This article is sponsored by Willow Lake Day Camp.

Winter is in full force here in Northern New Jersey: zipped coats, chilly mornings, packed schedules, and spring still feeling far away. But if you’re a New Jersey parent already dreaming of summer, you’re not alone — and camp sign-ups and seasons come quickly. Between juggling busy schedules and counting down the days until warmer weather returns, it’s only natural to start picturing sunshine-filled days, outdoor adventures, and those classic summer camp memories that kids (and parents) talk about for years.

The good news? That magic exists. Located at 200 State Route 181 in Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey, Willow Lake Day Camp has been bringing summer magic to local families for more than 40 years. Trusted year after year, the camp focuses on what matters most to parents: communication, safety, and the assurance that every child is cared for throughout the day. Read on to learn more about what sets Willow Lake Day Camp apart from other New Jersey summer camps.

Why Families Choose Willow Lake

Parents today have no shortage of summer camp options in New Jersey. What truly sets Willow Lake apart is its attention to every detail and every camper,  along with its excellent communication and a warm, caring atmosphere. With age-appropriate facilities and equipment and a dynamic program that grows with campers as they get older, every child is seen, supported, and valued. Nothing is treated as “minor,” whether it’s managing allergies and health concerns or sunscreen applications and daily check-ins.

“Families often say Willow Lake feels more like a sleepaway camp experience with the comfort of coming home every night,” according to its Director, Charles Maltzman.

Set on 35 acres along the north shore of Lake Hopatcong, Willow Lake is a family-owned and operated camp that has been welcoming campers ages 3-15 since 1980. Families come from across Hudson, Essex, Morris, and Union Counties, including many right here in Montclair and the surrounding area, and are drawn by the camp’s reputation for safety, variety, and care.

A Day at Willow Lake

At Willow Lake, the day doesn’t just start when campers arrive. It starts the moment kids get on the bus. Bus rides are fully programmed with games, trivia, and age-appropriate music playlists, setting the tone for a fun, engaging day. Upon arrival, campers are greeted by smiling counselors and brought to their designated arrival areas before jumping into a well-balanced schedule of Aquatics, Athletics, Arts, and Adventure.

Younger campers are exposed to a wide variety of activities, while campers entering 2nd grade and older begin to customize part of their day through elective choice, which builds their independence and confidence over time. The facilities are thoughtfully designed so even the youngest campers can hit a homer, zip line, climb, swim, and create art in spaces built just for them.

With four heated pools, campers receive daily small-group swim instruction from one of Willow Lake’s 40 certified lifeguards, followed by recreational swim time to cool off in the afternoon. It’s the kind of place where kids feel confident, cared for, and excited to come back each day- sign us up!

Across the property, campers get access to:

• 20 sports fields and courts
• 2 lakes for boating and fishing
• 15 dedicated art areas
• 6 zip lines and 3 adventure parks
• 2 cooking studios
• A full theater program featuring productions like Shrek, The Lion King, and Wicked

No two days feel the same, and every day is intentionally structured to balance fun, growth, and safety.

Keeping Campers Safe at Willow Lake

Safety is at the heart of everything Willow Lake Day Camp does. The camp employs over 150 teachers and nearly 200 high school and college-aged staff members, many of whom return year after year. Two full-time team members focus just on hiring and staffing, making sure every program has the best people in place. Each camper has 2 – 4 dedicated counselors, depending on age, so there is always a familiar face around and every activity is supervised by trained adults, coaches, or teachers.

Willow Lake’s 40-person Leadership Team includes educators, school counselors, and seven full-time registered nurses, overseeing two fully staffed on-site health centers. The owners and directors work year-round planning for camp and are on-site every single day throughout the summer, making sure everything runs smoothly and every camper feels supported.

Hands-on Leadership and Expert Directors at Willow Lake

For many families, Willow Lake represents important firsts. The first time sending a child to a non-local camp, the first time their kid rides the bus, and the first step toward independence. The directors take that responsibility seriously, creating a true partnership with parents built on trust and communication.

As parents themselves, the leadership team pays attention to both the obvious and the overlooked, from hydration and sunscreen to emotional support, confidence-building, and teaching the “soft skills” that screens can’t. Their philosophy centers on helping campers grow, try new things, build friendships, and gain skills that extend far beyond the summer months.

A great camp experience isn’t just about what happens during the day. It is also about peace of mind for parents. At Willow Lake, details like transportation, meals, and communication are thoughtfully planned to help ensure campers are safe, happy, and well cared for.

Transportation
The camp offers central-location bus pickups in many surrounding towns. Buses are seatbelt-equipped, inspected daily, and driven by professional, year-round drivers. Two Willow Lake counselors ride each bus to ensure both safety and fun, and fewer stops mean quicker, safer rides.

Food & Allergies
Campers receive a morning snack, a full hot lunch, and an afternoon ice pop each day. Willow Lake works with an experienced caterer who serves school districts and is fully equipped to handle allergies and special dietary needs like celiac, kosher, and more. All of the camp is nut and seed free. Lunch includes hot meals plus salad, pasta, bagel, and sandwich bars, fresh fruit, yogurt, and more, with staff seated alongside campers to ensure everyone is eating well.

Communication
“Clear, consistent communication is incredibly important to us,” says Charles Maltzman, Director at Willow Lake. “From prompt responses to calls and emails to weekly newsletters and daily access to more than 1,000 private photos, we want families to feel connected to their child’s camp experience every step of the way.” Willow Lake is widely praised for its customer service and transparent communication. Families receive prompt responses to calls and emails, weekly newsletters, and access to over 1,000 private photos posted daily, so parents can truly see their child’s camp experience unfold.

All Camp. All the Time.

Sure, it may be winter right now, but those warm lake days will be here before we know it. When they arrive, Willow Lake Day Camp is ready to deliver what they promise year after year: Best. Summer. Ever.

The best summer memories don’t happen by accident; they’re built with intention. From carefully planned activities to safe, caring staff, every detail is designed so campers can have fun, grow, and make memories that last a lifetime.

To learn more about dates, rates, and enrollment, visit Willow Lake Day Camp’s website. You can also follow along on Facebook and Instagram for a peek into daily camp life and upcoming summer fun. Because the best summer memories start now- even in the middle of winter.

The post This North Jersey Day Camp Has Been a Favorite Since the ‘80s appeared first on Hoboken Girl.

Cannabis dispensaries in New Jersey have been at the forefront of discussions since the legalization of marijuana in 2022. Many eager entrepreneurs are looking to get involved in the ever-growing cannabis industry — and among them is a New Jersey-based celebrity who just opened a dispensary here in Hudson County. Rapper and actor Ice-T has teamed up with The Medicine Woman co-owner, Charis Burrett, to open a cannabis dispensary in Jersey City in March 2025.  As of January 6th, 2025, the dispensary has closed. Read on for what we know about Ice-T’s Jersey City-based dispensary, The Medicine Woman.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by The Medicine Woman New Jersey (@themedwomannj)

About The Medicine Woman

The Medicine Woman was founded by Charis Burrett and her husband, Luke Burrett, back in 2019. It initially began as a California-based non-profit, where it delivered over 300 products to its patients, according to the website.

“Our mission at The Medicine Woman is to provide a full-spectrum of global plant medicines to benefit the health and wellness of our local communities,” the website reads. “We have now expanded to offer more than 1,000 products, have launched our own multi-collection private label product line, and are currently in the development phase of launching our 2nd brick and mortar location.” The second brick-and-mortar location is the recently opened Jersey City spot — and the first is located in Bellflower, California.

Read More: Hoboken Dispensary The Station Adds Recreational Sales

The Jersey City Dispensary

Ice-T, also known as Tracy Lauren Marrow, has been in the public eye for decades now. He is known for being a rapper and, more recently, an actor, portraying Fin on Law & Order: SVU. Ice-T and Charis have been close friends for a long time, per Forbes. The collaboration makes a lot of sense; Charis is an expert in cannabis, while Ice-T is deeply familiar with the cannabis industry’s historically disproportionate impact on minority populations. Plus, Ice-T is also well-acquainted with New Jersey. He was born in Newark, grew up in Summit, and currently lives in Edgewater, New Jersey.

“I’ve dedicated my life and career to giving back and paving the way for minorities,” Ice-T previously said in a statement. “As a New Jersey native, I’m excited for the opportunity legalization offers our community, and I look forward to ushering in a new era for cannabis in the state.”

On July 25th, 2022, Jersey City’s Cannabis Control Board approved four Class 5 cannabis applicants — including The Medicine Woman. The other applicants were MedUSA NJ, LLC; Oceanfront Holdings LLC; and The Other Side Dispensary LLC, per TapInto. The Jersey City Cannabis Control Board is in charge of creating and enforcing all things cannabis. All local dispensaries must receive its approval.

The Medicine Woman, which was hoping for a fall 2022 opening, is said to have 5,000-square-feet of retail space, and sells merchandise as well as New Jersey cannabis brands. According to TapInto in 2022, The Medicine Woman had already partnered with some local non-profits, including The Last Prisoner Project, Jersey City Employment and Training Program, Jersey City Mural and Arts Program, and Hudson County Community College.

Updates as of January 2024

In January 2024, The Medicine Woman was “approved by the state Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) Wednesday,” January 17th, to sell recreational marijuana, per NJ.com.  In a statement to NJ.com following the approval, Ice-T’s partner Charis said, “We could not be more ecstatic… We are so thankful to Jersey City and everyone involved that has helped us to get to this point.”

At the time, the duo planned to open The Medicine Woman at 660-684 Tonnelle Avenue in the spring or summer of 2024.

See More: New Cannabis Dispensary Nightjar is Open in Bloomfield

Updates as of March 2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by The Medicine Woman New Jersey (@themedwomannj)

The Medicine Woman is now in its soft opening stages in Jersey City as of Thursday, March 27th, 2025, per an Instagram post from the team. The grand opening celebration will be held on the weekend of April 19th and 20th.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by The Medicine Woman New Jersey (@themedwomannj)

January 2026 Closure

An HG reader flagged that the dispensary may have closed over the New Year. As of January 6th, 2026, the Jersey City location of the Medicine Woman has disappeared from the company’s website. The Google listing for the business shows it as ‘permanently closed.’ The Hoboken Girl has reached out to the business for more information and will update this piece when we hear back. 

Follow @thehobokengirl on Instagram + TikTok for the latest Hoboken and Jersey City updates, sign up for our weekly newsletter here that shares everything you missed each week, and check out our events calendar, which has over 100+ events weekly to peruse.

The post Ice-T’s Dispensary ‘The Medicine Woman’ Closes in Jersey City appeared first on Hoboken Girl.

The post 10 Best Things in 2025 That Happened at The Local Girl appeared first on Hoboken Girl.

This article is sponsored by Go Vigilant App.

Staying informed has become part of everyday life, whether that means checking in with loved ones, keeping up with local news, or staying aware of what’s happening nearby. But with so much information coming from so many places, it can be hard to know what’s helpful and what’s just noise. That’s where Vigilant comes in.

Founded by Hoboken resident Ellie Pikula, a former FBI Special Agent and intelligence analyst, Go Vigilant is a new safety intelligence app designed to make staying aware feel more streamlined, thoughtful, and manageable. Built by a team of former federal agents, intelligence professionals, and military veterans, the app delivers real-time safety information in a way that feels clear, calm, and easy to navigate.  Keep reading to learn more about the Go Vigilant App, a new safety mobile platform designed by a Hoboken resident, for Hoboken residents.

The Story Behind Vigilant

 The idea for Vigilant grew out of the founding team’s experience working in federal service and intelligence. Time and again, they saw how important information often didn’t reach communities as quickly or clearly as it could. Whether it was a local incident or a larger emergency, updates were frequently delayed, fragmented, or difficult to access.

With that in mind, the team set out to build a platform that could close that gap. The result is Vigilant, a safety intelligence and preparedness app designed to keep communities informed and connected in real time.

What Makes Vigilant Different

With so many apps and platforms sharing updates, knowing which information to trust is key. Vigilant stands apart by relying on intelligence-grade data from more than 10,000 verified sources worldwide, including government alerts, official news agencies, weather services, and emergency feeds.

Using AI-powered technology, Vigilant continuously filters, verifies, and prioritizes information so alerts are timely, accurate, and relevant. Each notification is designed with one goal in mind: sharing information that genuinely helps people stay informed in the moment.

