The Observer Candidate Profiles — 2022 General Election

Compiled by Kevin A. Canessa Jr.

races are tak

place in 2022

Harrison

North Arlington

Kearny

candidates Thursday on our

at

those running for council. The Observer invited candi dates with contested elections

considerations, especially.)

We feature candidates who responded to the opportunity to do so. If you do not see a candidate you expected to see, it’s because said candidate did not submit responses.

order. North Arlington does not have wards, so candidates will be listed in alphabetic order.

We begin, therefore, in Kearny and end with North Arlington. (* indicates incum bent).

Observer

respond. (Harrison has four council races, all uncontested, so we did not extend invites to those candidates — for

We present responses in alphabetic order by town name and under each town, by the candidates’ ward in numeric

n KEARNY George Zapata, First Ward What drove you to run for council?

As someone who adamantly believes our public institutions are at their most effective when you have an active populace, I have always strived to be involved in our community. Serving on the school board, I witnessed first-hand the importance of participation in shaping policy that impacts our community at the local level. I look forward to working alongside the mayor and Council to continue guiding Kearny forward toward a brighter tomorrow.

What local organizations do you belong to?

Additionally, describe your volunteer activities in the town for which you seek office.

I am currently serving my second term on the Kearny Board of Education, the past two (years) as Vice President. Throughout my tenure I presided on various committees, ranging from labor relations to curriculum and instruction. My focus is working alongside our administration to ensure that the quality level of education that I was provided during my time in the Kearny School District is not only still intact but constantly improving. I firmly believe that education is the cornerstone to any great society and Kearny is no exception.

I also serve on the Kearny Municipal Utilities Authority as a commissioner. Our focus as commissioners, as with any board, is working alongside the administration to provide the highest level of services to South Kearny. My main takeaway from my years of service to Kearny is understanding the roles and responsibilities of being on any board, particularly the distinction between policy making and carrying out those

policies.

What are two immediate goals you plan to attempt to accomplish on the council if you are elected? Please be specific for both.

One of the hot button issues facing our beloved town is parking. I know firsthand in our neighborhood there is no parking after 6:30 p.m., and little to no parking on the Avenue after 8 p.m. Having attended and participated in the town-wide discussions on parking with our consultant, I firmly believe there will not be a one size fits all solution for the parking issue. We will need all hands-on deck to customize and tailor any ordinances so that we, as a governing body, can positively improve the parking in town.

Another hot button issue is the growing traffic on Passaic Avenue. I know firsthand that regardless of time of day, we all have been dealing with an increased bumper to bumper traffic on Passaic Avenue as you enter East Newark. The town has already begun to address this by conducting a traffic study and looking to add another lane near that entrance but once elected, I plan to actively engage with both my fellow councilmembers and our town engineer as this will be an ongoing issue in the near future.

Are you content with your “downtown” shopping district? What would you do to improve it?

The revitalization of Passaic Avenue has led to an explosion of economic redevelopment and a resurgence of businesses that our residents would like to

ZAPATA

see in town. That said, the next focus is going to be on keeping the

traffic at a level that does not hinder our residents.

The Santos team has already begun to address this by having a

study and looking at adding a different lane on Passaic Ave toward East Newark which I believe will help alleviate the traffic. I look forward to working with them on further improving Passaic Avenue.

The effects of the new developments are noticeable on Kearny Avenue as we are seeing more local businesses setting up shop in town and adding to what makes our town unique. From The Crepe Escape to Q’tal to a new Dona Maria, the Avenue is reflective of Kearny: a welcoming and inclusive community for all. What are your favorite places in town to frequent? Why? My go-to if I’m in a shopping mood is spending

some time at Marshalls or the Heaven Cent Thrift Shop at First Presbyterian. If you’re looking for a well-seasoned Peruvian chicken look no further than Rocky’s on the Ave. Lately I have been recommending Torshi’s on Passaic Avenue, a must visit for Mediterranean dishes.

That said, Kearny Avenue has continuously served as a barometer of our town’s culture and heritage. Regardless of your culinary appetites, you can find a bounty of dishes that reflect our own upbringings and background. From European and Latin American staple dishes to bubble tea and tres leches, the Ave offers a vast array of options for all our residents.

Make one final statement like you would in a debate that could serve as a plea to the voters to choose you.

Regardless of political affiliation, local governance is centered around providing essential services for our

town to run efficiently. I ask you, as the electorate, to press the candidates on their understanding of this concept above all else. As early as I was eligible to vote I have served this electorate with one goal: bettering our community. As you have entrusted me in prior elections with this responsibility, I ask your support as I look to further improve the First Ward.

