NJBA CEO Jeff Kolakowski Op-Ed Published in The Jersey Vindicator

Originally Published by The Jersey Vindicator
June 24, 2026

NJBA CEO Jeff Kolakowski recently authored an op-ed published by The Jersey Vindicator entitled, “The Myth of Environment Versus Growth.”

The article challenges the notion that New Jersey must choose between environmental protection and economic growth, arguing instead that responsible development, environmental stewardship, housing affordability, and economic opportunity can and should advance together.

As Kolakowski writes, “New Jersey does not have a shortage of environmental protections. It does have a shortage of housing.” The op-ed explains that expanding housing opportunities should be viewed as a complement to, rather than a conflict with, sound environmental policy.

The op-ed also highlights the role redevelopment, infrastructure investment, modern permitting, and thoughtful land use planning play in protecting natural resources while increasing housing production. Rather than viewing environmental protection and housing as competing priorities, the article argues that balanced public policy can advance both objectives and help address New Jersey’s affordability challenges.

The article reflects NJBA’s ongoing advocacy for housing production, housing affordability, redevelopment, permitting modernization, regulatory certainty, and practical public policies that support both environmental stewardship and sustainable economic growth.

NJBA remains committed to working with policymakers, environmental stakeholders, and community leaders to promote solutions that expand housing opportunities, strengthen New Jersey’s economy, and protect the state’s natural resources for future generations.

The full article appears below as originally published by the Jersey Vindicator.

Read the original op-ed: “The Myth of Environment Versus Growth”