Key Features of Vigilant

Vigilant combines multiple professional-grade safety tools into one simple, user-friendly app designed for everyday life.

• AI Safety Agent: Provides fast, practical guidance during uncertain situations, including next steps and helpful resources
• Encrypted Chat + SOS: Allows for secure communication and quick SOS activation when needed Location
  Sharing + Group Tracking: Makes it easy to share live location with friends or family while commuting, traveling, or meeting up
• Live Safety Alerts: Delivers real-time updates on nearby activity, local incidents, and major breaking news
• Broadcastify + 911 Scanner Monitoring: Offers access to public safety radio traffic for added context during developing situations

Built for Hoboken and Beyond

As a Hoboken resident, founder Ellie Pikula understands the rhythms of city life, from crowded trains to peaceful waterfront walks. Vigilant was designed with communities like Hoboken in mind, adding an extra layer of awareness whether close to home or on the move. Vigilant currently provides coverage in more than 195 countries worldwide, with especially strong alert density in major cities and popular travel destinations.

Alert Categories include:

• Natural disasters
• Transportation and travel disruptions
• Civil unrest and public safety
• Infrastructure failures
• Emergency alerts worldwide

Wherever life takes you, Vigilant goes too.

Exclusive Deal for Hoboken Girl Readers

To celebrate the launch, Vigilant is offering Hoboken Girl Readers an exclusive introductory rate of just $0.99 for your first month.
Readers can redeem the offer here.

Download Vigilant Today

Vigilant is now available to download and is ready to help users stay informed without the stress, speculation or noise.

To learn more or get started visit:
Instagram
Website

The post Hoboken Resident Launches Vigilant App to Make Staying Safe + Informed Easier appeared first on Hoboken Girl.

The women of Hoboken and Jersey City continue to amaze us every year, and with 2026 bringing a fresh start, we at The Hoboken Girl wanted to highlight some of the area’s extra-special locals — as we’ve done for many years. From entrepreneurs to leaders of change, these women are beloved members of our community and are doing big things in 2026. Read on for our list of 26 Hoboken + Jersey City women to watch in 2026.

Dileiny Baron | Founder, The Creators Loft

Content creator, creative strategist, and founder of The Creators Loft in Jersey City, Dileiny Baron has built a community space with fully-styled sets for photographers, content creators, and brands. Her work empowers local creatives and elevates Hudson County’s artistic and digital-media scene.

Vanessa Berensten and Michaela Rubin | Founders, The Loop

Vanessa Berentsen and Michaela Rubin are the friends and founders behind The Loop, “a passion project born from countless closet cleanouts and conversations over wine about wanting a better, more sustainable way to shop and sell locally,” the duo shared. Through sales and various pop-up events, The Loop aims to reduce waste, make it easier for locals to sell their clothes + refresh their wardrobe, and bring the community together in the process.  “We’re inspired by the belief that small, simple shifts—like cleaning out your closet or choosing to shop secondhand—can make a meaningful impact,” Vanessa and Michaela said. “There’s something uniquely satisfying about decluttering, earning a little extra cash without much effort, and knowing your once-loved pieces are getting a second life in someone else’s wardrobe. It’s a win for your wallet, your ​wardrobe, and the planet.”

Renelle “Buffy” White Buffalo | Jersey City-based artist and activist

Renelle “Buffy” White Buffalo is a Jersey City-based visual artist. Buffy is Lakota and an enrolled member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Her art explores her Lakota heritage and upbringing, her identity as an indigenous woman, and environmental connections.

Read More: 4 Hoboken Residents Share How They Find Meaningful Connections in the City

Sasha Campusano | Founder of Dine and Vibe

Sasha Campusano is the founder of Dine & Vibe, a Jersey City–based community platform and events series created to bring people together through food, music, and shared experiences. What started as a passion for connection has grown into a space where culture, nightlife, and community intersect, both online and at in-person gatherings across the area. Through Dine & Vibe, Sasha highlights local restaurants, DJs, creatives, and cultural events while intentionally creating inclusive spaces that feel welcoming, celebratory, and rooted in community, amplifying Black and Brown creators and residents in the community. Her work centers joy, representation, and togetherness, proving that good food and good vibes can be powerful tools for connection.

Heidi Castrillón | President + CEO, Hudson County Latin American Chamber of Commerce (HCLACC)

As President and CEO of the Hudson County Latin American Chamber of Commerce, Heidi Castrillón champions economic growth and entrepreneurial opportunity for the county’s Latino business community. Her leadership focuses on mentorship, cross-sector partnerships, and expanding access to resources for minority-owned businesses. Heidi presently serves on the Governor’s Council on Mental Health Stigma and was appointed by New Jersey Governors Christie and Murphy.

Jaclyn Cherubini | Executive Director, Hoboken Shelter

Jaclyn Cherubini is the longtime Executive Director of The Hoboken Shelter, where she has spent over two decades leading the mission to end homelessness one person at a time. At the helm of the organization, Jaclyn helps ensure that hundreds of neighbors in need have access to food, safe shelter, showers, case management, counseling, job training, creative arts workshops, and paths to permanent housing. Previously, she served as Assistant Director at Pathways to Housing in New York City, where she played a key role in expanding housing services for individuals experiencing homelessness. Beyond her work at the Shelter, she serves in leadership roles with the Hudson County Continuum of Care/Alliance to End Homelessness and other local nonprofits addressing housing and community support. Her years of dedication have touched countless lives across Hudson County, making her a steadfast force for compassion, stability, and community impact.

Chris Cragin-Day | Artistic Director, Mile Square Theatre

Chris Cragin-Day is a playwright, educator, and Artistic Director of Mile Square Theater in Hoboken. Mile Square Theater is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that provides theatre arts programs for youth and adults alike. The theater’s mission is to “Enrich and engage the region through the production of professional theatre and innovative arts education.” As part of this mission, Chris launched the theatre’s first play-reading program in September of 2025. The play-reading program allows playwrights to have their work read aloud as part of their drafting process in preparation for their World Premiere. During Chris’s time at the theater, they have also launched a season ticket membership program. Before she joined Mile Square Theater in April of 2025, Chris taught both undergraduate and graduate-level theater courses at institutions including Rutgers Mason Gross School of the Arts.

Neidy Gutierrez + Adrienne Romero | Founders, Slice of Culture 

Neidy Gutierrez and Adrienne Romero are the co-founders of Slice of Culture, a local publication focusing on the underrepresented stories of the Hudson County community. Growing up in Northern New Jersey, Neidy and Adrienne were aware of the various cultures around them but noticed there wasn’t enough positive coverage of our community in traditional media. So in 2020, the two started Slice of Culture to help cover the diverse community in Hudson County. In 2025, Neidy and Adrienne plan to continue serving the community through authentic multimedia storytelling and collaboration and eventually scale Slice of Culture to become a path of generational wealth for their amazing team.

Jordan Hernandez | Founder, Completely Booked

Entrepreneur and social justice advocate Jordan Hernandez created Completely Booked, a storytelling and literacy platform that uplifts diverse authors and builds community through books. A longtime Hoboken resident, Jordan champions inclusive storytelling for readers of all ages. Jordan has spoken on several nationwide panels about reading and literacy, including the National Book Festival in Washington, DC, and the Black Book Festival in Martha’s Vineyard, MA. Jordan frequently organizes book swaps and book drives, and ended 2025 with a book drive for the Hoboken Community Center, resulting in 120 books donated, many with diverse characters and authors. 

Emily Jabbour | Mayor-Elect of Hoboken

A longtime Hoboken resident and now Mayor-Elect of Hoboken, Emily Jabbour has spent close to two decades working in federal child- and family-wellbeing policy before becoming a Hoboken Councilmember-At-Large. As a Councilwoman, she has been a part of initiatives focused on public safety, civic engagement, and family-focused initiatives. Emily is also the founder of Hudson County Moms Demand Action and a volunteer supporting local schools and food-security programs.

Deb Italiano | Founder, Sustainable JC

Deb Italiano is the founder of Sustainable JC, a community-driven organization empowering Jersey City residents to take climate action at the local level. The organization focuses on local impacts of climate change, engaging in environmental justice work. One example is the organization’s recent Heat Watch and Air Quality Campaign. Through education, advocacy, and hands-on initiatives, Deb has become a leading voice for urban sustainability, environmental justice, and green infrastructure across Hudson County.

Eden Jusma | Crochet Artist, Eden Created That

Eden Jusma is a born and raised Jersey City artist who sells her designs and creates custom orders for crochet pieces. She first found her love of crocheting in the third grade, growing her craft while attending County Prep in Jersey City, where she majored in Clothing and Textiles. The pieces she creates include clothing items, pet accessories, and more.

Keira Kordowski | Hoboken OG

Keira Kordowski is a Hoboken resident of 20 years known for her Instagram account Hoboken OG. The account centers around events, small businesses, and life in The Mile Square City. To celebrate her 20th anniversary in Hoboken in September, Keira hosted a pop-up event featuring 12 of her favorite small businesses in the area at Shepherd & The Knucklehead.

Kyung Lee | Director, Hudson County CASA (Court-Appointed Special Advocates)

Kyung Lee is the newly appointed Executive Director of Hudson County CASA, the Jersey City-based nonprofit dedicated to advocating for abused and neglected children by training volunteers to serve as a voice for kids in the foster care system. She joined CASA in 2014 and has since grown into a leader who combines legal expertise with deep compassion for children and families. Kyung is admitted to the New Jersey Bar, and under her leadership, CASA continues its mission to ensure that every foster child has a safe, permanent home and a dedicated advocate in court. Her work embodies a commitment to community, justice, and transforming the lives of children in Hudson County.

Dr. Lisa Lippman | Veterinarian, Jersey City (and beyond!)

Dr. Lippman is known for her compassionate, thorough veterinary care and her long-standing contributions to local animal wellness. A Jersey City resident, her practice has supported countless families and rescued pets across the community. Even if you haven’t visited Dr. Lippman, you’ve likely seen her on a screen, making public appearances on national TV platforms and sharing tips for pet owners across the country.

Kate Lombardo | Yoga Educator + Founder, YogaRenew

A nationally-recognized yoga educator and owner of Hoboken’s YogaRenew (voted Best Yoga Studio by HG readers in 2024), Kate Lombardo is known for her work shaping teacher-training programs rooted in accessibility, mindfulness, and holistic wellness. Most recently, she co-launched Rooted, a mentorship program empowering yoga teachers and studio owners to build lucrative, long-lasting careers.

Terry Mignoli | Hoboken Beer & Soda

This year, Hoboken Beer + Soda celebrated its 50th year in town — a milestone achieved in great part because of Terry Mignoli. Working alongside her husband Joe, Terry is a local legend in her own right, known for her warm customer service and dedication to maintaining one of Hoboken’s most iconic small businesses. 

Victoria Moyeno | Hoboken Historical Museum 

Victoria Moyeno is a born-and-raised Hoboken resident and the Development Manager at the Hoboken Historical Museum, helping preserve and uplift the City’s cultural legacy. Her work supports exhibitions, archival storytelling, and community programs that keep Hoboken’s history accessible and engaging for residents old and new. Victoria is also a board member of the Lupe Fund NJ, a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to increasing the number of Latinas in leadership positions through education and empowerment.

Simona D. Ovanezian | CEO, Hoboken Organization Against Poverty + Economic Stress (HOPES CAP)

Simona Ovanezian is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Hoboken Organization Against Poverty + Economic Stress Community Action Partnership (HOPES CAP). She has been involved in the organization for over 21 years and became President in 2018. HOPES CAP is a nonprofit organization that works to expand access to early-childhood education, workforce development, housing support, and financial literacy programs. Simona joined HOPES CAP in 2003 as the Director of Finance, becoming Vice President of the nonprofit in 2015. Prior to her work with HOPES CAP, Simona worked at Columbia University. 

Ellie Pikula | Founder, GoVigilant App

Ellie Pikula is a Hoboken resident, former federal agent, and the founder of GoVigilant, a personal-safety app designed to empower users with real-time alerts, location tracking, and community-supported emergency tools. Drawing on her background in federal law enforcement, Ellie created GoVigilant to help people feel more secure in their everyday lives by combining practical technology with real-world public safety insight. Her mission is to make safety more accessible, proactive, and community-driven, starting at the local level.