Peter Santana, Second Ward * I’ve worked with the Kearny Police Department to improve our technology to fight crime in our town. In addition to a fully staffed table of organization, we have expanded the number of

cameras installed around town to better support our police in solving crimes. These cameras have been instrumental in investigations detectives have solved.

We also purchased two new drones that will help the Kearny Police Department to solve crimes much quicker, find suspects who otherwise might get away and help officers to get into locations that would be impossible to survey without a drone.

n

We have many accomplishments to be proud of being able to keep our tables of organization fully staffed while decreasing the

municipal portion of our property taxes is certainly one of them. However, fighting the NJSEA should to shoulder with Mayor Santos, my colleagues on the Town Council and our residents to shut down the Keegan Landfill was unforgettable.

n

For me, frustration may be more the word, not being able to move quicker on the sewer pump station that will serve the residents of Sanford Avenue due to the many bureaucracies and permitting requirements that a project of that size and nature entails. This is despite our desire to get this done as

Continued on the next page

soon as possible for this area. Notwithstanding that, I will continue to work hard with my Second Ward council colleague Rich Konopka to push to get this project done.

n

Since 2017, I’ve had the honor to serve this great town and our residents of the Second Ward.

I’m proud to be the chairman of the Police Committee, where together

with Councilmen Konopka and Jerry Ficeto, along with our Police Chief and Deputy Chief, we’ve shared ideas and put in place procedures to enhance public safety in our town. It’s very much a collective effort. I’m also a member of the Water and Lighting Committees n

We have been working with the KUEZ to support our businesses and find innovative ways to attract patrons. There is always room

Happy Anniversary John & Joan

John and Joan Kirby, formerly of Kearny, are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary. Married on November 3, 1962 in St. Aloysius Church, Newark. John is a retired Kearny fireman. They are parents to four and grandparents to seven.

for improvement, and we will keep looking for grants and new ways to strengthen our business district.

n Having a 3-year old son makes this question easy to answer. I love going to parks and restaurants with my son and wife. More specifically, we tend to be at the Gunnell Oval either playing soccer on the little field, or in the playground. That facility has so much to offer to all ages. We definitely take advantage of it and by the time my little one is ready to go home, I’m exhausted myself. If any resident hasn’t yet been to the renovated facility, I encourage you to stop by and enjoy it.

n

There are so many things we have done for the Second Ward residents in my tenure, and I am so honored to have been chosen by you to serve for the last four years. So I’m once again asking for your vote to continue to serve as we still have so much to do and finish the projects we have started. Kearny is a great town to live and we are working to keep it that way! I hope that I have earned your vote Nov. 8. Thank you.

Eileen Eckel, Third Ward *

complishment than one that can be shared and celebrated by us all.

n

I do not consider it a regret, however, the misinterpreta tion of what the term PILOT actually means is one that I wish we could have made more clear to our residents. There are still so many who think that it means that rede velopers do not pay taxes. That is not true. They pay no taxes to the county or to the school system, but their tax dollars all go to the Town of Kearny. We in turn are appropriating a portion to the Kearny Public Schools and as a result we have not only been able to reduce the municipal portion of the tax bill but build our surplus and increase our credit rating. This has made Kearny more desirable to investors and attracted new businesses into town.

n

I was elected in 2004 . I currently chairwoman the Fire Committee and am the liaison to the Kearny Public Library and a member of the Recreation Committee.

n

RESERVE YOUR SPACE!

model

As Chairperson of the Fire Committee, the work I have done with the Kearny Fire Department is extremely rewarding. It is a great op portunity to provide support to the heroic and dedicated members of the KFD. Meet ing with the chief regularly to discuss staffing, budget, acquisition of equipment, grant funding, community outreach and then being able to transmit that information to the Mayor and Council in order to facilitate and imple ment those recommenda tions has provided a stream lined and effective way to ensure that our staffing stays consistent, our equipment is safe (and paid for) and excel lent training is provided.

n

Once again it is difficult to narrow it down to only one. My top two would have to be the Gunnell Oval (refur bishment) and (closing) the Keegan Landfill. Both repre sent the combined efforts of our Mayor, the entire Town Council and the residents of Kearny. There is no better ac

There are several that come to mind but there are two that I feel are most signifi cant.

