For years, the Broad Street West Redevelopment Project loomed as the most controversial initiative in Summit’s history. Sold as a “once-in-a-generation” opportunity, the reality was far different: a five-story, 140+ unit high-density development perched atop the YMCA and our beloved Summit Library.
Residents from every corner of town, and across the political spectrum, saw the truth. This wasn’t smart growth. It was overreach. It was arrogance. And it would have forever destroyed the small-town character that Summit families cherish.
At the center of the debacle stood the Summit Municipal Democratic Committee. They ignored residents’ voices, dismissed years of public opposition, and insisted their oversized, developer-driven project was the only way forward. The SMDC created this mess, defended it, and clung to it even as it unraveled before their eyes. And let’s not forget: the last two Council Presidents, former Councilman and now SMDC Chairman, Greg Vartan, along with former Councilwoman Marjorie Fox, are still prominent figures shaping the agenda. They’re not just behind the scenes; they’re leading the Democratic council candidates this year. That should give every Summit resident pause for concern.
But Summit pushed back. Neighbors organized, spoke out, and stood together in solidarity. These were the very same residents who rallied behind Delia Hamlet in 2022 and who propelled the Together for Summit team to victory in 2023, delivering Mayor Elizabeth Fagan and Councilmen Kevin Smallwood, Jamel Boyer, and Bob Pawlowski to office.
Together for Summit has flipped the script. Instead of silencing residents, they’ve partnered with them. Instead of reckless mega-projects, they’ve advanced thoughtful, responsible development that meets our affordable housing obligations without sacrificing Summit’s character.
The contrast is crystal clear. The Summit Municipal Democratic Committee’s Broad Street West plan: a five-story, 140+ unit monstrosity that would have overwhelmed our community. Together for Summit’s approach: careful planning, transparency, and growth that actually strengthen Summit.
Summit deserves leaders who listen, who plan responsibly, and who put residents first. With Together for Summit, that’s precisely what we have, and it’s why our community is finally moving forward the right way.