Casey Repetti | Casey2Cook

Casey Repetti is a realtor, mother, private Chef and influencer behind the account Casey2Cook. Casey is truly Hoboken-born and raised, with family members going back generations in the Mile Square. She attended the Institute of Culinary Education in Manhattan and is currently the private Chef for Yankee player Jazz Chisholm Jr.

Elizabeth Schedl | Executive Director, Hudson County Pride Center

Elizabeth Schedl is a leading advocate for LGBTQ+ safety, health, and empowerment as Executive Director of the Hudson Pride Center. She has expanded programming around youth support, HIV prevention, trans health access, and community outreach — making Hudson Pride one of the most active LGBTQ+ centers in the region. She serves on the Union City Municipal Alliance to Combat Alcoholism and Drug Abuse and is a Council Member of the New Jersey Coalition Against Sexual Assault. She was appointed to the Governor’s Age-Friendly State Advisory Council and the Advisory Council for Healthy New Jersey 2030.

Emily Strauss | Mural Artist + Founder, Mural Painter Inc.

Emily Strauss is a Hoboken-based muralist and founder of Mural Painter Inc., who helped lead the creation of the new 2,025-square-foot community mural at the 7th & Jackson Resiliency Park. Her work on the piece, developed with input from local residents and youth through workshops and photo submissions, celebrates the people, history, and everyday life of Hoboken’s west side. The vibrant mural has quickly become a visual landmark in the park, reflecting community pride and resilience.

Renee Turonis | President, St. Mary’s Advocates

Renee Turonis is the President of St. Mary’s Advocates, the nonprofit arm of St. Mary’s thrift store in Hoboken that doubles as a community hub and charitable force. In her role, Renee ensures that the store’s everyday operations contribute to local causes through donations, scholarships, and ongoing support for community organizations. Under her guidance, St. Mary’s Advocates has become a vital part of Hoboken, combining sustainability with service and making philanthropy accessible to neighbors and visitors. Renee’s work reflects a deep commitment to giving back, strengthening community connections, and uplifting those in need through thoughtful nonprofit initiatives. Her leadership continues to make a tangible impact across Hudson County, as she champions collaboration, compassion, and community-driven support. 

Janet Wallach | Director of Programming at the Boys + Girls Club of Hudson County 

Janet Wallach is the Director of Program Development at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hudson County, where she helps shape and oversee impactful youth programs that support children and teens across the community. In her role, she works closely with staff, volunteers, and partners to create enriching after-school, leadership, and development opportunities for members in Jersey City and Hoboken. Her leadership in teen services has been spotlighted in local coverage for helping recognize and encourage young club members’ achievements.

Sarah Weber Gallo | Dance Artist + Studio Director, The Hoboken Dance Academy

Hoboken resident and choreographer Sarah Weber Gallo has opened The Hoboken Dance Academy in uptown Hoboken. Located at 1427 Grand Street, the new studio offers dance classes for toddlers, children, and adults in a variety of styles, including ballet, jazz, bachata, and hip-hop. A celebrated dance educator, Sarah brings years of professional experience and a commitment to nurturing young performers throughout Hudson County.

See More: A List of Women-Owned Businesses in Montclair

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Follow @thehobokengirl on Instagram + TikTok for the latest Hoboken and Jersey City updates, sign up for our weekly newsletter here that shares everything you missed each week, and check out our events calendar, which has over 100+ events weekly to peruse.

People

The post 26 Hoboken + Jersey City Women to Watch in 2026 appeared first on Hoboken Girl.

No matter which corner of the world you live in, it’s a fact that our home environments shape the way we think and feel. With so much of our time spent within the walls of tiny North Jersey apartments that double as home offices, loving where you live, work, and play is more important than ever. Hoboken interior designer Laura Ramirez understands the deep connection between our environments and the importance of creating a space that reflects our personalities. Keep reading to learn more about CASALAU Design and the Hoboken local behind it.

How it Started

Laura at a private residence in New York City, photo provided by Pelle Waldron

Team HG met interior designer Laura Ramirez earlier this summer while capturing content for local jewelry brand Alessea by Mara (who is her neighbor and friend). Our backdrop for the shoot was Laura’s pristinely designed Hoboken apartment, where we were captivated by her clear talent and loving “live-in assistant”, Hank, her English bulldog. Laura’s space speaks clearly to who she is: elegant, warm, and welcoming with touches of personality everywhere – so naturally, we had to learn more.

Read More: This Hoboken Shoemaker Allows People to Design Their Own Shoes

Laura’s journey into interior design was kismet and, like most business owners, far from linear. Laura was born in Colombia but spent her childhood in Northern New Jersey, surrounded by inspiring locals and in proximity to the arts. She attended the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she majored in Fashion Business Management and went on to spend the next decade working in fashion merchandising and management, telling HG, “it was very business and people-focused, so my creative outlet became reimagining every apartment I lived in”. Laura humorously added that “many landlords can attest to the number of swapped fixtures and freshly painted walls we left behind (thankfully, they always kept them!).” 

After living in New York City for a couple of years, she reconnected with her now-husband, who was living in Hoboken at the time. Laura started spending weekends here and quickly fell in love with the neighborhood charm and sense of community. Now, 11 years later, Laura, her husband, and Hank the English Bulldog still feel beyond lucky to call Hoboken home. 

It wasn’t until the pandemic that the spark of becoming a business owner entered Laura’s mind. She was traveling through her home country of Colombia and spent time connecting with artisans and underserved communities. This sparked the fascination with sourcing handcrafted pieces and the stories behind them. As Laura shopped, something began to light up inside of her mind, telling HG, “What I thought would be a curated shop of collected goods evolved into interior design: a way to connect personal narratives with the work of artists and makers around the world.” Upon her return, Laura decided to enroll at The New York School of Interior Design and officially shift her career.

Behind the Business

During Laura’s continued studies, she was able to dive even deeper into the art form she already knew and loved. Her understanding of how spaces shape our mood and daily rituals became a driving force behind her love for interior design. Laura shared that “In our own home, my husband and I have experienced the calm of a decluttered space, the gentle prompts to uphold habits through intentional layouts, and the emotional safety and joy we feel walking through the door.” 

This ultimately led to the realization that she and her husband couldn’t be the only ones craving that from their environments, and soon CASALAU Design came to be in October of 2023. CASALAU Design is a studio built to guide clients toward their own versions of intentional living, beginning with the home. The name CASALAU is rooted in heritage and personal history. Casa (Spanish for “house”) honors Laura’s South American roots and nods to her fashion background, where ‘House of’ has long symbolized legacy and craftsmanship. Lau, her mother’s nickname for her, adds an intimate layer that grounds the brand in her personal story.

Over the years, Laura has been continuously inspired by cultures, people, and travels, adding “Whenever I have the opportunity to learn about traditions, what shapes the way people live, generational stories, or explore a new city’s architecture and regional craft, I try to absorb as much as I can and bring that influence into my work.” Much of these learnings are infused into CASALAU’s design ethos. 

Pandora Jewelry’s PR Salon, photo provided by Pelle Waldron

These deeply inspired experiences have landed CASALAU in the hands of happy clients throughout New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. She even had the opportunity to design Pandora Jewelry’s PR Salon in SoHo. Whether the project is residential or commercial, Laura’s vision knows no bounds. Laura describes her style as “personal” as it shifts depending on the client or brand to create something authentic for each client with one common thread: an artisan touch. Whether it’s “bespoke millwork crafted locally, a handblown glass fixture, or studio pottery- each project carries a human element that infuses warmth and character”. She said, “Interior design is so much more than a beautiful space for show; it’s about shaping environments that positively impact how we feel, think, and experience daily life. It’s creating spaces that foster rest, joy, and ease, support our intentions, and hold our most cherished moments.”

The CASALAU Process

Laura in her apartment, photo provided by Pelle Waldron

Laura and her team at CASALAU begin every project with an in-depth consultation, where they discuss clients’ goals, walk through the space, and start shaping design solutions together. From there, they refine the vision, make selections, and guide the process through to completion. CASALAU covers services including full service design, furnishing + styling, and design direction. 

One of Laura’s favorite parts of interior design is the sourcing process. She told HG, “I’m truly never not sourcing. As a designer, I want to bring unique pieces to each project, and that means I’m always on the lookout for makers with a point of view, tiny hole-in-the-wall shops, or artists I stumble upon online.” Adding how trade shows and antique stores play a big role in her process. There, Laura discovers incredible lighting fixtures, futnitues, and produce designers who “push boundaries”. Some of her local favorites include the Grand Bazaar, Chelsea Flea, and Red Bank Antiques, noting towns like Lambertville, New Jersey and Hudson, New York as “playgrounds for designers” thanks to their plethora of shops and markets. When Laura travels, she always packs an extra checked bag so she has room to bring home special pieces. 

All of these efforts contribute to the special CASALAU touch that comes from Laura’s hard work sourcing items. Sharing, “We love a space that feels collected rather than purchased in one click, so we almost always blend crafted pieces with vintage finds. Secondhand lighting, mirrors, furniture, art, and accessories are often more compelling than buying something mass-produced. They bring patina and personality- those small imperfections that make a room feel alive.”

Laura shares a common sentiment among thrifters and appreciators of secondhand. Saying that sourcing for her clients isnt just sustainable but also emotional. Adding “ Older pieces carry history, nostalgia, and a certain resonance you just can’t mass produce. They help ground our projects and give them that lived-in warmth clients always respond to.”

Locals can connect with CASALAU on Instagram for more behind-the-scenes looks or on the CASALAU website for more about services, inquiries, and future projects. 

See More: Toni’s Closet in Montclair Has Expanded, Thanks to a Local Eagle Scout

Follow @thehobokengirl on Instagram + TikTok for the latest Hoboken and Jersey City updates, sign up for our weekly newsletter here that shares everything you missed each week, and check out our events calendar, which has over 100+ events weekly to peruse.

The post This Hoboken Local Brings Inspired Interior Design to the City appeared first on Hoboken Girl.

Talented locals are what make the Hoboken + Jersey City communities so great. One local designer, Camila Aguilar, is turning the idea of jewelry design on its head with upcycled pieces that perfect the art of giving something old a new life. Her business, Slay By Mila Shop, has been spotted at several Hudson County pop-ups over the years, and it’s about time we learned more about the woman behind it all. Keep reading to learn more about Slay By Mila Shop and a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes process. 

How it Started

The “Mila” in Slay By Mila Shop comes from talented owner and designer, Camila Aguilar, whose handmade jewelry has been worn by over 500 happy customers since opening in 2019. Camila is a mom, wife, and entrepreneur whose designs have been popping up all over Hudson County + beyond. Camila has called Jersey City home for the last three years and loves being a small business here, adding, “It has been so inspiring. Jersey City is filled with small businesses that encourage me to keep going! The different fashion styles help me come up with different collections and inspirations.” Camila set down roots in New Jersey after her family migrated from Argentina when she was four years old. She spent time living in New York, Union City, and Newark, adding, “the different cultures have made me who I am.”

Read More: Meet Molly Craig, the Jersey City Artist Behind ‘Anomolly’

Like most entrepreneurial journeys, the path is never linear but often leads people exactly where they need to be. Camila’s entrepreneurial spark started back when she was pursuing her dream of becoming a makeup artist. She utilized her Instagram to put herself out there while simultaneously working as a server and bartender throughout New York City. On her off days, she would take makeup clients, do $10 oracle card readings on Instagram, telling HG with humor, “Let’s just say I could never stay still!”

In the midst of her journey, and as a multi-hyphenate creative, she started to develop a love for handmade artistry and design. As an artist in many ways, Camila loved the idea of being able to express her own form of art in wearable ways. Camila’s makeup artistry was already a form of wearable art, so she tried her hand at another form: handmade jewelry. 

In November 2019, Camila and her mother opened Slay By Mila Shop. As things got rolling, Camila and her mom would spend hours hunting in the colorful shops of the Garment District in New York City just to source the perfect beads and charms for their visions. Camila was working at the bar and come right home to work on the jewelry. 

As time went on, Slay By Mila Shop’s custom designs were where things started to pick up. Camila told HG, “I would create crystal bracelets that would help people with whichever interest or guidance they wanted from the properties of the crystal. I would intuitively pick out a crystal and design for my client that fits their aesthetic. That really started the ball rolling for our business.” Soon after, Camila took over Slay By Mila Shop on her own with deep gratitude for her mom’s help getting here, adding, “I’m so inspired and appreciative of my mom, because if it was not for her planting the seed and taking initiative, I would not be where I am today with my art + shop. Thanks to her, I’ve been able to sell over 500+ handmade items in the past 7 years.”