Experience matters. Under standing how local govern ment works and being able to advocate for residents, business owners and em ployees effectively is critical. The stabilization of taxes, the redevelopment of key areas in town, the support for emergency services and finding ways to improve our recreational facilities are all evidence of a steady hand and the ability to get it done. The people in Kearny trust me to listen, research, ask questions on their behalf and act accordingly.

In addition to experience, I strongly believe that there is no room for hate in Kearny. I have the utmost respect for each individual’s right to their identity, to choose their path and practice their faith. The idea that the govern ment should remain neutral and not officially recognize or favor any one religion defines the separation of religion and government and

SANTANA

reinforces the legal right of a free people to live without fear of government coercion. Free exercise means you may or may not have a faith and you may live it without fear of government interference.

family and I frequent many small businesses in town. Italian food, great bagels, delicious sandwich shops, the best breakfast spots, Mexican, Peruvian and Portuguese specialties, the most amazing empanadas, but in addition to these yummy options we have beautiful green open spaces and a public library that is second to none.

When I first ran for Town Council, the residents were focused on the lack of redevelopment, the increases in taxes, the downsizing of the Police and Fire departments due to economic hardships and the critical need for improvements in recreational facilities. But they were also focused on their love for this town and the certainty that we would find a way to not only survive, but thrive!

We were told we would never attract commercial/corporate attention in Kearny, that we were not the right demographic. They were wrong. Through hard work and persistent, consistent and focused planning, we have emerged as a small town with big accomplishments!

Attending hundreds of events, celebrations and services over the past years, I

have gained perspective about the very diverse community that we are. Representing all of Kearny‘s residents is a duty I take very seriously because our government exists for all people. Equity, respect, compassion and the rule of law must continue to guide us.

Understanding that there is always work to be done and new challenges to take on while providing measured and thoughtful solutions exemplifies my approach. I am grateful to have Mayor Santos, the Kearny Town Council and talented, dedicated professionals to work with as we continue to move Kearny forward. I appreciate your confidence and support and hope you will cast your vote on Line B to allow me to continue serving you as your Third Ward Councilwoman.

David Paszkiewicz, Third Ward

I am running for council because I feel it needs to be more responsive to the needs and concerns of its constituents. Many residents

have expressed to me their belief that some members of the council have grown complacent and no longer listen to them. It seems they have grown comfortable because of their extended time in office. I have also observed over the years that a council seat has simply become a convenient way to enrich oneself and I oppose that. Some members have been in office for years and will receive a pension with health insurance. Although the salary is only $6,000 per year and the pension would be modest, some end up with county jobs before they retire. Because the county is under the same pension system, all it takes is three years in that county job to substantially pad your pension. The state bases your pension on your three highest years of income. If elected, my mind will be set on improving the town of Kearny, not padding my pension. I will not run for more than two terms. The current administration has the appearance of a dynasty. I will push for term limits.



I volunteer through two local organizations. I am the founder and pastor of Berea Baptist Church of Kearny and I am the president and founder of Second River Rowing Inc. Second River Rowing Inc. is the booster organization for the Kearny High School girls’ crew team. It consists of parents and alumni with a purpose of supplementing the KBOE. budget for the team.

Second River was founded in 2018 and has since purchased two racing shells, put on clinics, provided meals for the team at races, provided motel rooms for the team at the Stotesbury Cup and Scholastic Nationals and provided motorcoaches and rooms for the team to compete in Virginia. Second River also puts on an end of season awards dinner for the athletes and provides a scholarship. In the past five years, Second River raised around $80,000 for the team through membership dues and fundraisers.

The primary organization I volunteer through is Berea

Baptist Church of Kearny. I founded Berea Baptist Church in 2016 and have volunteered as its pastor ever since. I hold services on Sunday and a prayer meeting and Bible study on Wednesday nights. Every summer, the church cooperates with Calvary Methodist church in putting on a vacation Bible school. In addition, the church supports Calvary Methodist Church’s food pantry through which we are beginning a Spanish-language ministry. In short, volunteerism is a guiding principle in my life and I live it weekly.

Additional volunteer activities include coaching Kearny Recreation rowing, winter training for KHS crew, and advising the KHS Alpha & Omega and Fishing clubs over the years. Volunteering to me is more than just showing up for an hour at a river cleanup or ribbon cutting for a political photo opp., it’s a way of life.

As far as immediate goals, I entertain no delusions. I

Continued on the next page

Continued

ECKEL

will be one of eight, hopefully part of two of eight alternative voices on the council if elected along with Sydney Ferreira in the Fourth Ward. That’s not exactly a majority, but together we will be the voice of the Kearny resident, not wealthy developers. We will enter negotiations with a single purpose getting a winning deal for the Kearny taxpayer.

