From Promise → To Progress

Cynthia Holland ran on a promise to tackle tough issues and make government work for Verona families. Here’s what she’s delivered—and what she’ll do next.

Infrastructure Improvements

What I Promised:
Fix aging water and utility systems before they fail and before it becomes more expensive.

What We’ve Done:

Developed Verona’s first asset management plan (AMP)
Reopened a closed drinking water well
Secured funding through the State Infrastructure Bank—a first for Verona

What’s Next:

Finish the Fairview Avenue well so that we can reopen it
Implement a long-term maintenance plan; renewing our AMP
Continue using external funding sources to reduce the burden on taxpayers

Flood Resilience

What I Promised:
Protect homes and families from rising flood risks and climate-related impacts.

What We’ve Done:

Partnered with Essex County to manage Verona Lake
Passed stronger stormwater ordinances
Created a joint flood advisory board with Cedar Grove
Brought Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill to see the issue firsthand
Addressed neighborhood flooding issues in Forest and Brookdale sections of town

What’s Next:

Expand flood mitigation projects in high-risk areas
Improve emergency readiness
Address neighborhood flooding and pursue funding for stormwater system upgrades

Inclusive Programming

What I Promised:
Invest in recreation for residents of all ages and abilities.

What We’ve Done:

Co-Led the creation of Verona’s Multicultural Inclusion and Accessibility Advisory Committee
Delivered Verona’s first ADA-inclusive playground, including adult exercise equipment
Advanced the long-overdue Everett Field

What’s Next:

Finish renovating Everett Field
Improve Community Pool infrastructure, ensuring it remains a legacy for families
Expand programming and access for teens, seniors, and families

Cost-Conscious Leadership

What I Promised:
Stop short-term, reactive thinking. Plan ahead. Save taxpayers money.

What We’ve Done:

Established rates through data-driven analysis
Leveraged state and federal infrastructure funding
Focused on permanent solutions, not patchwork fixes

What’s Next:

Advance energy efficiency and other cost saving mechanisms for the Township
Continue driving the administration to make data-driven recommendations
Keep pursuing grants and inter-governmental partnerships
Develop strategic plans to control costs

Holding True to Her Word

In 2021, Cynthia Holland ran on a promise to restore our infrastructure, address flooding risks, and make Verona more resilient and inclusive. Here’s exactly what she said back then. Now you can see what she’s done.