The Magic of Upcycling

The beauty of Slay By Mila Shop may be evident in the pieces themselves, but the story behind each design makes it even better. Camila’s favorite part of creating is sourcing materials. She often hits the thrift store or flea market to dig for second-hand mismatched jewelry, chains, and charms, creating designs from upcycled materials, giving them a second life, shouting out Hoboken Thrift Box and Cyn City Thrift for their support.

Camila has made rosaries, wired crystal moons, friendship bracelets, rings, earrings, bangles, necklaces, upcycled bags, keychains, phone charms, hair clips, and more, saying, “as much as I try to stick to a niche, I can’t!! I love all styles of jewelry! But it has to be handmade or Upcycled. I’ll try anything once is my motto!” She has even created bulk orders for party favors for birthdays and weddings. “I’ve dabbled in a lot over the last six years, and it’s very hard for me to say no to a new idea, so that’s what makes Slay By Mila Shop unique”, she said

Camila’s current obsession is creating upcycled accessorized handbags. From finding the perfect secondhand bag, sourcing patches, beads, charms, and funky keychains, Camila finds a way to bring it all together to become a cohesive work of art, or as she says, “slaying it up”, getting as creative as possible. Besides an affinity for upcycled bags, custom orders remain one of Camila’s favorite experiences. She told HG, “I truly levitate when clients let me freestyle and intuitively let me create a special bag for them. It’s a great feeling being trusted with your art.”

How to Shop

Slay By Mila Shop’s designs can be spotted at pop-ups throughout New Jersey and New York City, with frequent updates on Instagram (so be on the lookout). Those interested in custom designs can fill out Camila’s custom form or simply send her a DM. Camila shared with us that her new website will be finalized next year for easy online shopping and collaborations with local shops. 

See More: There’s a New Sewing Studio Coming to Montclair

Follow @thehobokengirl on Instagram + TikTok for the latest Hoboken and Jersey City updates, sign up for our weekly newsletter here that shares everything you missed each week, and check out our events calendar, which has over 100+ events weekly to peruse.

People

The post This Jersey City Resident Upcycles Jewelry appeared first on Hoboken Girl.

Jersey City residents are both resourceful and creative, to say the least. We also love a rare find. The locals here never cease to amaze us, and when it comes to creating sustainably, it’s even more exciting. Local artist Molly Craig is bringing the magic of upcycling to life with bolo ties, jewelry, and more, all sourced from materials being given a second life. Keep reading to learn more about Anomolly Shop and the Jersey City resident behind it all.

How It Started

Molly Craig grew up in Ridgewood, New Jersey, and has been a Jersey City resident since 2021. Back in Molly’s household, creativity was always encouraged. Her mom ran a beaded jewelry business and made heartfelt greeting cards for every occasion, utilizing her crafty talents and unknowingly inspiring her daughter along the way. From an early age, Molly found herself drawn to crafting, beading, and working with her hands, all of which shaped the path she’s on today.

Later, Molly went on to study marketing at Hofstra University before moving into the world of graphic design. She saw this as a way to blend her creativity with strategy. Molly’s talents led her to work at HOLST + LEE, a handmade jewelry company based in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, where she played a role in the creation of bold, statement pieces. After three years, Molly transitioned into freelance life to take her graphic design skills a step further. Since 2014, Molly has been working as a freelance graphic designer and has had clients such as her previous employer, HOLST + LEE, and other small businesses and corporate clients.

Read More: Meet Your Neighbors: 5 Hudson County Locals With One-of-a-Kind Careers

While Molly loves her graphic design work, she was itching to have an element of non-digital creation in her life. Back in 2020, she started Anomolly Shop, a play on the word “anomaly” as in something that is unusual or unexpected. The goal was showcase her handmade designs that deserve to be shared with the world. As time went on, she began to find her niche. After finding a vintage cowboy hat brooch that caught her eye, she decided to turn it into a bolo tie as a gift for her boyfriend, which ignited a new wave of inspiration. Molly told us, “It was so much fun bringing new life to something old and forgotten. After that first bolo tie, I was hooked”.

Behind The Bling

Now, Anomolly Shop sells a variety of handcrafted designs. One of the most fascinating elements of Molly’s work has to be her eye for upcycling and turning what some may consider “trash” into treasure. Her particular fascination with bolo ties and cowboy aesthetic is reminiscent of times past and is reflected in all of her work. From vintage upcycled bolo ties, scarf slides, vintage rings, and beaded jewelry, every item from Anomolly Shop is crafted with care.

Molly shared, “ I’ve spent countless hours hunting through vintage and antique shops for brooches, clip-on earrings, and broken treasures that can be reimagined as bolo tie centerpieces. I’ve always been drawn to Western wear and the cowboy motif. I even have a tattoo of a cowgirl riding a horse on my arm. To me, cowboy culture represents a wilder time when life wasn’t so predictable. It embodies a spirit of freedom, resilience, and self-reliance that feels rare today.”

See More: Hudson County Artists to Know + Collect

Molly’s travels have played a big role in her design inspiration. She loves adventuring around new cities and exploring different second-hand and vintage shops to see what the locals wear. Sharing with HG, “I have found a lot of my vintage parts in Utah, Arizona (In the 1970s, the Bolo was declared the official neckwear of Arizona), and recently found a bunch on a trip abroad to Turkey!”

Aside from Molly’s jewelry and accessories, she loves to design intricate beaded Mosaics. Right now, she has a piece on display in the DS Special Projects show, Down the Block, a group show located below Andco North at 222 Ninth Street in Jersey City.

How to Shop

Locals have likely caught Molly at one of the many pop-ups around town. Next up, she will be at the Deep Space Miniature Shop and Riverview Holiday Market on December 6th. For those shopping around town, Anomolly Shop also holds a space inside Cranky Angel at 333 Newark Avenue in Jersey City. To follow along with where Molly will be popping up next, or to order a custom, follow @anomollyshop on Instagram or check out www.anomollyshop.com.

Follow @thehobokengirl on Instagram + TikTok for the latest Hoboken and Jersey City updates, sign up for our weekly newsletter here that shares everything you missed each week, and check out our events calendar, which has over 100+ events weekly to peruse.

The post Meet Molly Craig, the Jersey City Artist Behind Anomolly Shop appeared first on Hoboken Girl.

The next Hoboken City Council lineup will be decided in a runoff election this December. After the results from Election Day 2025 did not see specific candidates receiving majority of the total votes, the top six candidates — Steve Firestone, Pete Keeling, Caitlin Layson, Nicole Magana, Joe Quintero, and Liz Urtecho — will be voted on again by residents on December 2nd, 2025. Here’s more about each runoff candidate from The Hoboken Girl’s previous conversation with all of Hoboken’s City Council contenders.

Steve Firestone

The Hoboken Girl: Council must often work with a Mayor they may disagree with. If you don’t align with the Mayor on a major issue, how will you engage, negotiate, or push back constructively? Do you have examples of how you have done so in the past at work or in political settings, if applicable?

Steve Firestone: As Zoning Board Chairman in Hoboken, I have led the push to have civility and transparency as watchwords for Commissioners. You can disagree with someone else without being disagreeable and I think all residents and owners that come before the Zoning Board now are treated with respect. My approach to working with the next Mayor of Hoboken will be to try to find areas of common ground to ensure that we can make progress happen for Hoboken residents. There are some in Hoboken that engage in performative politics, hurling insults at others to increase their own status or to help achieve a particular political objective. My primary responsibility to Hoboken residents is to be a public servant first and foremost. That means collaborating with others both publicly and privately to find solutions to thorny issues. It involves listening more than speaking when needed and acting to uphold the civility of our engagement at all times.  

HG: Hudson County politics has long faced concerns about pay-to-play and insider influence. What specific reforms will you champion (e.g. contracting rules, campaign finance limits, independent oversight, stronger OPRA compliance)?

SF: Hoboken needs both its elected officials and City Hall to act transparently and with integrity. As a City Council At-Large member, I would advocate for more severe penalties for candidates who violate both state and local election laws. I would also seek to move Hoboken away from using the redevelopment process as a substitute for the lack of City Council engagement and adoption of a Master Plan. The redevelopment process lacks transparency and winds up increasing the cost for new development in Hoboken. By holding open public meetings whenever redevelopment is necessary and regularly adopting a Master Plan, the City Council can ensure that voices throughout the community are heard and minimize the incentives for politicians to use the redevelopment process to get campaign contributions.   

HG: How will you balance competing priorities for the city while working without increasing costs for residents?

SF: Hoboken has become a very expensive place to call home as all of us have felt the results of the post-pandemic increase in inflation. While inflation has come down in recent years, the cumulative effect of it has taken a toll on many Hoboken residents. Hoboken also has much better amenities today than when I first moved here in 1997, making it a very desirable place for people at all stages of life. As a finance professor, I plan to take a hard look at every revenue and expense line item in the budget to see how we can do better. Hoboken has the lowest tax rate in Hudson County, so there is a track record of fiscal responsibility. However, we need more City Council members that take responsibility for managing the budget in a fiscally prudent way and can distinguish between line items that are true needs versus things that are just nice to have. This will be my North Star in the budgeting process and will help to keep costs down for all residents. 

HG: Many residents complain about the high cost of housing in Hoboken, some even claim they have been priced out. What is your opinion and what methods, if any, would you support to address the situation?

SF: On Hoboken’s Zoning Board of Adjustment, I see every day the costs of the affordable housing crisis in Hoboken. Residents come before the ZBA for variance relief because they have growing families and are faced with the challenge of either staying in a small space with a bigger family or having to move out of Hoboken for more room. Council members Jabbour, Quintero and Cohen have been leaders in strengthening some of Hoboken’s rent control protections so that residents are not faced with unconscionable rent increases every year. Rent control can be an effective short term solution for ensuring that residents are not priced out of Hoboken, but it does not address the lack of supply of affordable housing options. City Council has taken some positive steps towards providing workforce housing with garage B, Adams Street, and other projects around Hoboken, but not everyone on City Council was in favor of these projects. . Hoboken also has an affordable housing policy that calls for 10% affordable units in new construction. We should look at whether that percentage allows us to really achieve our affordable housing objectives in Hoboken and whether we might be willing to trade off higher density in some areas for more affordable units. There are some transit-oriented development strategies that I have seen used to great effect in other parts of the county that may have applicability to Hoboken. We did not get to an affordable housing crisis overnight and we will not get out of it overnight either. However, by taking short term steps to strengthen rent control protections and longer term steps to bring affordable housing supply online, we will ensure that Hoboken can grow in a sustainable way. 

HG: Hoboken’s flooding issues are well-known and the City has made efforts to mitigate the impact through the flood gates, resiliency parks, and other projects. What else would you do to address this problem?

SF: Hoboken’s unique geographic characteristics make it hard to ever completely eliminate flooding. However, I think many residents would agree that Hoboken floods today a lot less (or at least a lot less severely) than it has in the past. I have played a very small part in that as a member of Hoboken’s Zoning Board. We frequently look to developments to install green roofs and provide water retention facilities on site to ensure that stormwater runoff can be slowly released into the pipes, mitigating flooding from storm events. On a macro level, Mayor Bhalla and City Council Members have made some real progress in the effort to mitigate flooding by constructing Northwest Resiliency Park and building environmental sustainability to the infrastructure of the city through the rain gardens on Washington Street. Rebuild by Design has been a huge success in this regard. The additional flood pumps have also played a crucial role in our ability to mitigate the impact of rain events. As a City Council At Large Member, I hope to continue this important work to ensure that we make progress each and every year towards becoming a City where our desire for environmental sustainability can meet the moment of flood mitigation. 

HG: Residents complain about traffic congestion and general disruption as a result of constant construction. How would you respond?

SF: Ever since I bought my first apartment in Hoboken in 1997 on Bloomfield Street, Hoboken has always been a place where residents try to improve their homes. So it is not unusual that there will always be some level of construction activity. However, what we have seen more of lately is a result of the systematic effort that Hoboken has engaged in to replace aging water infrastructure through Rebuild by Design and, to a lesser extent, more housing construction near critical choke points in the city’s transportation system. Rebuild by Design has been a huge leap forward for Hoboken in making the city more environmentally resilient. We need better coordination between different actors like PSE&G, NJ DEP, and City Hall to ensure that we minimize the impact of these projects on Hoboken residents. We also need to do more to ensure that developers pay to upgrade infrastructure when their developments will lead to higher and more intensive use in the form of additional residents.  