We will work vigorously on common goals like alleviating Kearny’s parking problem but not by creating a bloated taxpayer-funded agency to sell permits that can’t possibly guarantee enough spaces for permit holders. A parking commission will not solve the problem, it will only create more positions for career politicians to fill with their cronies.

I will also stress strict enforcement of parking violations as well as enforcement of existing ordinances regarding the renting illegal apartments. In addition, I will support diagonal parking in appropriate areas as well as the construction of parking lots on properties acquired by the town.

n I believe I am a better candidate than my opponent because I will listen to the concerns of my constituents. As I meet constituents they often ask, “who are you running against? Carol Jean Doyle?” When I tell them no, they are shocked to learn that the Third Ward has two councilmembers because they never heard of Eileen Eckel. Constituents don’t know her because she doesn’t get out among them. I know their concerns because I volunteer in the community, work in the community and am a product of the community. I am a lifelong resident (54 years) and I am a product of the Kearny school system where I have been a teacher for 31 years and a crew coach for 35 years. In addition, my volunteer experience has caused me to learn how to manage prudently in order to stretch a dollar as well as to work as part of a team. This temperament will be an asset to the current council.

PASZKIEWICZ

downtown shopping district, I believe small businesses have been hurt by introducing Walmart and developing Passaic Avenue for retail shopping. I’m not against the establishments that exist there, but I think further big box retail should be curbed in favor of supporting the small businesses of residents. I’m old enough to remember Christmas shopping on Kearny Avenue in places like Zelner’s, Drug Fair, Youth World, Ben Franklin, etc. The energy and enthusiasm could be felt. Kearny and Midland avenues are a real treasure. They are like a nostalgic scene out of the 1950s. We need to do all we can to support small businesses and keep the distinct charm of these areas. Part of that might include adding additional police officers on foot during peak hours to give shoppers and diners the added assurance that they are safe.

n

My favorite areas to frequent in Kearny are its green spaces. I’m somewhat of an urban redneck and I love the outdoors. When my kids were young and there was better access, we would fish the Kearny marsh for bass. Even at age 54 you can still find me on occasion sledding down bunny hill. I also love the Passaic River. I love walking its banks, contemplating the great events of history that occurred there and fishing the striped bass run in the Fall and Spring. As a council member, I will do all I can to preserve these green spaces and improve upon them. I would actually like to see a fishing pier built one day for catch and release fishing and bird watching. I would also like to see greater access to the Kearny Marsh by way of trails and canoe and kayak access. Lastly, one of my passions is archery, Kearny has an outdoor

archery range. I don’t know of another suburb that has one. It’s a real gem!

n

In short, I am running for council because I feel it needs to be more responsive to its constituents. Residents are concerned with the complacency and dismissiveness of the current council regarding issues that are important to them. The level of frustration on the part of residents is palpable. I myself have experienced this dismissiveness first hand. One year ago, I requested that the Christmas manger scene at the town hall be moved. I felt that its location was insensitive. It was hidden from view behind shrubs and could not be seen from the street by any angle. It was a problem that could have been solved with a $50 extension cord but the current administration chose to ignore me as well as hundreds of residents who shared my concern. I desire to give the residents of the third ward the voice they have not had. In addition, I will not be a rubber stamp for the current administration. I will oppose dynastic rule and push for term limits. I will always stand on the side of the Kearny tax payer as well as traditional American values. If you are a registered voter in the Third Ward, I hope you will consider voting line 4H David Paszkiewicz.

Sydney Ferreira, Fourth Ward

I am running for council, first and foremost, to be the voice

of my neighbors and fellow residents of the Fourth Ward. In my conversations with residents, the recurring theme has been that most residents feel our leaders are out of touch and their concerns fall on deaf ears.

I have been taking notes, and if elected, I will bring their concerns before the council. I will be the voice of so many of us who believe the system is rigged and no longer works for us, unless we have connections in Town Hall. The residents see some positions and titles handed out to friends and family members of those in power; we the residents believe that government jobs should be given to people based on what they know, not who they know.

n

I am the treasurer of the Acores Social & Sport Club, a Portuguese cultural association in Newark. Over the years, we have contributed to various local organizations and churches in the community, and most notably, we ran a food pantry during the pandemic of 2020 that inspired other local cultural associations to do the same.

