New Enterprises
Montvale is a hub for diverse businesses, from restaurants to office-based services. “We are happy to have a steakhouse coming, as well as fast-food spots, BYOBs, and retailers like Williams-Sonoma,” Ghassali says, noting that new ventures are arriving monthly. Montvale’s Economic Development Committee plays a key role, offering support to the borough’s largest employers while working with startups and expanding businesses to ensure they find a home in town.
Zoning for Economic Growth
To streamline business setup, Montvale is revamping zoning laws to accommodate new economic diversity. As Borough Administrator Joe Voytus explains, “We’re working to make it easier for companies like those in manufacturing or recreation to settle in with less red tape.” Alongside this, Montvale is welcoming data centers, banks, and more, ensuring these services meet the needs of the town’s growing population.
Focusing on Housing and Redevelopment
With little vacant land left, Montvale’s housing strategy now centers on repurposing and revitalizing existing spaces. “We’re focused on making better use of what we have,” Voytus shares. Efforts are underway to develop mixed-use spaces, especially downtown, leveraging the convenience of nearby mass transit. Smaller single-family homes are also being upgraded, attracting buyers who value the town’s unique balance of suburban comfort and urban proximity.
Infrastructure Investments and Environmental Initiatives
Montvale is committed to enhancing its infrastructure, collaborating with providers to ensure dependable water and gas services for residents. In addition, greenspaces and recreation facilities are being updated, creating more opportunities for residents of all ages. “We want our parks and fields to be usable year-round, providing accessible spaces for everyone,” explains Voytus.
Engagement, Diversity, and Community Spirit
The community spirit in Montvale shines through events like “A Day in the Park” and cultural celebrations that reflect the town’s diversity—residents come from 57 countries and speak 27 languages. Ghassali keeps engagement high with accessible town halls and even personal visits, saying, “If someone sends me an email with a question, I’ll knock on their door, and soon we’re having coffee together.”
Looking to the Future
Montvale’s vision for the future includes sustainable projects like the DiPiero Farm, recently purchased to provide a pick-your-own strawberry farm and a community garden for residents, along with a greenhouse for local high school botany classes. This taxpayer-funded project is expected to launch next year, enhancing Montvale’s unique charm and community connection.
With its suburban appeal, easy access to NYC, and a thriving community spirit, Montvale is a truly special place to call home.
BUT DOES IT HAVE A JAPANESE KOI POND? https://theridgewoodblog.net/but-does-it-have-a-japanese-koi-pond/
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Huh’ ok I don’t know ware they are coming up with this.