NEWARK, N.J., March 20, 2013 – Hundreds of commercial property owners in Newark’s Ironbound participated in community meetings to express their concern over the results of the recent property revaluation in the City, and to share information regarding the appeals process which has been extending by several weeks, with the help of local elected officials, including East Ward Councilman Augusto Amador.

Reports of commercial property values increasing by 100 percent and more have prompted many owners to question the methodology used by Appraisal Systems, Inc. to produce wholesale property value increases that appear implausible during a recession when compared against market conditions.

The Ironbound Business Improvement District (IBID) was the proud sponsor of a local youth soccer team participating in the Indoor Soccer League located at the Ironbound Boys & Girls Club this winter. IBID President Steven T. Yglesias said the sponsorship was another example of the organization’s support and involvement in programs that benefit the Ironbound community. “In addition to the thousands of visitors who come to the Ironbound for our excellent restaurants, shopping and entertainment, the people who live in our community are not only our friends and neighbors, but also our customers,” Yglesias stated. “The business and commercial property owners of the IBID are proud to support the team and the soccer program.”

Nearly a dozen local business and restaurant owners participated in a meeting hosted by the Ironbound BID to help promote the proper permitting and operation of sidewalk cafes in the Ironbound District. The IBID’s professional staff was joined by representatives of the City of Newark’s Special Permit Office and the Alcohol Beverage Control Commission to provide and accept applications, and to offer guidance.

“The IBID strongly supports sidewalk cafes because they add to the welcoming environment for Ironbound residents and the thousands of visitors we host every year,” stated Seth A. Grossman, IBID Executive Director. “The City will be regulating and enforcing sidewalk cafes more forcefully in the weeks ahead, and we thought it was important to serve as a liaison to help people in the Ironbound District understand the rules and apply for permits correctly and successfully so they can operate effectively and contribute to our reputation as New Jersey’s top dining destination.”