I am an active member of the St. Stephen’s Church Choir in Kearny, where I am a parishioner as well. I am also a member of the Portuguese Cultural Association of Kearny (ACP).

Over the years, I have donated to several local charities and volunteered at various local events, such as cultural festivals, food pantries

In Memoriam Mary A. Tortoreti 1942-2016

Lisa M. Feorenzo

Kevin A. Canessa Jr. kc@theobserver.com Editor/Broadcaster

and fundraisers within Kearny and the local area.

n

I would immediately introduce a measure that would establish term limits for Mayor and Council, and I would go even further to disqualify anyone who is currently serving and has already exceeded their term limits from running again for re-election after the expiration of their current term.

This will prevent the rise of local political machines that create barriers to entry for fresh faces and new voices, and we must encourage more people to get involved by attending Town Hall meetings to voice their concerns and hold our leaders accountable. Hopefully, more residents will even start to run for local office themselves, which is what our current leadership does not want.

I would also introduce a measure that would promote tax fairness for all of us by banning all future long-term PILOTs and other tax breaks/ abatements for large-scale residential developers. The tenants of the Vermellas pay premium rents to live in those beautiful buildings, there is no reason why the owner (Russo) cannot pay his full share of taxes.

Property taxes affect us all — landlords and tenants alike. If some are not paying their fair share, the rest of us will have to pay more to compensate for the

39 Seeley Avenue n Kearny, N.J. 07032 n (201) 991-1600 Fax: (201) 991-8941 n www.theobserver.com

Robert P. Pezzolla gm@theobserver.com General Manager

Michelle Rybeck advertising@theobserver.com Graphic Artist/Real Estate

Deadlines (until further notice)

n Classifieds: 3 p.m., Monday

n Obituaries: 10 a.m., Monday

n Display/Real Estate: noon, Thursday

n Help Wanted: noon, Monday — all ads must be sent to classified@theobserver.com.

Jason Bernstein jason@theobserver.com Sports Writer

kimpezzolla@theobserver.com Sales/Classifieds

The Observer on Social Media

facebook.theobserver.com twitter.theobserver.com

instagram.theobserver.com youtube.theobserver.com

lisa@theobserver.com Co-owner/Advertising Dir.

Kimberley Pezzolla

Tina Feorenzo Co-owner/Advertising

loss in revenue, or town services will have to be cut to reduce expenses, which is precisely what has happened over the years.

n

advertising@theobserver.com

Advertising: Here

I have never met my opponent in person or even heard of him before this election, so it would be unfair and unproductive to point out his shortcomings. However, I do know that he was hand-picked by outgoing Councilwoman (Sue) McCurrie and the Santos administration. I believe he would be more of the same and a rubber stamp for the Santos agenda, which has saddled us with the re-opening of the Keegan Landfill, the 30 year tax breaks (PILOTs) for the four Vermella projects, a severe shortfall in parking spaces, heavy traffic and congestion, cuts in town services, and crumbling roads and other infrastructure (such as sewers and water pumping stations that has led to severe flooding in certain parts of town).

I can reassure voters that I will not be a rubber stamp for anyone’s agenda, except

to improve our town and the quality of life for our residents, our families and our small businesses. I will not be afraid to be the dissenting voice on the Council. I will challenge the status quo, question decisions and demand accountability.

I will be a true independent voice without an agenda and beholden to no one, no political party or any other special interest.

n

While I do not object to big-box retailers, I feel our landscape in town is dominated by them, and they have decimated small businesses along our main thoroughfares. We have seen a resurgence again of restaurants and small

Let’s Talk

Real Estate

by Jarlynn Hyde Broker/Owner

REAL ESTATE AGENT VS. BROKER

In the world of real estate jargon, the words agent and broker are often used interchangeably. They are similar, and it’s easy to see how they can get mixed up. While both positions are related, there are differences. The main distinc tion comes down to licensing and experience. A real estate agent is an individual who is licensed to sell property in their state. Agents meet with clients, host open houses, and facilitate everything involved in selling property. Real estate brokers are qualified to own their real estate firm, therefore taking their career beyond the agent level. Further education and specific licensing re quirements must be met, as well as

passing a licensing exam. Brokers can also sell independently.

When choosing an agent or a broker to buy or sell real estate with you, a very important aspect to consider is how comfortable you’ll feel working with them. Are they friendly as well as professional? Trustworthy and knowledgeable? Eager and experienced? You’ll find all this and more at our agency. Simplify your next real estate adventure by putting yourself in the hands of a seasoned, highly respected professional. Established over 55 years ago, our reputation for outstanding work only continues to grow. “Our success has been built one satisfied customer at a time.”

