In a thought-provoking editorial, longtime Jersey City resident Robert Choi questions how city leaders talk about “inequality.” He argues that what gets labeled as economic or social disparity often comes from man-made barriers—especially government regulations—rather than just natural differences between people.
Choi critiques current policy approaches and tools like the Gini Index. He says they miss the messy reality of human ambition, choice, and risk-taking, and instead push for a version of perfect equality that doesn’t really exist.
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Rethinking the Conversation on Inequality
Choi’s main point? Inequality doesn’t always mean something’s broken. Variation in housing prices, career outcomes, or neighborhood growth often comes from different personal decisions and goals.
Instead of chasing total sameness, he thinks cities should focus on practical reforms to remove unnecessary roadblocks.
Government Regulation as a Driver of Disparity
Choi says many of Jersey City’s biggest inequities actually come from city policies. He points to restrictive zoning laws and slow development approvals, which delay projects and limit new housing.
These rules shrink the housing supply and push rents higher, making things tougher for residents at all income levels.
The property tax system, he argues, only makes things worse. Taxes on small lots and older neighborhoods can be much higher than those on newer developments.
This uneven burden deepens divides between communities.
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The Gini Index and the Myth of Perfect Equality
Choi also takes aim at the Gini Index, a popular tool for measuring income inequality. He thinks it’s built on an unrealistic idea—that equality is both possible and natural.
But history doesn’t back that up. Differences in ambition, risk tolerance, skills, and choices are just part of being human.
Policy Implications and Solutions
Instead of forcing every outcome to fit a narrow idea of “fairness,” Choi wants reforms that give people a real shot at success—without expecting identical results. He suggests a few things:
- Make zoning and permit approvals simpler to help new housing get built
- Rethink property tax structures so rates are actually fair
- Offer incentives for innovation and investment in all kinds of neighborhoods
- Focus on removing artificial scarcity, not chasing some impossible equality target
What This Means for Jersey City’s Future
The incoming mayor and city council could take a lot from Choi’s argument. If they focus on removing man-made scarcity instead of chasing perfect equality, Jersey City might see healthier housing growth and a stronger local economy.
It could also help build closer ties across the city’s diverse districts. That’s not a small thing.
Impacts Beyond Policy
More housing at different price points doesn’t just help people who already live here. It can completely change how visitors experience the city.
With a broader range of options—including boutique inns and modern chains—the landscape of Jersey City hotels could really open up.
Connecting Policy to Everyday Life
If you’re wondering where to stay in Jersey City, more development could mean better prices and more choices. That has a ripple effect for tourism, local restaurants, and cultural events, adding to the list of things to do in Jersey City.
Making things easier for small businesses to invest and grow can benefit both residents and visitors. It’s about giving everyone a shot.
Access and Mobility
Better policy shapes access, too. With a stronger economy and more balanced development, getting to Jersey City could look a lot more appealing for commuters, travelers, and investors.
Who wouldn’t want a dynamic urban environment without outdated red tape?
The Bigger Picture
Choi’s editorial brings a fresh perspective to what inequality really means. He challenges us to rethink how we measure and address it.
Cities like Jersey City, he argues, should focus on policies that remove artificial scarcity. They need to open up opportunities in every neighborhood, not just a select few.
That way, the city keeps its appeal for residents. It also stays a top spot for visitors who want that mix of history, culture, and a modern vibe.
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Here is the source article for this story: Op-Ed: What ‘inequality’ means in Jersey City and what the next mayor must change
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