Get to Know Us
Learn about our history, our team, and the partners behind our mission.
History & Inspiration
In August 1955, back-to-back hurricanes—Connie and Diane—brought devastating floods to the Northeastern United States. Monroe County was hit especially hard, with the Brodhead Creek Watershed suffering catastrophic damage. The flooding caused the loss of 74 lives, displaced hundreds of families, and resulted in millions of dollars in property damage. In response to this unprecedented disaster, the Monroe County Board of Commissioners—John R. Lesoine, Stanley Rader, and Willard Quick—recognized the urgent need for long-term recovery and planning. They established a Redevelopment Authority to lead those efforts.
The Redevelopment Authority of the County of Monroe was officially incorporated by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania on May 24, 1955. Its first meeting was held on December 9, 1955, where Rev. Roger C. Stimpson was elected Chairman, Dale H. Learn as Vice-Chairman, and Attorney Elmer D. Christine as Secretary. The Authority quickly set to work on the county’s first major initiative: the Lincoln Avenue Renewal Area in East Stroudsburg. This urban renewal project transformed a flood-ravaged neighborhood into a viable area for commercial and industrial development.
Over the next 25 years, the Redevelopment Authority led several key projects, including the Cortland Street Urban Renewal Area in East Stroudsburg, the Stofflet Street Urban Renewal Area in Stroudsburg Borough, the Cortland Plaza Renewal Area, and the North Kistler Street Area Program. These efforts focused on eliminating blight, adding new housing units, and strengthening infrastructure across the region.
Today, the Redevelopment Authority of Monroe County remains committed to fostering sustainable growth through strategic planning, revitalization efforts, and community-focused development. We continue to evolve to meet the changing needs of our residents and businesses, while building on a legacy of resilience and renewal.
CORE VALUES
Community Care
We are committed to promoting affordable housing, sustainable community development, and comprehensive housing rehabilitation through health, safety, and energy-efficient repairs for Monroe County residents.
Community Growth
We are dedicated to identifying community needs and implementing innovative solutions that improve quality of life for Monroe County residents through proactive planning and thoughtful problem-solving.
Cooperative Support
We are committed to building strong, lasting relationships by working with staff, local leaders, and community partners to support growth, encourage engagement, and promote shared success across Monroe County.
Consistent Integrity
We are focused on using our time and resources with transparency, efficiency, and care, ensuring every action reflects honesty, integrity, and a strong commitment to accountability in serving our community.
Compassion & Kindness
We strive to foster a culture grounded in kindness and compassion by providing empathetic service that encourages connection, builds understanding, and supports emotional well-being.
Cultivating Wellness
We are devoted to nurturing wellness in mind, body, and spirit by fostering self-awareness, cultivating healthy habits, and encouraging growth to better serve our community with care, energy, and purpose.
meet our team
Dedicated professionals working together to build a brighter future for Monroe County
REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY BOARD
Providing strategic guidance to drive positive change in Monroe County.
Nicole Murray
Chairman
Robert Buff
1st Vice Chair
Vacant
2nd Vice Chair
patrick ross
Treasurer
Vacant
Secretary
Todd W. Weitzmann
Solicitor
Monroe County Affordable Housing Board (ACT 137)
Ensuring support for affordable housing and impactful community programs.
deborah l. huffman
Chair
Jennifer Shukaitis
Vice Chair
MICHAEL KATZ
Member
WILLIAM CULLEN
Member
THOMAS R. WILKINS
Member
Todd Weitzmann
Member
Netoya Nevarez
Member
WAYNE W. VANDERHOOF
Member
THOMAS MCKEOWN
Member
LINDA KAUFMAN
Member, Ex-Officio
Jennifer Strauch
Member, Ex-Officio
Vacant
our valued partners
Collaborating with trusted organizations to strengthen and uplift Monroe County communities.
Monroe County Commissioners
Monroe County is governed by Chairman John D. Christy, Vice Chairman David C. Parker, and Commissioner Sharon S. Laverdure. As the county’s chief governing body, the Commissioners manage administrative duties such as elections, veterans’ services, property assessments, and fiscal oversight. They are also responsible for approving contracts, maintaining county property, and serving on various county boards, including the salary and retirement boards. Elected to four-year terms, the Commissioners are dedicated to supporting and managing the growth and services of Monroe County.
Monroe County Planning Commission
The Monroe County Planning Commission works to sustain and improve the quality of life for all residents. By focusing on the county's environmental, economic, and cultural assets, the Commission ensures that these resources remain accessible to everyone. Through collaboration and strategic planning, they aim to enhance the county’s development and growth for the future.
The Monroe County Housing Authority is dedicated to providing affordable housing for low-income families and the elderly. Their mission is to empower residents toward economic self-sufficiency and advocate for homeownership opportunities. Committed to creating safe and suitable living environments, the Housing Authority collaborates with community agencies to meet the needs of current and future residents.
The Pocono Mountains Economic Development Corporation focuses on four key goals: retaining existing businesses, creating jobs for Monroe County residents, expanding the county's tax base, and attracting new investment. Through these efforts, they work to drive economic growth and strengthen the local community.