Visit out website at: www.midrealty.com

P.S. Real estate agents must work under brokers and cannot work on their own.

Mid-Realty, Inc. 572 Kearny Avenue • Kearny, NJ 07032

Office: (201) 991-5719 • Cell: (201) 602-7222

shops and our town needs to go a step further, because we still have many empty storefronts. We should set up an area of town to be designated as our “downtown” shopping, business and dining district. Perhaps somewhere along Kearny or Midland avenues, this would be an area of town (an Improvement District) that we could shut down a few times of year to vehicle traffic and hold cultural and arts fairs and an annual Restaurant Week or “Dining under the Stars” as is done in nearby Rutherford.

n

What I enjoy most is simply going for long walks throughout town, greeting neighbors and residents along the way that I’ve known throughout the years or recently met during these last two campaigns. I love seeing the old familiar sites, while appreciating the new improved areas of town.

many other things all in my hometown — the town where I was born and raised and still deeply love.

n

Over the last two years in all my conversations with residents, there seems to be a common theme — our leaders have been in the same positions for too long, and they no longer listen to or act on our concerns. This validated my original reason for entering the race for Mayor last year, as I too had personally become frustrated with the apathy and inaction of Town Hall over the years. It seems that just holding a competitive election puts our leaders on notice and drives them to do the work of the people again. We must also prevent the creation of dynastic rule by instituting term limits for Mayor and Council and start hiring based on qualifications again, not by association or relation.

residents started to see some of their MIA councilmembers at local events and walking their neighborhoods, many residents were excited about local politics and started following the issues and finally we stopped or at least delayed for now another 30-year tax abatement for the next Russo/ Vermella project in town, which reportedly had the full support of Councilwomen Susan McCurrie of the Fourth Ward and Eileen Eckel of the Third Ward (the two contested seats in this election).

Hyde:

As for specific places, there are too many to mention here, and I wouldn’t want to mistakenly omit any of them. I love that there are so many different options in town brought to us by a very diverse population that has only enriched our quality of life in Kearny. I love the fact that I can grab a meal, hang out with friends, visit my doctor, get a haircut, purchase gifts, and

Last year we ran a hastily created and very short campaign for Mayor, and even though we may have lost at the polls, we had some small but significant victories along the way — street paving resumed in full force, snow removal became a priority once more, our leaders started addressing parking concerns again, the Mayor finally agreed to hold in-person Town Council and Zoom meetings simultaneously,

In the last year and a half, we accomplished so much from outside of Town Hall. Just imagine what we could accomplish from within the Council Chamber in Town Hall. If we take these two seats, the possibilities are endless, but we need your vote and the votes of your friends, family members, and neighbors. We can only accomplish this together and with your full support.

This Nov. 8, I humbly ask for your vote, in order to represent you and be your voice on the Council.

n

Wanting to run came down to two key beliefs. First is

Page

INJURY ATTORNEYS

CORY ANNE

Stathis Theodoropoulos, Fourth Ward

FERREIRA

that I love Kearny. It is a town that has given me so much. I got a great education, played sports, made lifelong friends and where my parents built their lives after being in this country for a few years. It’s my home and I want to make sure many more generations do so by working with the mayor and the rest of the team.

But I also believe I will be effective in the role. For the past 12 years, I have been very involved with HellenicAmerican advocacy issues doing the work in Washington D.C. and locally. In the 12 years since, I have learned about public policy, coalition building, politics and have slowly built relationships with people in this space. With all of this collective experience and love for our town, I believe it will help me in this elected role if I win in November.

n

Most of my volunteer activities have been limited for the past eight years as I was starting and scaling my business. But as a young man these past few years, aside from my advocacy work I serve on the Board of Directors for the Cyprus-US chamber of Commerce. That has been a great opportunity that has given me a ton of experience. I was able to be one of the founders of a young professional group, which has been successful in helping create business opportunities between members and helped other members find jobs. That is impactful in many people’s careers and lives.

n

The most urgent goal is to work with Mayor Santos and the Council on the parking problems. They got the ball rolling and I want to make sure we create a town wide plan

that addresses the problem in an efficient way tailored to the circumstances and solutions needed by each neighborhood as best as we can.

Beyond that, I have two key goals. My first goal is work with our local businesses, our mom and pop shops, and see where the levers of government, through policy and grants can make an impact for them. As a small business owner myself, I believe I can connect with our small business owners due to our shared experience and really understand their needs. From there, I can work with the Mayor and Council, other government agencies, and the local community to help bring the resources that will deepen the vibrant business environment in Kearny that the Mayor and the Council have already started.

