ABOUT THE
DOWNTOWN SOMERVILLE ALLIANCE
Proudly Serving Our Community
Volunteer Committees
DESIGN/infrastruture Committee
The Design Committee plays a key role in shaping the physical image of the downtown as a place that is attractive to shoppers, investors, business owners, and visitors, through a variety of place making programs. The committee provides recommendations to the Downtown DSA Board of Trustees with regard to short and long term programs.
Promotions COMMITTEE
The job of the Promotion Committee is to PROMOTE Downtown Somerville as the heart of commerce, culture, and community life for residents and visitors alike. As Somerville continues to change, this committee will think about promotion in a broader sense and develop new strategies.
Economic Vitality Committee
The job of the Economic Vitality Committee is to identify new market opportunities for the downtown district, help existing businesses to thrive and expand and stimulate investment in property. The committee must develop a thorough understanding of the district’s economic condition and its best opportunities, focusing on incremental change that improves the downtowns’ economic foundation, leading to long term investment and growth.
Board of Trustees
Natalia Kleyman
Chair
Kevin Sluka
Secretary
Tania Althoff
Treasurer
Conlyn Chan
Theresa Bonner
Allison Reilly Snyder
Now Accepting Applications: Board of Trustees
The Downtown Somerville Alliance (DSA) – the District Management Corporation for one of New Jersey’s premiere downtowns – is seeking new members to join our Board of Trustees.
Somerville’s designated Special Improvement District has become a destination for its colorful dining scene, thriving retail, and growing arts & culture community.
The DSA is proud to:
Promote balanced and progressive economic development
Create experiences that attract diverse visitors
Oversee beautification and infrastructure projects
Open Seats:
Two Board positions are available. Per Somerville Borough Ordinance #2472-15-0706, candidates must be a business owner or property owner within the special improvement district (SID).
Expectations:
Attend monthly board meetings (2nd Monday at 6:00 p.m.)
Serve on at least one committee
Chair or Co-Chair a Committee
Assist with events and initiatives
Possess strong knowledge of Downtown Somerville
- Bring skills and perspectives that support the district’s continued growth and success
- Promote a positive image of Downtown Somerville
How to Apply:
Submit a letter of intent + resume by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, February 23, 2026 to:
Downtown Somerville Alliance
Attn: Dana Kessel, Executive Director
50 Division Street, Suite 501
Somerville, NJ 08876
Other Opportunities:
Not ready for a board seat but want to get involved? Join one of our committees (Events & Promotions, Infrastructure/Design, or Economic Vitality). Send a letter of intent and resume to dana@downtownsomerville.org.
Selection Process:
Resumes will be screened by the Downtown Somerville Alliance Nomination Committee, who reserve the right to request that candidates present themselves for an interview. Should an interview be needed, it will be scheduled at an accessible location or via GoToMeeting/Zoom. Candidates will be notified accordingly.
Learn More:
For more information on the Downtown Somerville Alliance, visit DowntownSomerville.com or connect with us on social media:
Facebook: @DowntownSomervilleAlliance
Instagram: @DowntownSomerville
Be part of shaping the future of Downtown Somerville!
Your Downtown Office Team
Dana Kessel
Leah Horowitz
Becky Pollard
RFP Release Date – Friday, February 6, 2026
Pre-Submission Q&A Period – February 6 – February 26, 2026
Questions due by February 26, 2026 at 4:00 PM.
All questions and official responses posted publicly by March 1, 2026.
Submission Deadline – Tuesday, March 10, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Committee Review Period – March 11 – March 31, 2026
Committee Recommendation Presented at April Board of Trustees Meeting
Board Decision / Award Announcement – Within 48 hours after April Board meeting.
Contract Finalization & Onboarding – April 20 – May 15, 2026
Service Start Date – June 1, 2026
Catch Up on Past Meetings
Minutes, Agenda, and additional Information
BOARD AGENDA – Monday, February 9, 2026
Meeting time: 6:00 LOCATION: OFFICE EVOLUTION CONFERENCE ROOM (The agenda is subject to can be
January 12, 2026 Meeting Minutes
Secretary Kevin Sluka called the meeting to order at 6:15 pm on January 12, 2026.