HG: Where do you stand on the growth of chain retailers? What tools, if any, would you consider to support local businesses and maintain Hoboken’s small-town feel?

SF: What I see when I walk down Washington Street is too many vacant storefronts. This is a major concern to me and I would like to see it become easier to start new retail businesses in Hoboken. Hoboken will always attract retail businesses that appeal to the character of the city’s residents. It is in our DNA and we love supporting these small businesses to help them grow and become successful. There is nothing inherently wrong with having some chain retailers as part of Hoboken’s business community. I see the likelihood of Hoboken turning into an outdoor version of Short Hills Mall as close to zero. The solution is to make sure we have enough programs in place for small businesses that speak more directly to Hoboken’s unique character to begin and thrive.  

HG: Many residents have expressed hygienic concerns with the amount of dog feces on Hoboken’s sidewalks; would you address this problem, and if so, how? And how do you feel the City of Hoboken has handled it currently?

SF: Hoboken has always been a dog-friendly place. Residents love their pups and take them all over town for walks, including to Hoboken’s many excellent dog parks. It is unfortunate that some owners do not show courtesy and respect for others by picking up after their dogs. Hoboken already has some stiff penalties for owners that do not comply with the law, but it is rarely enforced because it is so hard to catch people in the act. There are a number of websites out there that have tried public shaming by posting videos of security cameras. This obviously is not the best way to address the problem, but it likely does have the effect of making more owners aware that their violations are noticed by the broader community. Hoboken also needs to direct trash collectors on Washington Street to also address dog litter when they are doing regular trash pickup. We should also require business owners to hose down the sidewalks in front of their properties regularly. This will not address every instance of dog litter, but it will ensure that high pedestrian-traffic areas will be regularly cleaned. At the end of the day, we also need to do more to educate dog owners on their responsibilities, which might include more signage in populated areas and accessible dog waste bag stations.  

HG: Many residents complain about litter and other debris on sidewalks, especially on Washington Street. How would you address this as a Council member?

SF: Washington Street is one of the best Main Streets in the United States. This jewel only shines brightly though when it is clean and tidy. It is the responsibility of every owner in Hoboken to take care of the sidewalk in front of their property. Many residents do this regularly, showing how much care they place in being a good community steward. We already have regular trash collection and street sweeping on Washington Street, but more can be done. We should look at increasing the frequency of trash pickup and strengthen the penalties for businesses that litter. In addition, there are many poorly functioning trash cans that need repair. We also need to better educate residents and non-residents who frequent Washington Street on the downside of leaving litter and debris on the sidewalks when they are not supposed to.

HG: While Hoboken’s public safety director has publicly stated that crime is down, many residents report feeling unsafe and the City Council has moved to expand the police force. Do you think Hoboken has done enough to make residents feel safe?  What do you suggest?

SF: Crime in Hoboken is down in Hoboken and we owe our public safety officials a debt of gratitude for the work that they do every day. Just because the statistics say that crime is down, it does not mean that people always feel safe. We see a lot of near-misses in Hoboken, with e-bike riders sometimes blowing through red lights and going the wrong way on a one-way street. As a resident of Washington Street, I have experienced this first hand and understand how a near miss might look like we are allowing a culture of lawlessness to take hold. We need to make it easier for people to report these near misses so that our public safety officials can allocate community policing resources more effectively. Hoboken created a test-and-vest ordinance which attempted to get at the issue with e-bike riders, but many of these folks are transient. Who is riding may change month to month. We need to look at limiting the total number of e-bike delivery riders and effectively update our test-and-vest ordinance to make it more enforceable. Another element of whether residents feel safe is the situation with the unhoused population in Hoboken. People see lines around shelters and assume that this contributes to crime or their feelings about public safety. The unhoused population is a situation that every city deals with, not just Hoboken. We need to establish pathways for these individuals to get the help that they need, whether it be shelter, food or satisfying mental health needs. The Hoboken Shelter has done amazing work in the community in this area with few resources. We need to better coordinate all the stakeholders, including the hospital and other organizations that provide social services to ensure that this important population gets lifted up.  

HG: Many residents expressed that the city lacks accommodating infrastructure for the elderly and disabled (i.e. care facilities, benches, ramps, and handicapped parking). What, if any, initiatives would you support as a City Councilperson to make the city more senior and disability-friendly

SF: Hoboken is one of the most walkable cities I have ever seen but not all residents have the ability to walk a half mile to get to ShopRite or Kings. Benches and sheltered resting spots are a key element for seniors that are active walkers. We also have The Hop bus service that runs different routes through Hoboken that many seniors take. Council Quintero has been advocating for re-orienting the Hop service such that routes are more east-west and north-south and run with greater frequency. This is an important part of the solution. I would also like to see a public-private partnership between Hop service and local buildings that offer shuttle bus services that would allow seniors to jump on at different locations. These shuttle buses often run during peak congestion hours but are not in use during off hours. During off hours, there might be the opportunity to have some of these shuttle buses redeployed to assist senior pickups as seniors do not usually have to travel during peak congestion hours and might strongly prefer not to. We also need to work with NJ Transit to establish the Madison/Monroe route and locate a new light rail stop at 15th Street. Hoboken needs greater ability for its residents to get around the city and taking steps like these will make it easier for Hoboken’s seniors to age in place.  

HG: What is your experience serving the residents of your Ward + advocating for your positions before becoming a candidate?

SF: I have served Hoboken and its residents for six years on the Zoning Board of Adjustment. Throughout my service, I have engaged with residents frequently and have tried to bring a service orientation to the important work of the Board. I was also given the opportunity to take part in the Transportation Committee that was formed after the first election of Mayor Bhalla that advocated for safer streets and better pedestrian and bicycle access. I was also an early advocate for acquisition of the Union Dry Dock property, allowing Hoboken to better connect its amazing waterfront and provide both passive and active recreation opportunities for Hoboken residents.  

HG: Who is another local government official you respect + admire?

SF: I have a great deal of respect and admiration for Council Member Phil Cohen. Phil and I served together on Hoboken’s Zoning Board of Adjustment and I appreciated how he brought his intelligence and excellent collaboration skills to bear. We did not agree on every application, but I always respected the thought he put into it and the dedication he had to making Hoboken a better place. Phil is able to have respectful disagreements and always maintains the civility needed to work with the other person to find common ground on other issues. He embodies everything we look for in a public servant. 

HG: What is a project or a problem that you are specifically looking forward to working on if elected?

SF: While Hoboken maintains a strong credit rating, it has had a history of managing its finances on an ad hoc basis. Budgets are not usually presented until well into the fiscal year, making it almost impossible for City Council Members to know the real impact of their votes on contracts and other important budget line items. City Council should demand that the Mayor present their budget draft for the upcoming year no later than December 31st each year and it should be the first thing on the Council’s agenda to work on in January. The State also needs to be more collaborative in this process by providing more timely guidance. But process improvements are only half of the story. Hoboken elected officials continue to spend down the budget surplus because they have not addressed the real problem of revenues and expenses not adding up. As a Professor of finance at Drew University, I know the ins and outs of financial statements and am prepared to make tough calls where necessary to ensure that Hoboken is operating in a financially sustainable way for the next generation.

HG: Any other final notes/thoughts for HG readers about your candidacy, share here:

SF: When I returned to Hoboken in 2016, I joined a local group called the Hoboken Harriers. I had never run more than 5 miles at once at the time. Through this group I was able to make lifelong friends and have the courage to start running greater distances, eventually running the TCS NYC Marathon twice. I never thought when I started running around Hoboken that I would be running for office one day instead of running the waterfront. However, Hoboken is truly a special place that allows all of us to grow into the best versions of ourselves. I would like to keep that momentum going as a City Council Member that consistently listens to others and acts in the best interest of residents. 

Read More: Hoboken Mayoral Runoff Election 2025: Meet the Candidates

Pete Keeling

The Hoboken Girl: Council must often work with a Mayor they may disagree with. If you don’t align with the Mayor on a major issue, how will you engage, negotiate, or push back constructively? Do you have examples of how you have done so in the past at work or in political settings, if applicable?

Pete Keeling: As a small business owner, I have learned that collaboration does not mean agreeing on everything. If I do not align with the Mayor on a major issue, my first step would be to listen and understand their reasoning. Then I would clearly explain my position and why I believe it benefits Hoboken residents. What I will not do is get caught up in the bickering and high school politics we have seen too often in recent years.

HG: Hudson County politics has long faced concerns about pay-to-play and insider influence. What specific reforms will you champion (e.g. contracting rules, campaign finance limits, independent oversight, stronger OPRA compliance)?

PK: I am not a career politician. I raised my hand to run because I want to support my community, not because this is a career path for me. I do not have family or friend connections at City Hall. I am running as an independent voice who will measure success by how many people I can help, not by putting money in my pocket. Hudson County politics has a long history of pay to play and insider influence, and Hoboken deserves better. I would push for reforms that bring real transparency and accountability. That includes stricter campaign finance rules so developers and contractors cannot buy influence, stronger pay to play protections, and making sure city contracts are awarded on merit, not connections. I also believe in full OPRA compliance so residents and the press can see how decisions are being made, and I support independent oversight on major contracts. Hoboken families and small businesses should know their government is working for them, not insiders with the right last name.

HG: How will you balance competing priorities for the city while working without increasing costs for residents?

PK: Balancing competing priorities starts with being honest about what residents need most and making sure every dollar is spent effectively. I am not a career politician, so I am not looking to grow government for the sake of it. I want to deliver results that people actually feel in their daily lives. As a small business owner, I have managed budgets where every expense has to be justified. I would bring that same mindset to City Hall: scrutinize spending, cut waste, and demand accountability from outside vendors and contractors. We can do more with the resources we already have by streamlining processes, modernizing city services, and making sure projects are prioritized based on impact, not politics. Most importantly, my decisions will always be guided by how they affect the families and small businesses of Hoboken. My goal is to make the city work better without raising the cost of living for the people who call Hoboken home.

HG: Many residents complain about the high cost of housing in Hoboken, some even claim they have been priced out. What is your opinion and what methods, if any, would you support to address the situation?

PK: The cost of housing in Hoboken is a real problem. I hear it every day from families, young professionals, and seniors who feel like they are being priced out of their own community. If Hoboken becomes a place only the wealthy can afford, we lose the character and diversity that make this city special. I am not a career politician, and I am not tied to insider interests. I raised my hand to run because I want Hoboken to remain livable for regular people like me. That means supporting policies that keep housing attainable. We need stronger protections for renters, including enforcement against predatory landlord practices and unfair rent hikes. We should also look at ways to expand affordable housing opportunities through smart development that balances growth with community needs. At the same time, we must hold landlords and developers accountable and make sure city policies are not written for a handful of insiders but for the people who actually live here. My measure of success will be how many Hoboken families can stay and thrive here, not how many luxury towers go up

HG: Hoboken’s flooding issues are well-known and the City has made efforts to mitigate the impact through the flood gates, resiliency parks, and other projects. What else would you do to address this problem?

PK: Flooding is one of the biggest threats to Hoboken, and while resiliency parks and flood gates are steps in the right direction, they do not go far enough. This issue does not just disrupt residents, it devastates our small businesses. Every time there is a flood or a water main break, businesses lose days of revenue, they face added costs for bottled water or cleanup, and many have had to make heavy investments in their own infrastructure just to cope with the city’s delinquency. That is not fair, and it is not sustainable. As a council member, I would push for a full audit of Hoboken’s plumbing and water system to identify which mains are most at risk of bursting. We need a clear plan that prioritizes those fixes, not a vague 20 year roadmap. This has to be tackled in the next 4 years. I would also fight to make sure the city communicates better with businesses and residents during emergencies, and that we are holding contractors and utilities accountable for timely repairs.

HG: Residents complain about traffic congestion and general disruption as a result of constant construction. How would you respond?