The second priority for me will be to work with the team on growing e-government. From speaking to members of the council, there is an understanding that the COVID-19 pandemic shifted our behaviors and expectations of how the local government interacts and serves its residents. As a business person I also understand that efficient processes internally in any organization helps with freeing up valuable resources and provides better outcomes.

n

A couple areas that distinguish me, include my business experience and my involvement on a state and national level with community leaders on Hellenic-American policy issues and initiatives. I know what it takes to get things done especially when surrounded with people who have many different views than your own.

The Fourth Ward is a diversely populated area. Residents from all walks of life reside here. I’ve been very fortunate to have the opportunity to campaign door to door for this council seat, so I have seen that diversity firsthand.

As I go door to door, it reaffirms my belief that to be an effective representative, a policy maker or problem solver, it is not who speaks the loudest or talks over people who are not in agreement. To be effective you need to bring your expertise and ideas, your unique and individual perspective and then you stop talking and you listen to the residents. This is the kind of representation that I believe in and one I will be for all the residents of the Fourth Ward.

n

As a business owner, I know that business is about serving our customers and the community, but it is also about competition. So am I content? Not really, because every day we need to compete against communities that are doing the same work. But I am happy with our commitment.

Mayor Santos and the Council have done a tremendous job in rebuilding our Passaic Avenue shopping district, but have done it in a responsible way. And these new businesses serve our community, provide jobs and

bring revenue to our town.

But we understand as a team we have more work to do, and will always have more work to do. Midland Avenue, Elm Street and Davis Avenue will be my biggest priority if elected. We have so much potential to transform that part of town that will bring foot traffic and appeal to the area. That will provide a boost to the current businesses, and attract more entrepreneurs to make Kearny and the Fourth Ward their home and provide revenue to help stabilize the tax base.

n

We have so many great eateries (yes, in support of my heritage I would be remiss if I did not mention The Greeks, a place I’ve been going to since I was kid), serving all kinds of delicious food, desserts and coffees. One of my favorite bagel shops is the Bagel Corner.

My favorite thing to do is get bagels from there, take them to a meeting in NYC, and have folks comment how great the bagels are. Then I tell them that Kearny bagels are best and quite honestly that Kearny is the best.

n

On Tuesday, Nov. 8, you will vote on who will represent you. I come to this moment as a small business owner, advocate and community leader whose collective experience, and vision for our town, will serve the Fourth Ward with integrity and effectiveness.

As a first-generation American, I also understand the need to keep our town safe and inclusive for all, and will work hard to do so. I want our town to continue evolving to continue to be a special place where people can plant roots in our town and a place where residents that have been here for generations will continue to call this place home.

But keeping Kearny a special

place does not happen by accident. It takes a team with great public servants to make that happen. I am proud to be on the Santos Team. I will add my voice to Town Hall as an independent thinker, to lift up our ward’s voice and deliver to our community. So on Tuesday, Nov. 8, I ask that you consider me for Fourth Ward Council and vote Line “B.” Thank you.

n North Arlington Lynette Cavadas *

One of my proudest accomplishments, so far, was bringing a sensory-friendly section to our Memorial Day Parade. Our specialneeds community is very near to my heart and making our community inclusive has become a passion of mine. There is still so much work to be done for our residents who have special needs and I look forward to working with our local organizations to give our residents equal opportunities.

n

There have been so many accomplishments over the past few years, but the one that stands out above the rest is our ability to continue to keep our municipal taxes at a zero increase. As we watch prices rise on everything around us, our residents can take some comfort in knowing that our municipal taxes will remain stable another year.

n

Not so much a regret but my term as a Councilwoman included the COVID shutdown. I am a doer and go- getter so to have things shift and slowdown was difficult. I am so excited that our community is back up and running and truly flourishing.

n

I have served a threeyear term as a councilwoman for North Arlington. I have been a liaison to our Board of Health, Board of Education, Library Board, Recreational Department, Access for All and Municipal Alliance. I have had the pleasure of establishing our community garden and enjoy volunteering to run programs like Pokémon Trading night in the library. I am currently on the E-Board for the North Arlington Jr. Vikings football and cheerleading.

