July 13, 2022

Started 12:00 pm|Ended 3:00 pm

Critical Connections for Critical Conversations

Transforming New Jersey’s Water Infrastructure Together

On July 13, Jersey Water Works members gathered at Kean University for the first in-person Membership Meeting since 2019. The 100 attendees collaborated with other water leaders, advocates, and decision makers during this pivotal time of funding opportunities and legislative changes for water infrastructure. 

The agenda featured:

1. Opening remarks from co-chairs Andy Kricun and Nicole Miller
2. Mini-Keynotes centered around collaboration, connections, and the continuous need to work together. Speakers included:
   • David Zimmer, Infrastructure Bank
   • Kareem Adeem, City of Newark
   • Shawn M. LaTourette, NJDEP Commissioner
3. A world café hosted by JWW Steering Committee members and backbone staff to explore today’s toughest water issues.
4. Breakout sessions facilitated by committee leaders:
   • Financing Utility Projects (with Affordability as a Consideration), hosted by Asset Management and Finance Committee
     1. Christine Ballard, CDM Smith
     2. Zach Green, Raftelis
   • Launching Local Green Infrastructure Advocacy, hosted by the Green Infrastructure Committee
     1. Bill Cesanek, CDM Smith
     2. Chris Obropta, Rutgers University Water Resources Program
   • Smart Combined Sewer Overflow Control Plans, hosted by the Combined Sewer Overflow Committee
     1. Kareem Adeem, City of Newark
     2. Richard Loeffler, Xylem
     3. Vin Rubino, Wade Trim
   • Visualizing Climate Resilience in Water Utilities, hosted by Climate Resilience Committee
     1. Russ Dudley, Arcadis
     2. Patricia Lindsay-Harvey, Willingboro Municipal Utility Authority and Willingboro Green Team