PK: Residents are right to be frustrated. The constant construction in Hoboken has created traffic congestion, noise, and real disruption to daily life. As a small business owner, I also see the impact it has on storefronts that rely on foot traffic and accessibility. When sidewalks are blocked or streets are jammed, local businesses pay the price. I am not a career politician and I do not have insider ties at City Hall. I am running to bring common sense and accountability to issues exactly like this. The city needs a coordinated construction management plan that schedules projects in phases, not all at once, and holds contractors accountable for staying on timeline. We should also require better communication with residents and businesses so people know what to expect and can plan accordingly. At the end of the day, development and infrastructure upgrades are necessary, but they should never come at the cost of making Hoboken unlivable for residents or unsustainable for small businesses. My focus would be on smarter planning and stronger oversight so we reduce disruption while still moving the city forward.

HG: Where do you stand on the growth of chain retailers? What tools, if any, would you consider to support local businesses and maintain Hoboken’s small-town feel?

PK: Unlike the rest of the candidates, I do not just say “support small business,” I have built my entire campaign around it. I am the only candidate for City Council who has put forward specific legislation to preserve what is left of Washington Street and to make Hoboken a place where small businesses can thrive again. Chain retailers will always try to come in, but what makes Hoboken special is its small-town feel built on independent businesses. To protect that, I have a three-point plan. First, a vacant property registration ordinance that holds speculative landlords accountable when they keep storefronts empty. Second, grants for Hoboken residents opening their first brick-and-mortar business, to help combat the exploding costs of commercial leases. Third, a complete overhaul of the Hoboken Business Alliance, which needs to get back to its core mission of enhancing small business, not padding commercial landlords’ profits. I am not a career politician. I am a small business owner who knows firsthand how hard it is to open and survive in Hoboken. My main priority on City Council will be building a thriving small business community, because without that, we lose the very character and identity of our city.

HG: Many residents have expressed hygienic concerns with the amount of dog feces on Hoboken’s sidewalks; would you address this problem, and if so, how? And how do you feel the City of Hoboken has handled it currently?

PK: Right now, Hoboken’s approach is mostly reactive. We put up signs, we hand out the occasional fine, but there is no consistent enforcement or creative strategy. I would push for a stronger enforcement plan, with targeted patrols in problem areas and real penalties for repeat offenders. At the same time, we need to make it easier for people to comply: more bag stations, more trash cans, and better public awareness campaigns.

HG: Many residents complain about litter and other debris on sidewalks, especially on Washington Street. How would you address this as a Council member?

PK: Of all the days not to collect trash in Hoboken, Saturday makes the least sense. That is when our restaurants, bars, and small businesses are busiest, and it is also when we welcome the most visitors. Leaving trash piled up on Washington Street through Saturday night is bad for hygiene, bad for business, and bad for our city’s reputation. At a minimum, we should have a Hoboken Business Alliance–funded collection route for commercial areas on Saturday nights to keep our main corridor clean. Beyond that, I believe we need to take a hard look at our sanitation contract. Right now we are paying way over market rates to outsource services that we could handle in-house. Hoboken already has the trucks, and bringing this work back under city control would not only save taxpayers money, it would allow us to employ Hoboken residents instead of sending that money to an outside contractor. That is the kind of common-sense reform that would both improve services and strengthen our community.

HG: While Hoboken’s public safety director has publicly stated that crime is down, many residents report feeling unsafe and the City Council has moved to expand the police force. Do you think Hoboken has done enough to make residents feel safe?  What do you suggest?

PK: Public safety is about more than statistics. Crime may be down on paper, but if residents feel unsafe walking home at night or uneasy about letting their kids play outside, then the job is not done. I hear these concerns regularly when I speak with neighbors, and it is clear that Hoboken needs to do more. Expanding the police force is one step, but it cannot be the only answer. We also need smarter deployment of officers in the areas and at the times residents feel most vulnerable. Visibility and presence matter. We should also be addressing quality-of-life issues like shoplifting, which hurts our small businesses and often goes unenforced. Business owners need to know the city has their back, and that repeat offenders will be held accountable. As a small business owner, I know that safety also affects commerce. If people do not feel comfortable on Washington Street or in our neighborhoods at night, it hurts our local economy. My approach will always be resident-first: make people feel as safe as the statistics say they are, and do it in a way that strengthens community rather than just reacting after the fact.

HG: Many residents expressed that the city lacks accommodating infrastructure for the elderly and disabled (i.e. care facilities, benches, ramps, and handicapped parking). What, if any, initiatives would you support as a City Councilperson to make the city more senior and disability-friendly?

PK: Hoboken has done a lot of planning around parks, development, and nightlife, but too often our seniors and neighbors with disabilities are left out of the conversation. A truly inclusive city is one that works for everyone, not just the young and mobile. As a Council member, I would push for practical, common-sense improvements that make daily life easier. That means adding more benches along Washington Street and throughout our neighborhoods, increasing handicapped parking, and ensuring curb cuts and ramps are not just built but properly maintained. I would also support incentives and requirements for new developments to include accessible design from the start, rather than as an afterthought. On the services side, we need to take a hard look at how the city supports senior care facilities and community programs. Our aging population deserves access to resources that allow them to stay in Hoboken rather than being forced out.

HG: What is your experience serving the residents of your Ward + advocating for your positions before becoming a candidate?

PK: I raised my hand to run because I am an inherently curious person, and when my neighbors have issues, they often come to me. I serve as president of my HOA, where I have worked to bring people together, solve problems, and make sure residents feel heard. That experience showed me how important it is to have someone who listens and takes action. As I have built relationships with more and more small business owners in Hoboken, I have seen firsthand the challenges they face. I hope they can trust me to be their voice in City Hall. I am not a career politician, I am a neighbor and a small business owner who believes government should be responsive, transparent, and focused on helping people

HG: Who is another local government official you respect + admire?

PK: One local official I truly admire is Jerry, our City Clerk. I have never met a person who does not have the utmost respect for him and the work he does. It is often thankless, but he carries it out with professionalism, fairness, and consistency. What I admire most is that he treats everyone with respect regardless of politics, and he takes pride in making sure the public process runs the way it should. That kind of dedication is exactly what builds trust in local government, and it is something I hope to model as a Council member.

HG: What is a project or a problem that you are specifically looking forward to working on if elected?

PK: The project I am most looking forward to is preserving what is left of Washington Street and leading our small businesses into the future. Washington Street is the heart of Hoboken, but too many storefronts are empty and too many long-time businesses are struggling. If we lose that, we lose the very character of our city. I have built my campaign around small business because I know firsthand how difficult it is to open and survive here. I am the only candidate to propose specific legislation to address the problem: a vacant property registration ordinance to hold speculative landlords accountable, grants for Hoboken residents opening their first brick-and-mortar business, and a complete overhaul of the Hoboken Business Alliance so it actually supports small business rather than commercial landlords. For me, this is not just a project, it is the centerpiece of why I am running. If elected, I want my legacy to be a Hoboken where small businesses thrive, where Washington Street is full of life again, and where residents feel proud to support local.

HG: Any other final notes/thoughts for HG readers about your candidacy, share here:

PK: City Hall should not be an ivory tower shrouded in secrecy. Its only purpose should be to serve the community and make life better for everyone who calls Hoboken home. That is why I raised my hand to run, and that is why I hope you will trust me to be your voice on City Council.

Caitlin Layson

The Hoboken Girl: Council must often work with a Mayor they may disagree with. If you don’t align with the Mayor on a major issue, how will you engage, negotiate, or push back constructively? Do you have examples of how you have done so in the past at work or in political settings, if applicable?

Caitlin Layson: As a former special education teacher in Hoboken public schools, I learned early on that progress often depends on how well you collaborate with people who see things differently. In education, the needs and opportunities of students come first, and that sometimes means working through differences with administrators, colleagues, and even parents who have competing priorities. When disagreements arose, I had to listen closely, identify where we shared common ground, and keep advocating for my students until we reached solutions. That same approach applies to City Council. If I disagree with the Mayor on a major issue, I will not let that disagreement become a roadblock. Instead, I will focus on what we both care about: Hoboken residents, and use that as the foundation to find solutions. At the same time, I am not afraid to push back respectfully when necessary. For example, as a special education teacher I often had to fight for students to receive the services and support they were legally entitled to, even when it was unpopular or inconvenient for the system. Those experiences taught me to be firm but collaborative, persistent but respectful, which is exactly the balance required when serving on City Council.

HG: Hudson County politics has long faced concerns about pay-to-play and insider influence. What specific reforms will you champion (e.g. contracting rules, campaign finance limits, independent oversight, stronger OPRA compliance)?

CL: Hudson County’s history with pay-to-play and insider influence has eroded public trust, and rebuilding that trust must be a priority. On City Council, I would champion reforms that make government more transparent, accountable, and resistant to backroom politics. That means strengthening our pay-to-play laws to ensure city contracts are awarded based on merit, not political connections; expanding campaign finance limits to reduce the outsized role of large donors; and creating independent oversight structures so compliance is not left solely in the hands of those with a stake in the outcome.

I also support stronger OPRA compliance, because residents deserve timely and complete access to public records without unnecessary hurdles. As someone who worked as a public school teacher, I know that accountability is built day by day, through openness and consistency. The reforms I’ll push for are aimed at one goal: building a culture of fairness and transparency where decisions are made in the open, not behind closed doors.

HG: How will you balance competing priorities for the city while working without increasing costs for residents?

CL: Balancing competing priorities without increasing costs for residents requires focus and resourcefulness. As a special education teacher, I often managed a full caseload of students with individualized learning plans, each requiring different levels of support. With limited time and resources, I had to ensure every student received what they needed without shortchanging others. That experience taught me how to prioritize, adapt, and maximize available resources, the same skills I will bring to Council to ensure city services meet residents’ needs without raising costs. On the City Council, I would apply that same mindset by focusing on initiatives that deliver the greatest benefit to the most residents, pursuing outside funding from city, county, state, and federal sources, and ensuring efficiency in all city operations. My commitment is to advance Hoboken’s priorities responsibly, so residents see tangible results without being burdened by higher costs.

HG: Many residents complain about the high cost of housing in Hoboken, some even claim they have been priced out. What is your opinion and what methods, if any, would you support to address the situation?

CL: The high cost of housing in Hoboken is a real and pressing concern. Many residents, especially families, seniors, and long-term community members, feel priced out of the city they call home. In Hoboken, students come from a wide range of socioeconomic backgrounds, and many families face significant housing pressures. I taught students whose parents worked multiple jobs or long hours just to afford rent, while others from lower-income households had to make difficult trade-offs between housing, childcare, and other basic needs. As a renter in Hoboken myself, I experience these challenges firsthand—the stress of rising rents, limited options, and the uncertainty of finding a stable home. This personal experience deepens my understanding of what residents face daily and fuels my commitment to ensuring housing remains accessible for all. Housing instability in all of these cases affected students’ attendance, focus, and overall academic progress, highlighting how the high cost of housing impacts family stability and children’s educational outcomes across socioeconomic lines. To address this, I support a multi-pronged approach that balances development with affordability. This includes incentivizing the creation and preservation of affordable housing, protecting tenants through stronger rent regulations and just-cause eviction policies, and exploring creative partnerships with non-profits and developers to increase housing options without overwhelming the market. I also believe in ensuring new development includes units that are accessible to middle- and lower-income residents, so Hoboken remains a city where people at all stages of life can live and thrive.

HG: Hoboken’s flooding issues are well-known and the City has made efforts to mitigate the impact through the flood gates, resiliency parks, and other projects. What else would you do to address this problem?

CL: Hoboken has taken important steps to address flooding with projects like resiliency parks and flood gates, but there is still more we can do to make sure residents are prepared and protected. I support expanding communication during emergencies so that all residents, from schools to small businesses, get timely, accurate updates when flooding or water main breaks occur. I also back the idea of creating clear action plans that help families know exactly what to do in an emergency, and building partnerships with local businesses and nonprofits so resources like clean water can be distributed quickly when needed. Finally, I believe we must stay focused on completing the Rebuild by Design project to make sure Hoboken is ready for future storms and the challenges of climate change.

HG: Residents complain about traffic congestion and general disruption as a result of constant construction. How would you respond?

CL: I know how disruptive constant construction has been for residents, and I support improving both coordination and communication to ease the burden. We need real-time updates, maps, and clear timelines so people know what to expect and can plan around road closures. The City should also limit how many private projects can close streets at the same time as major public works. And by coordinating better with the County and platforms like Google Maps and Waze, we can make sure information is accurate and consistent. These steps will help reduce unnecessary disruption while ensuring Hoboken keeps moving forward with critical infrastructure improvements.