n

THEODOROPOULOS

CAVADAS

It is a fairly difficult question, since I know next to nothing about our opponent. That alone, speaks volumes. We live in a wonderful tight-knit community where we have the ability to be present and involved on so many levels. I can speak for myself when I let everyone know that I will continue to be present, accessible and an active member in my community. I plan to remain a proud resident of North Arlington for a long time and my driving force will always be to continue being visible and active in moving our Borough forward and doing what’s right for our residents and our business owners.

n Being content can sometimes lead to being complacent. There is always room for improvement and that is what sets our mayor and Council apart from others. We are constantly looking at ways to improve and help our businesses thrive. We continuously encourage our businesses to take pride and make upgrades to continue to improve the aesthetics of our shopping district. We pride ourselves on shopping local and supporting our small businesses.

n North Arlington is truly a wonderful place to live and raise a family. When I think about my favorite places to frequent the list could go on forever. There aren’t too many towns that can say they have the accessibility that we do. Everything you could possibly want, or need is in walking distance. That is what drew me to this beautiful Borough.

n I have an undeniable love and connection to our borough and its residents. To be a councilwoman for North Arlington has been an honor. My proven record of hard work and dedication should be an indication of more to come. I’m confident the voters of North Arlington are well informed and know what is best for everyone. I look forward to continuing to serve my community and residents for years to come.

Kirk Del Russo *

The many achievements made over the past four years were made as a collective group of like-minded individuals. We currently have such a well-rounded, cohesive group serving the great people of North Arlington. The mayor and Council take so much pride in making sure every great idea and event is carried out to the fullest.

The mayor has entrusted me as the council liaison to our senior citizens. My initial goals were to have more programs and initiatives formed to better serve them. I envisioned many community outings, and meetings in the park.

During COVID, the seniors stopped meeting regularly and missed out on quite a bit. I worked with the Senior Club president to help, whenever possible, to make their meetings safer and easier. We made sure each of our seniors had the latest information and that they knew how to arrange transportation to pharmacies and that they had access to vaccinations. We were even able to organize a few outdoor, park meetings during the slow virus seasons.

Once the COVID restrictions were lifted, my first goal was to get the trips started, so Mayor Pronti and I organized a group outing to Atlantic City, which proved to be a huge success. Hopefully everything stays calm and we can look forward to many more outings.

n

Where do I begin with the accomplishments made by this governing body? They have been amazing moving our Borough forward. The biggest impacts would have to be: Our ability to improve every area of government, improve the quality of life in North Arlington, expand our open spaces, promote our town, raise the pride and add art and culture all while not raising the municipal property taxes a single dollar over that time.

n

My biggest regret is not having had an opportunity to serve this community earlier in life. I was born and raised in North Arlington and would have been able to provide knowledge and historical

facts much earlier than I am currently able to do. I am using this time to make up for those years and hope to start the North Arlington Historical Society under my next term.

n

Liaison to DPW & Finance Committee; Chairman of Seniors and Veterans Affairs.

n

Being born and raised in North Arlington gives me the pride to say I am better served, but the accomplishments I have made throughout my life and as a Councilman as well as Council Vice President stand out above everything. I have proven to be available when needed and am a visible, recognizable, approachable asset to our residents.

n

There is always room for improvement. Clearly, we have made positive changes and the improvements are outstanding, but we must keep moving forward with our plans to improve the parking situation in our south end and at the same time, assist the residents along the Belleville Pike with the overflow that affects them.

Small businesses are finally able to be sustainable in North Arlington, where in the past only a few of our longtime businesses were able to survive. Being a former small business owner, I have the mindset to be able to reach out and identify the important practices and how to avoid certain downfalls and provide helpful solutions to improve.

n

Our local places seem to get better and better every step of the way. From businesses to athletic complexes, to the municipal building. I frequent our local businesses and eateries quite often. I feel it is important to interact with them to get a feel or heartbeat for what they need to prosper.

n Mayor Pronti has assembled a fantastic team. We all work very well together and our collective goal is to continue to make North Arlington the best place to live, work, raise a family and retire. I look forward to the opportunity in the next three years to continue to serve our residents. I am thankful for the opportunities I have had and look forward to continuing on this journey of completing what we have started. I am dedicated and devoted to this borough 24-

7/365 days a year.

Our community has never looked better or been in a better financial state. We have kept the municipal portion of our borough taxes at 0% for the sixth-straight year. Help us keep the positive momentum and vibe going!

If you like what you see, if you like the direction the borough is going in, the financial stability, the sense of community we have brought back, the positive impact the Pronti Team has achieved, then support us by voting for us Nov. 8. Thank you!

DEL RUSSO