Forked river man awarded governor’s team of excellence honor for affordable housing work

Forked River man awarded Governor’s Team of Excellence honor for affordable housing work

TRENTON, N.J. — Gavin Rozzi of Forked River was honored with the Governor’s Team of Excellence Award during New Jersey’s State Employee Recognition Day ceremony held Wednesday, May 7, at the Trenton War Memorial.

Rozzi, a member of the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (NJDCA), was recognized for his role on the A4/S50 team, which led the release of affordable housing data under the landmark A4 legislation. The award celebrates state employees who demonstrate a strong commitment to public service and help the Governor achieve his goal of making New Jersey a fairer and stronger place to live and work.

Hosted by the New Jersey Civil Service Commission and the NJDCA, the annual ceremony recognized state employees across five award categories, including Innovation and Efficiency, Leadership/Professional Achievement, Heroism, Community Service, and the Governor’s Team of Excellence Award.

Rozzi’s team developed calculations to guide municipalities in planning future affordable housing development. While the figures are nonbinding, they have been widely adopted by towns across the state and are used to support housing efforts for residents across income levels.

“This team continues to provide support to municipalities with data resources and enhancements and tailored guidance for towns throughout the state,” the NJDCA said in a statement.

State leaders praise public service commitment

The A4/S50 initiative plays a key role in informing housing policy across New Jersey, and Rozzi’s efforts were highlighted for their contribution to advancing the administration’s housing goals. NJDCA Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez said the award recipients represent the “very best” of public service.

“I’m incredibly proud of our DCA employees who were honored with a Governor’s Award during State Employee Recognition Week,” Suárez said. “Their dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to public service exemplify the very best of our department and the State of New Jersey.”

Civil Service Commission Chair Allison Chris Myers echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the broader impact of state workers on residents. “Each of our honorees has made a significant impact in their respective fields and on the lives of New Jersey residents,” she said.

Rozzi joins a select group of public servants recognized this year for advancing the values of integrity, service, and excellence through their work in state government.

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