HG: Where do you stand on the growth of chain retailers? What tools, if any, would you consider to support local businesses and maintain Hoboken’s small-town feel?

CL: I believe Hoboken’s local businesses are the heart of our community, and we must protect the city’s unique character. While chain retailers can provide convenience, it’s important they don’t displace small, locally-owned shops. I strongly support efforts to help local businesses thrive, including grants, technical assistance, fair access to storefronts, and thoughtful zoning and permitting policies that manage where chains can operate. Making it easier for new businesses to open and succeed—through streamlined permitting, transparent requirements, and clear guidance—ensures entrepreneurs can navigate city processes with confidence. By balancing support for local businesses with responsible growth, Hoboken can maintain its small-town feel while also serving as a hub for innovation and opportunity.

HG: Many residents have expressed hygienic concerns with the amount of dog feces on Hoboken’s sidewalks; would you address this problem, and if so, how? And how do you feel the City of Hoboken has handled it currently?

CL: Residents’ concerns about cleanliness, particularly dog waste on sidewalks, are important and need more effective solutions. I support improving the city’s maintenance efforts, including investing in better equipment like portable power-washing units to keep commercial areas clean and inviting. While the city has made some efforts through regular street cleaning, more proactive and consistent measures are needed to ensure sidewalks remain sanitary for everyone. By combining enhanced tools with reliable maintenance, Hoboken can be cleaner, safer, and more enjoyable for residents, visitors, and local businesses alike.

HG: Many residents complain about litter and other debris on sidewalks, especially on Washington Street. How would you address this as a Council member?

CL: Litter and debris on sidewalks, especially on busy streets like Washington Street, have a real impact on residents’ quality of life. I would support a multi-pronged approach that increases the frequency of street cleaning while investing in tools and equipment, like portable power-washing units, to keep commercial areas clean. This should also include conducting an inventory of broken or damaged trash cans and receptacles to prioritize their replacement, while ensuring existing bins are regularly cleaned. In addition, public awareness campaigns and partnerships with local businesses can help encourage residents and visitors to take pride in our streets. By combining stronger maintenance with community engagement, we can keep Hoboken’s sidewalks cleaner, safer, and more welcoming for everyone.

HG: While Hoboken’s public safety director has publicly stated that crime is down, many residents report feeling unsafe and the City Council has moved to expand the police force. Do you think Hoboken has done enough to make residents feel safe?  What do you suggest?

CL: While official crime statistics show a decrease, I understand that many residents still feel unsafe. I strongly support the expansion of our police force, which will allow officers to engage more deeply in community policing and build stronger relationships with residents. This approach should be paired with better support for our first responders, the expansion of the blue light system to the waterfront, and exploring additional coverage in city parks. I also back improving lighting, maintaining safe public spaces, and sharing timely crime updates so residents feel informed and secure. By combining a larger, well-supported police presence with proactive community engagement, Hoboken can ensure everyone feels safe and confident moving through the city.

HG: Many residents expressed that the city lacks accommodating infrastructure for the elderly and disabled (i.e. care facilities, benches, ramps, and handicapped parking). What, if any, initiatives would you support as a City Councilperson to make the city more senior and disability-friendly?

CL: Hoboken must ensure its streets, sidewalks, and public spaces are safe and accessible for seniors and residents with disabilities. I support a citywide program to enhance and maintain infrastructure for seniors and residents with disabilities. This would include adding and maintaining benches, ramps, and handicapped parking, regularly auditing sidewalks and public spaces for accessibility, and quickly addressing maintenance issues as they arise. By prioritizing these improvements and gathering feedback from the community, Hoboken can become a safer, more navigable, and welcoming city for all residents.

HG: What is your experience serving the residents of your Ward + advocating for your positions before becoming a candidate?

CL: Before running for City Council, I have been deeply involved in serving the residents of Hoboken and advocating for issues that matter to our community. As a former special education teacher in Hoboken public schools, I worked closely with families to address concerns ranging from educational resources and accessibility to neighborhood safety. I was actively involved in the IEP process, which is a legally binding document that outlines each student’s individualized educational plan. Advocating for students within this process required navigating complex systems, ensuring their legal rights were upheld, and collaborating with parents, colleagues, and administrators to secure the services they needed to succeed. These experiences taught me how to listen closely, advocate effectively, and build consensus—skills I am ready to bring to City Council to represent and serve all residents of Hoboken.

HG: Who is another local government official you respect + admire?

CL: I have great respect for Emily Jabbour. I admire the way she approaches leadership with transparency, collaboration, and a focus on practical solutions that serve all residents. Her commitment to improving infrastructure, supporting local businesses, and engaging the community demonstrates how thoughtful, resident-centered governance can make a real difference in people’s daily lives. I try to learn from her approach as I continue to engage with the community and advocate for policies that reflect Hoboken’s values.

HG: What is a project or a problem that you are specifically looking forward to working on if elected?

CL: If elected, I want to tackle housing stability and affordability in Hoboken. As a former public school teacher, I saw how housing instability affects students and families every day. As a renter in the city myself, I understand the stress of rising rents and limited options firsthand. I am committed to preserving affordable housing, supporting long-term residents, and ensuring families, seniors, and individuals of all incomes can continue to call Hoboken home. Addressing this challenge is essential to keeping our community strong, vibrant, and inclusive for everyone.

HG: Any other final notes/thoughts for HG readers about your candidacy, share here:

CL: I’m running for City Council because I care deeply about Hoboken and the people who call it home. Having grown up here, I understand the city’s unique character and the challenges our residents face. My experience as a public school teacher taught me the importance of listening, problem-solving, and advocating for those who need a voice. If elected, I will bring that same commitment to every decision, ensuring our neighborhoods remain safe, inclusive, and vibrant, with residents at the center of every solution.

Nicole Magana

The Hoboken Girl: Council must often work with a Mayor they may disagree with. If you don’t align with the Mayor on a major issue, how will you engage, negotiate, or push back constructively? Do you have examples of how you have done so in the past at work or in political settings, if applicable?

Nicole Magana: I’ve learned through both my corporate career and my real estate practice that disagreement is inevitable, but it doesn’t have to stop progress. If I don’t align with the Mayor on a major issue, I’ll start by listening to their perspective, finding common ground, and then advocating firmly, but respectfully, for residents’ priorities. In my real estate career, I’ve often navigated situations where buyers & sellers had conflicting goals. The key was keeping the conversation professional, and focused on shared goals. I’ve learned that persistence, transparency, and creative problem-solving can turn disagreement into compromise. I would bring that same approach to the City Council.

HG: Hudson County politics has long faced concerns about pay-to-play and insider influence. What specific reforms will you champion (e.g. contracting rules, campaign finance limits, independent oversight, stronger OPRA compliance)?

NM: Hudson County has a history of insider influence, and I think the people of Hoboken deserve stronger safeguards to protect them from these influences. I would support reforms such as:

*Stricter pay-to-play limits on city contracting

*Independent oversight for campaign finance & ethics enforcement

*Faster OPRA compliance so residents don’t have to fight for transparency

*Campaign finance disclosure improvements to make political contributions easier to track

As someone who has worked both in corporate America and in real estate, I’ve seen how trust builds confidence in the system — and without it, Everything slows down. The residents of Hoboken should feel confident that decisions are being made For Them, and Not for people with proximity to power.

HG: How will you balance competing priorities for the city while working without increasing costs for residents?

NM: Residents are already squeezed by high taxes and rents. My approach focuses on efficiency and creative funding. We find balance by carefully auditing the city budgets to cut waste, push for fair developer impact fees, pursue federal and state resiliency grants, and leverage public-private partnerships to enhance services without burdening taxpayers. I’ve seen how hidden costs can make or break a deal in real estate, and the same is true for city government. Smart planning keeps residents protected.

HG: Many residents complain about the high cost of housing in Hoboken, some even claim they have been priced out. What is your opinion and what methods, if any, would you support to address the situation?

NM: As a real estate agent, I hear every day from Hoboken families who feel priced out. I’ve watched many long-time neighbors forced to move because housing costs outpace wages. But I believe we need a balanced approach, which is why I am running with Team Russo. Michael’s policy proposals for housing really does cover all the basics;  Redevelopment of the Hoboken Housing Authority, New Affordable housing developments, as well Workforce Housing, Senior Housing, and Emergency Housing.  I will also work hard to preserve existing affordable housing, as well as strengthen protections for current tenants against predatory rental practices and unfair evictions. Hoboken should remain a place where people of all incomes and backgrounds can live and thrive.

HG: Hoboken’s flooding issues are well-known and the City has made efforts to mitigate the impact through the flood gates, resiliency parks, and other projects. What else would you do to address this problem?

NM: I lived here during Superstorm Sandy, and I live right by Mama Johnson Field which is heavily affected by flooding. So I’ve seen firsthand what flooding can do. The city has made progress, but we can’t stop now. I would advocate for more green infrastructure like bioswales, permeable pavement, rain gardens, and accelerate sewer upgrades to handle storms. As someone who has lived in Hoboken for nearly two decades, resiliency is not abstract,  it’s personal. 

HG: Residents complain about traffic congestion and general disruption as a result of constant construction. How would you respond?

NM: Constant construction frustrates all of us. I’d push for better scheduling and coordination between projects to avoid simultaneous disruptions. And ‘real time’ transparent communication to residents about closures and detours. This all comes down to improving our day to day quality of life in Hoboken. 

HG: Where do you stand on the growth of chain retailers? What tools, if any, would you consider to support local businesses and maintain Hoboken’s small-town feel?

NM: I’ve worked with small business owners looking for retail space in Hoboken, and I know firsthand how hard it is to compete with chains. While some chains may add convenience, Hoboken’s small-town feel depends on local businesses. I’d support small business grants and simplified permitting, as well as zoning tools to protect commercial diversity, and marketing campaigns that highlight Hoboken’s unique businesses. Our main streets should reflect our community, and Not look like ‘anywhere USA’.

HG: Many residents have expressed hygienic concerns with the amount of dog feces on Hoboken’s sidewalks; would you address this problem, and if so, how? And how do you feel the City of Hoboken has handled it currently?

NM: I’m a dog owner myself, so I understand the problem. Current fines exist, but they’re not enough. I would push for more dog waste bag stations in high-traffic areas and keeping them FILLED, educational campaigns about community responsibility and better enforcement where problems persist, like the 4th ward. Clean sidewalks aren’t just about hygiene, it’s about respect for our neighbors and the city we all call Home!

HG: Many residents complain about litter and other debris on sidewalks, especially on Washington Street. How would you address this as a Council member?

NM: Washington Street is our front porch, and it needs attention. I’d propose expanding sanitation crew schedules, deploying more smart bins to reduce overflow and partnering with schools, nonprofits, and civic groups on “adopt-a-block” programs. I’ve served on the boards of local nonprofits, and I’ve seen how community partnerships can tackle issues the government alone struggles to solve.

HG: While Hoboken’s public safety director has publicly stated that crime is down, many residents report feeling unsafe and the City Council has moved to expand the police force. Do you think Hoboken has done enough to make residents feel safe?  What do you suggest?

NM: Statistics may show crime is down, but residents’ feelings matter too. Beyond adding police officers, I’d advocate for more community policing, building trust on the block level, improved lighting in under-lit areas, and expanded youth engagement programs, tackling root causes. A safe city is one where residents both ‘Are safe, and “Feel” safe.

HG: Many residents expressed that the city lacks accommodating infrastructure for the elderly and disabled (i.e. care facilities, benches, ramps, and handicapped parking). What, if any, initiatives would you support as a City Councilperson to make the city more senior and disability-friendly?

NM: My grandparents influenced how I see community care. Hoboken needs to do more for seniors and residents with disabilities. I would definitely Bring the benches Back!  Adding more benches and shaded rest stops throughout the city, as well more ramps is a must. I would also like to explore more senior-focused activities, events and trips through community partnerships. This is about making sure Hoboken works for everyone, regardless of age or ability.

HG: What is your experience serving the residents of your Ward + advocating for your positions before becoming a candidate?

