Kristy Romanowski has strong ties to Washington Borough. A longtime resident, mom of three children in the school system, a graduate of Warren Hills Regional High School, and active in many community activities, Romanowski is now bringing her local perspectives and ideas as the new Executive Director of the Washington Business Improvement District. 

Joining Romanowski in the WBID’s day to day operations is Jessica Bartelloni, the organization’s new Events Coordinator. Like Romanowski, Bartelloni also has strong ties to the Washington community, having worked with non-profits, working closely with the school system and as a member of the Washington Rotary. 

“We are very excited to have both Kristy and Jessica leading us,” said Nicole Kries, President of the WBID’s Board of Directors. “They both bring fresh, new ideas to the table. It’s also a benefit that both of them are so closely involved in the community at-large, particularly when it comes to families and children. In addition to some of our traditionally successful events, such as the Festival in the Borough, Hometown Halloween and Gnometown Holiday, they’re going to be bringing a lot of new ideas into the mix for our businesses – and residents – as we revitalize ‘Little Washington.'”

Romanowski, who has a Bachelor’s degree from William Paterson University and a Masters from Centenary, brings a strategic, community-driven vision to that revitalization. She is currently completing her PhD in Transpersonal Psychology at Sofia University, where her research explores the connection between public art, mental health, and community transformation. This academic and clinical foundation gives her a distinctive view of downtown development, one that values human connection, civic pride, and the emotional fabric of a community as much as its physical landscape.

“Washington has so much to offer on many levels,” said Romanowski. “We want to help our businesses thrive and one way of doing that is to include the community as much as we can. Many of our future events will focus on that strategy. I am thankful that the board has put its confidence in me as we come up with common goals that are beneficial to our community as a whole.”

She continued, “I am committed to strengthening our businesses, elevating community identity, expanding arts and cultural initiatives, and fostering collaborative partnerships that move Washington forward. I believe in transparency, communication, and a genuine belief that small towns can achieve remarkable things through vision, clear goals, and teamwork.”

Known for her upbeat energy, creative vision, and community-centered spirit, Bartelloni brings her own brand of enthusiasm and heart and soul to every project she takes on. 

“I am passionate about building events that bring people together, spotlight local businesses, and create meaningful experiences that strengthen community pride,” she said. “I look forward to using that positive energy to build events that bring people together, highlight local businesses, and create meaningful experiences for everyone who calls Washington Borough home.”

Beyond her community engagement work, Bartelloni has an extensive background in emergency medical services, serving as a community EMT with Washington Emergency Services and previously holding leadership and field training roles across multiple EMS agencies in Warren and Hunterdon Counties. This combination of public service, youth leadership, event coordination, and emergency response is a reflection of her deep commitment to helping communities thrive. Additionally Bartelloni recently completed her Master of Public Administration with a concentration in Organizational Management and also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and an Associate’s degree in Child and Family Studies. She also serves as the Municipal Alliance Coordinator for Washington Township and Oxford Township, collaborating with local leaders, schools, law enforcement, and stakeholders to promote healthy decision-making and community wellness. As the Youth Services Chair for the Washington Rotary, she helps lead youth service projects, scholarship initiatives, and community fundraisers that support local students and families.