To Mr. Velázquez, Cumberland County, NJ, is a wonderful place to live and holds unlimited opportunities to grow and prosper for individuals, families and businesses of all shapes and sizes. Under his leadership, the Cumberland County Improvement Authority (CCIA) has become a vital part of the community and is uniquely qualified to serve municipalities and area businesses. As its President/CEO, Mr. Velázquez leads the CCIA's development and redevelopment initiatives, as well as some aspects of its landfill operations. He also handles day-to-day operations including finances, personnel and all ongoing projects. Mr. Velázquez champions Cumberland County's overall overall economic development strategy and is currently coordinating more than $100 million in project construction annually.Mr. Velázquez's experience in community redevelopment -- turning marginal neighborhoods into viable and sustainable new communities -- is unparalleled. In his former position with Triad Associates, Mr. Velazquez led its relocation and acquisition initiatives. As a result of his efforts, more than 750 businesses and residents were successfully relocated to the 75 individual properties the company acquired. All 75 acquisitions were completed without the use of eminent domain. Mr. Velázquez also served as Executive Director of the highly successful Federal Empowerment Zone in Cumberland County.His comprehensive knowledge of community revitalization and redevelopment includes: public/private financing structures; mezzanine financing; community engagement; stakeholder management; financial analysis; project design, coordination and implementation; and identifying and securing funding. Public/private finance, credit enhancements, bonding, tax credits, and non-traditional financing mechanisms round out Mr. Velázquez's $2 billion worth of expertise.