a) Ranking Applications. Consistent with Section 10-4 of the Act regarding

1. 1) with high levels of environmentally challenged areas;

2. 2) that have evidenced the widest support from the municipality;

   1. 3) for which a specific plan has been submitted to effect economic growth and expansion;
   2. 4) for which there is evidence of prior consultation between the municipality and business, labor, and neighborhood organizations within the proposed zone;
   3. 5) for which a specific plan has been submitted that will or may be expected to benefit zone residents and workers by increasing their ownership opportunities and participation in River Edge Redevelopment Zone developments.
   4. b) The Department's determination of whether to certify a River Edge Redevelopment Zone shall be based on the purposes of the Act, the criteria set forth in Section 10-4 of the Act and subsection (a) of this Section.

approval and certification of a River Edge Redevelopment Zone, the Department shall give preference to those areas: