David Belasco An Independent Voice for South Orange

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Qualifications Click on the links below for more information: General Qualifications Education Professional Experience Volunteer Experience General Qualifications As a long term resident, I can add perspective to the challenges facing South Orange. Some are new, but many have reoccurred periodically over the past three decades. I have worked extensively in settings where it has been necessary to collaborate with people of diverse backgrounds, and to negotiate and compromise effectively. While a corporate employee, I received management training, worked as a manager, and planned and executed projects. Redevelopment is complex. As an attorney, I have learned to read a balance sheet, analyze contracts and evaluate deals. The South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) will be coming on line over the next four years. I have formed non-profit organizations, and I have served on the boards of two non-profits. My art training has made me sensitive to the overall appearance of our public spaces and commercial areas. The design of new projects and their relation to their surroundings affects our quality of life, and in the long run, housing values and our economic vitality. back to top Education Princeton University, B.A. in Mathematics University of Pennsylvania Law School, L.L.B. New York University Law School, L.L.M. in Taxation Newark School of Fine and Industrial Arts, Certificate in Illustration. back to top Professional Experience Estate planning specialist and department manager with Mutual Benefit Life Insurance Company. Attorney in private practice specializing in taxation, corporate law, employee benefits, wills, trusts and probate. back to top Volunteer Experience American Bar Association Gift and Estate Tax Committee. League of Women Voters of Maplewood and South Orange. South Orange-Maplewood Board of Education Citizens' Review Committee (studied renovations and improvements to Board of Education physical facilities). Village of South Orange Dugout Design Advisory Committee. Board member of Zoological Society of New Jersey, Inc. (advisory board to Turtle Back Zoo). Board member of Friends of Newark School of Fine and Industrial Arts. back to top