With multiple new businesses coming to Mullica Hill, committee gets organized
The Harrison Township Economic Development Council met on Feb. 12 to get the new year rolling. The January meeting was cancelled due to inclement weather.
The meeting began with the introduction of new committee member Jennifer Middleton, a Harrison Township resident who works in business development and started her own life coaching business.
Three members were sworn-in to their positions, including Michele Vallone, re-nominated as chairwoman; Steven Houpt, nominated as vice chair to replace Stephanie Lessman who chose not to run for the position but will remain on the committee; and Lisa Nole as secretary.
After a bit of housekeeping, the committee centered much of the discussion on future business. Harrison Township has seen growth in new businesses in recent months, as it will be welcoming a new hospital, a health and wellness center, a liquor store and more.
One of the main goals is to increase the number of local businesses in Mullica Hill. Ways in which the committee helps support businesses include ribbon-cutting ceremonies for new additions and helping promote events for all businesses. The idea is ample support shows potential businesses Mullica Hill is, in a sense, the place to be.
While the committee is excited about planning for the future, there was also a call for focus and grounding. The committee discussed the importance of setting long-term goals and understanding its visions of an even more prosperous community will take time.
“Progress can move at glacial speeds,” Committeeman Tommie Sanders said.
In a separate interview, Committeewoman Denise Racano echoed this sentiment and explained that for Harrison Township to grow in business diversity, the committee and community cannot expect it happen overnight.
Racano also expressed her interest in the restaurant and bar sector.
While giving a nod to current and successful establishments, Racano said, “I would like to see more diverse restaurants … We need something different. Ideally, you want to bring diverse restaurants so people have a choice.”
Recently, a group of Mullica Hill residents expressed interest in opening a small, craft brewery in town; however, due in part to issues regarding land, the idea has yet to take hold.
Neighboring Pitman has seen success in terms of business with breweries such as Human Village Brewing Co. and Kelly Green Brewing Co.
Racano mentioned there is a lot to be said about having more places in a community for people to gather and socialize.
After noting the growing number of businesses on the Business Association’s list, the committee referenced the success of recent events such as the Chocolate Walk, which took place on Feb. 10. Marketed as a Valentine’s Day event, it allowed people to walk along historic Main Street of Mullica Hill and try sweet treats from local merchants.
Even with less-than-ideal weather conditions, “it had foot traffic going through,” Rocano said. “They will definitely go about it next year.”
Before the next meeting, members will decide which specific projects each member will facilitate.
For more information about the Economic Development Committee and the business guide, visit www.harrisontwp.us.
