A Conversation with Elsie Sterling Howard

Elsie Sterling Howard is no stranger to Holmdel. In fact, she has family who lives in town, which may have helped draw her attention to Holmdel's most notable real estate listing: the 472-acre tract of land known locally as “the Lucent property.”

“I can't tell you who it is," she said, chuckling, "so they won't be bombarded -- but they live in -- and love -- Holmdel."

Last week, Elsie Sterling Oversight LLC signed a purchase agreement for an undisclosed amount with French-owned Alcatel-Lucent, Inc. for a mixed-use plan at its property on Crawfords Corner Road in Holmdel. Mayor Patrick Impreveduto made the announcement to 200 residents gathered at the February 23 Township Committee meeting.

Sterling Howard currently resides in Miami, FL, but has roots on the east coast. Although she projects a polished image, she has a refreshing down to earth style, which made for relaxed conversation.

“I'm a Philadelphian by birth,” she said in a telephone interview, “so I spent a good portion of my youth going in and out of New Jersey, and I'm familiar with New Jersey, and familiar with re-purposing properties in communities.” The Alcatel-Lucent property would be her first in New Jersey, she said.

And while she couldn't be pinned down about the plans she has for the 2 million sq. ft. Eero Saarinen building still locally referred to as "Bell Labs," she did convey a respect for its architectural and historic significance.

“Oh, I think the building is iconic,” she said. “Eero Saarinen was one of the masters of modern architecture and it's an amazing building.”

Sterling Howard said she and her partners were still processing information as part of their due diligence. “It's a lot to take in. I can tell you that we all respect the iconic status of the incredible building,” she said, “But we're too early in the process to know what we're going to use and what we aren't going to use.”

“Our vision for the Holmdel community includes many different community-based opportunities,” she continued. “Whether they're parks, whether they're schools, whatever they are, they'll be part of the master plan, and we'll work to set the right tone for your community."

Sterling Howard has extensive experience in community relations and large-scale projects.

"I spent a good portion of my life enhancing communities, it's what I do on a daily basis,” she said.

Sterling Howard had done her homework. She's read the April 2008 Bell Labs Charrette report by 36 participants who brainstormed preservation potential, and looks forward to reading the 2007 Lucent Citizen's Advisory Committee report, prepared by a dozen citizens appointed by the township's governing body to consider options for the property.

“Our vision is the highest and best use for the property that will enhance the community of Holmdel and will bring business opportunities for all of us,” she said. “We see it as a great space in a great community.”

And what would Sterling Howard like her new neighbors to know about her?

“I would like people to know that I'm committed to excellence," she said. "I believe in a meritocracy, and I believe in transparency. I think you have to put your heart and soul into everything you do.  You have to work from information, and work with integrity and honesty."

She added, “We believe that Holmdel deserves the best outcome."