Will Focus On Lowering Property Taxes and Relief for Camden City
TRENTON – Senator Dana L. Redd today took the oath of office to represent New Jersey’s 5th Legislative District. The Senator pledged to focus on lowering property taxes as well as increasing the amount of State funding dedicated for Camden and surrounding areas.
“It is truly an honor to be able to serve the residents of the 5th District, and the people of New Jersey as a whole,” said Senator Redd, D-Camden and Gloucester. “My priority now is to get down to the business of fighting for the needs of the people who entrusted me with the task of representing them here in Trenton.”
Senator Redd comes to the Senate after serving seven years on the Camden City Council. During her time on the City Council, Ms. Redd served its Vice-President, as well as Chair of the Finance Committee.
“During my campaign I vowed that, if elected, I would work to help fight for property tax relief for residents. New Jersey’s property taxes are some of the highest in the nation, and this puts a strain on taxpayers’ pockets. My goal is to work with my colleagues, and with the Administration to develop a plan that helps to fairly fund education for all students, regardless of location or income level, while at the same time, relieving some of the burden on taxpayers,” said Senator Redd.
In 2002, Senator Redd worked closely with community advocates in Camden’s Centerville neighborhood, to help secure roughly $142 million for the City through the HOPE VI grant program, which provides federal funds for public housing and community renovations. The project is currently underway, and is expected to be completed in 2009.
“As a lifelong resident of Camden, I have a special place in my heart for this area – it helped to make me the woman I am today. I am reminded of a statement my parents made years ago about how I should remain in Camden because it is going to experience a renaissance. I whole-heartedly believe that statement, which is why I am so dedicated to fighting for the needs of my constituents. I believe that empowerment of our families and communities lies in maintaining strong partnerships with local and State Government. Together we can work to improve the quality of life for residents in District 5 and throughout the State of New Jersey,” Senator Redd said.
A graduate of Bishop Eustace Preparatory High School, Senator Redd holds a B.S. in Business Studies with a minor in Accounting from Rutgers Camden.
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