…so says an article by the Associated Press regarding the recent political scandal.
The story says:
“The criminal complaints paint a picture of building and zoning departments where influence, connections and payoffs determine who gets a prompt hearing and a smooth approval process on their applications and who is left at the mercy of a process so seemingly dysfunctional that developers sometimes budget for bribes.
“Jersey City, where more than a dozen of those arrested in the corruption probe either lived, worked or had connections, has been at the epicenter of a development boom that has transformed former polluted industrial rail yards and warehouses into gleaming waterfront high-rises with unparalleled views of the Manhattan skyline.
“Certain developers have made fortunes off the city and received tax abatements that continue today, even though there’s little open space left along the waterfront…”
Check out the rest HERE.