Lacey Weighs Joining New Jersey’s Film-Ready Program

LACEY, NJ— Lacey Township officials discussed whether to join New Jersey’s film-ready program, a state-backed effort that encourages municipalities to market local locations to film and television producers.

During a recent Township Committee meeting, officials said the program would involve uploading photos and descriptions of public locations that could appeal to filmmakers. One example raised during the discussion was Lacey Materials, which officials said had drawn state interest because it could resemble a desert setting for filming. Officials also said private properties could be invited to participate by sharing information for the website.

Business Administrator Veronica Laureigh explained that the program is designed to help municipalities showcase unique locations as producers review possible sites in New Jersey. With Netflix coming to Monmouth County, she said, the state has made a push to show the range of places available for filmmaking. Laureigh said there is generally no direct money to be made by the municipality, though the township could charge an application fee of $250 to $500 and might receive a share of revenue depending on a production.

She also said the broader goal is to draw film crews, actors and support staff into local businesses. That could mean spending at restaurants, stores and other businesses while productions are in town. The township already took part in a one-on-one meeting with the state to review how the program works.

“I’ve been looking into this for a couple of years. I didn’t want to miss the boat if 41 miles away Netflix is there,” said Committeeman Peter Curatolo.“I am excited about the prospect.”

Another committee member voiced support for the concept.

“If we can bring it into town, show off our town or town used and even though the township isn’t making money on it, anything that brings more business into our mom and pop stores or any of our stores is a plus to me,” said Deputy Mayor Bob Laureigh.

Officials said the state manages part of the website related to businesses and helps municipalities with internal steps. They also said a local liaison would be responsible for managing township location listings and possibly helping gather photos and descriptions.

Before the township can consider an ordinance, officials said it must identify a liaison, and that person cannot be an elected official. The committee agreed to table the matter until a future meeting while members consider who could fill the role.