By Sunayana Prabhu
RED BANK – Mairin Bennett’s professional journey has been a winding one but as she settles into her new role as the executive director of RiverCenter, the borough’s promotional agency, Bennett is excited to contribute more ideas to enhance the thriving downtown.
Bennett is a lifelong resident of the area who grew up in Little Silver and Oceanport. She takes over the role from Bob Zuckerman, who joined RiverCenter in 2022 and announced his retirement in August.
RiverCenter works with businesses and borough leadership to enhance the town’s business district.
“Red Bank has always been a special place for me, and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to contribute to its continued growth and revitalization,” said Bennett.
A Rutgers University alumna, Bennett worked in public relations before transitioning into roles in municipal government. She ser ved as an assistant com- munications director for three mayors in Jersey City, a public information officer for the New Jersey Lottery, and chief of staff for the Garden State Preservation Trust. Bennett went on to work in economic development, first in Jersey City and later at the New Jersey Department of Transportation. Most recently, she headed the Special Improvement District in Toms River, helping small businesses navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Bennet hopes to utilize theconnections and expertise she developed working with state and local governments in navigating the opportunities and challenges ahead.
“Sometimes you have to say something that some people don’t like, but it’s my job to protect the property owners and to be a voice for our board. And if they want something done, it’s my job to get it done,” Bennett said, noting she can draw on her prior experience in Toms River. “I’m not going to let someone take advantage of a small business owner or property owner or board member. I’m an advocate for individuals, and it’s my job to protect them. So yeah, I’m ready for it.”
RiverCenter is primarily funded through a special tax district assessment on local property owners but also leverages other revenue streams like event fees and external funding to support its initiatives and operations in Red Bank. Borough officials adopted a total budget of $579,970 or the Special Improvement District proposed by RiverCenter in 2024. The budget was based on a list of expenses that included programs and events, marketing and advertising, visitor services, holiday decorations and more.
One of Bennett’s key priorities for 2025 is to strengthen RiverCenter’s relationships with borough administration and elected officials.
“My goal is to listen closely to the needs of our business owners, property owners and residents and then work collaboratively to develop innovative solutions that will benefit the entire community,” she said.
In addition to bolstering critical partnerships, Bennett also intends to bring more state resources and grant funding to Red Bank by tapping into programs and initiatives that have benefited other communities she has worked with, such as the Main Street revitalization effort she spearheaded in Toms River.
“There are so many great state-level initiatives and funding sources that a lot of towns aren’t even aware of,” Bennett said. “My goal is to be a conduit, to help our local businesses and property owners access those opportunities and really take advantage of all the support that’s available.”
On the marketing and events front, Bennett teased the launch of a new Broadwalk initiative, though she remained tight-lipped on the specifics. “I don’t want to come in and just impose my own ideas,” Bennett said. “I really want to listen to the community first, understand their priorities and concerns, and then work together to develop a shared vision for the future.”
One item she did discuss: Bennett plans to build on RiverCenter’s popular Red Bank Valentine’s Sweet Stroll in February.
As she looks ahead to 2025 and beyond, Bennett is excited and optimistic.
“Red Bank has so much potential, and I’m honored to be in a position to help unlock it,” she said. “This is my home, and I’m determined to see it thrive.”
The article originally appeared in the January 2 – 8, 2025 print edition of The Two River Times.