NM: Before running, I served residents through my work in real estate by helping families stay in Hoboken, and navigate housing challenges. I’ve also serve on the Board of Directors (since its inception in 2019/2020) for Community Lifestyle, which is a local children’s nonprofit providing free summer camp, and after-school programs focusing on financial literacy.  This past January we opened the doors at “The Center”, a brand new safe space at 301 Jackson Street where kids can come after school, and can just be kids. I’m so proud of all the work that went into making that space a reality for the kids in the 4th Ward. I’ve been active in Hoboken’s civic life for 18 years now; also serving two Board terms with the Hoboken Rotary, as well volunteering at the Hoboken Shelter, and Party With Purpose events over the years

HG: Who is another local government official you respect + admire?

NM: I admire former Mayor Dawn Zimmer. Her leadership during Hurricane Sandy and her long-term investment in flood resiliency are examples of putting residents first and planning beyond election cycles.

HG: What is a project or a problem that you are specifically looking forward to working on if elected?

NM: Housing affordability is my top priority. It connects to so many other issues like keeping long-time residents here, protecting diversity, and sustaining our schools and businesses. I’d also focus on continuing resiliency work, because Hoboken can’t afford to fall behind on flood protection.

HG: Any other final notes/thoughts for HG readers about your candidacy, share here:

NM: Hoboken is my home. I’ve lived here nearly two decades, built my career here, and want to raise the quality of life for everyone here. My background, from corporate America, to collegiate teaching, to real estate, to nonprofit work, has prepared me to be a Council member who listens, negotiates, and delivers. I’m not running to play politics, I’m running to serve the community that has given me so much.

Joe Quintero

Photo Credit: Emily Curtiss

The Hoboken Girl: Council must often work with a Mayor they may disagree with. If you don’t align with the Mayor on a major issue, how will you engage, negotiate, or push back constructively? Do you have examples of how you have done so in the past at work or in political settings, if applicable?

Joe Quintero: First and foremost, I believe in getting things done for the benefit of our neighbors and friends in Hoboken. There have been a number of times in the past with the current mayor, as I expect there will be with the future mayor, where we have disagreed with either an approach to a problem or a specific goal in general. In all such cases the key to moving forward is to first seek to engage in respectful dialogue where both parties are clear on their motivations and goals. Understanding the “why” behind someone’s rationale is key to finding a path forward. In the past this has led to reasonable compromise – but where a compromise could not be reached, we’ve both agreed to disagree yet retained the respect needed to tackle the next issue.

HG: Hudson County politics has long faced concerns about pay-to-play and insider influence. What specific reforms will you champion (e.g. contracting rules, campaign finance limits, independent oversight, stronger OPRA compliance)?

JQ: Let’s put in restrictions and establish an ethics office. I’m a lawyer by training and a Compliance officer by trade. I’ve spent years learning conflict rules related to businesses engaging with government officials. To avoid conflicts governments across the United States usually take two approaches, restrictions and transparency. Today, because of NJ state law, in Hoboken we take mostly a transparency approach where we require candidates and officials to disclose who gave us campaign contributions over certain amounts. The rules related to receiving gifts or entertainment (e.g., fancy dinners) from private parties are even more relaxed. While our hands are tied with respect to setting restrictive political contribution rules (again thanks to state law), we do have the ability to establish local rules as to what our government officials and employees can receive personally from vendors and individuals seeking to do business with Hoboken. Let’s set up those rules and establish an ethics office to enforce them. 

HG: How will you balance competing priorities for the city while working without increasing costs for residents?

JQ: We need to focus on creating efficiencies in government, tracking our spending, and seeking alternative revenue sources. First, by increasing the productivity of our staff and departments our government can get more done for our residents at the same costs. Currently our departments are a bit siloed which can slow response times. By breaking down those barriers and improving decision making authority, the speed at which we operate can be improved. Second, we should establish an online dashboard to track our spending – this will establish more accountability and cut down on waste, but also keep our residents informed as to how and what we are spending on (this could also help us define what we no longer want to spend on). Finally, we need to bring in more sources of revenue, whether it be by increased ratables, non-resident increases in certain fees (e.g., meter parking), or altogether new revenue such as an “empty store front” fee.

HG: Many residents complain about the high cost of housing in Hoboken, some even claim they have been priced out. What is your opinion and what methods, if any, would you support to address the situation?

JQ: This is simply a fact; folks are being priced out of Hoboken. This has happened to many friends personally. The solutions need to be on two fronts: (1) governing rent increases and (2) smart building.  Locally we have rent control in buildings less than 30 years old; this restricts rent increases there to a max of 5% per year. But our tracking of such units and enforcement of those rules is not great. We need to invest more in our rent office both with personnel and technology to identify who is not complying with our rules and increase penalties for not doing so. Additionally, we need to continue to empower our tenants with the knowledge and support they need to know the rules in place to protect them and fight back when needed. I recently co-sponsored legislation banning rent algorithms in Hoboken and requiring rent disclosures for all tenants (i.e., non-rent controlled tenant) when rents increased over 10%. We need to double down on those efforts by restricting rent increases over 10% in non-rent controlled buildings (unless actual costs exceeded those) and by establishing a right to counsel in Hoboken to represent tenants in disputes. We also need to look to develop more below market rate housing, whether it be “affordable” or “workforce” housing. We can do this by increasing the amount of such units in new private development, but also by building 100% below market rate units on city-owned property when we seek to develop it (such as the Garage B project which is in the works). 

HG: Hoboken’s flooding issues are well-known and the City has made efforts to mitigate the impact through the flood gates, resiliency parks, and other projects. What else would you do to address this problem?

JQ: The city has made tremendous progress with respect to flooding in recent years. So much so that we were featured in the NY Times as a climate success story. To continue to improve here we need to keep doing what we are doing with respect to developing resiliency parks, requiring flood mitigation infrastructure in new developments, and seeking more ways (e.g., permeable pavement) to absorb rainwater during heavy storms which would otherwise overwhelm our sewers. Flooding due to rain will continue to be a challenge, but we know what to do and should keep doing it.  Additionally, we need to make sure that the rebuild by design “resistance efforts” (i.e., sea walls) continue with their construction as quickly as possible in the north and south ends of town. These are to protect from a storm surge coming from the Hudson River (which is what happened during Superstorm Sandy). The sooner those project are completed, the sooner we’ll be safer from a storm surge and the sooner that construction will be over!

HG: Residents complain about traffic congestion and general disruption as a result of constant construction. How would you respond?

JQ: The reduction of local businesses (mom and pops) and the rise of retail chains I think is a reflection on the increased rents some commercial landlords are seeking. I fear they are willing to hold a storefront empty with the hopes a big chain will come in and agree to their asking price. Unfortunately, here there are some limits to the power of the city. If a particular location is approved for a type of business, the city can’t come in and force the issue by saying the landlord MUST rent it to a smaller operation. One thing we CAN do, I think, is penalize a landlord who willfully keeps a storefront empty while they wait for a big payday. Warehousing rental units is already prohibited in Hoboken, we should extend this to commercial units. If a storefront has gone empty for too long, when it otherwise could have been rented, the city should consider imposing a fee on the landlord to encourage renting the unit out. 

HG: Where do you stand on the growth of chain retailers? What tools, if any, would you consider to support local businesses and maintain Hoboken’s small-town feel?

JQ: The reduction of local businesses (mom and pops) and the rise of retail chains I think is a reflection on the increased rents some commercial landlords are seeking. I fear they are willing to hold a storefront empty with the hopes a big chain will come in and agree to their asking price. Unfortunately, here there are some limits to the power of the city. If a particular location is approved for a type of business, the city can’t come in and force the issue by saying the landlord MUST rent it to a smaller operation. One thing we CAN do, I think, is penalize a landlord who willfully keeps a storefront empty while they wait for a big payday. Warehousing rental units is already prohibited in Hoboken, we should extend this to commercial units. If a storefront has gone empty for too long, when it otherwise could have been rented, the city should consider imposing a fee on the landlord to encourage renting the unit out. 

HG: Many residents have expressed hygienic concerns with the amount of dog feces on Hoboken’s sidewalks; would you address this problem, and if so, how? And how do you feel the City of Hoboken has handled it currently?

JQ: Trying to track down offending (and offensive) owners is administratively burdensome, and putting the responsibility on a building owner to pick up a mess they didn’t create seems unfair. My recommendation is to direct our sanitation crews (e.g., the “can men”) operated by the city and the Hoboken Business Alliance to also pick up messes left by irresponsible owners. This along with enhanced communications on our responsibility to be thoughtful residents can go a long way to keeping our sidewalks clean.

HG: Many residents complain about litter and other debris on sidewalks, especially on Washington Street. How would you address this as a Council member?

JQ: Similar to the response above, we should do a better job of having our sanitations teams help out, especially the Hoboken Business Alliance. However, we need to have our commercial neighbors on Washington step up too. It is their responsibility to keep their places clean, and when they fail our code enforcement officers should step up with warnings and penalties as needed. 

HG: While Hoboken’s public safety director has publicly stated that crime is down, many residents report feeling unsafe and the City Council has moved to expand the police force. Do you think Hoboken has done enough to make residents feel safe?  What do you suggest?

JQ: Violent crime and property crime are down – however, quality of life crimes (those which make you feel unsafe) have been on the rise. This year I led the efforts to increase our police force which will establish a Community Policing Bureau. This Bureau will put cops on foot patrol throughout the city. Statistics show this the BEST WAY to curtail quality of life crimes as our officers will act as both a deterrent and a preventative measure. I look forward to this team coming on line in the next year.

HG: Many residents expressed that the city lacks accommodating infrastructure for the elderly and disabled (i.e. care facilities, benches, ramps, and handicapped parking). What, if any, initiatives would you support as a City Councilperson to make the city more senior and disability-friendly?

JQ: We need to do two things – step up our ADA compliance throughout the city and improve our transportation options for all.  All of our city properties need to be brought up to full ADA compliance immediately. Additionally, we need to promote and enforce increased ADA compliance across our businesses as well.  With respect to transportation, we need to step up our city transportation options – namely improve the HOP. We need more routes and simplified routes across Hoboken, and all Hoboken shuttles need to facilitate use by individuals with mobility issues. 

HG: What is your experience serving the residents of your Ward + advocating for your positions before becoming a candidate?

JQ: I’ve had the honor of serving on the City Council as an at large councilmember for the past four years. In that time I’ve improved communications between public safety teams and residents, increase the number of cops on the beat, fully staffed our fire trucks, improved overall pedestrian safety, instituted tenant protections, and more. I look forward to continuing on my efforts to make sure Hoboken is a place we can all thrive.  Before serving on the Council I was an executive committee member of the Hoboken Democratic Party (which I chair today). In this capacity, I lead numerous efforts to promote democratic candidates, voter registration drives, and general promotion of progressive values in the city. 

HG: Who is another local government official you respect + admire?

JQ: I’ll name two (but there are more) – first my running mate Emily Jabbour. Her dedication to constituent services is inspiring (and exhausting… I can’t keep up!). I have never met anyone with a stronger work ethic and capacity and willingness to engage on any issue than her. She will make an outstanding mayor, which is why I am so proud to run with her.  Second, is my friend and colleague Jim Doyle. Jim has been my mentor on the council for the past four years. I’ve learned so much from him that I will be eternally grateful. I’m sad to see him go, though I suspect he’ll be happy to still serve on the planning board.  

HG: What is a project or a problem that you are specifically looking forward to working on if elected?

JQ: The establishment of the Community Policing Bureau. Keeping Hoboken safe is paramount to everything we do. If our residents don’t feel safe on the street or in their homes, nothing else will work.

HG: Any other final notes/thoughts for HG readers about your candidacy, share here:

JQ: Vote Emily Jabbour for Mayor (3G)… and Joe Quintero (1H), Caitlin Layson (2H), and Steve Firestone (3) for council-at-large!

See More: Montclair Public Library Announces Winners of 2025 Library Card Design Contest

Liz Urtecho

The Hoboken Girl: Council must often work with a Mayor they may disagree with. If you don’t align with the Mayor on a major issue, how will you engage, negotiate, or push back constructively? Do you have examples of how you have done so in the past at work or in political settings, if applicable?

Liz Urtecho: I believe productive government depends on both collaboration and independence. If I don’t align with the Mayor on a major issue, my approach is to engage directly, listen carefully, and look for areas of common ground. When compromise is possible without sacrificing residents’ interests, I will work toward solutions that move the city forward. But if I believe a proposal is not in the best interest of Hoboken, I will not hesitate to push back—openly, respectfully, and with transparency—so that residents understand where I stand and why.

In practice, I have rallied residents to attend City Council meetings, made public comments, and engaged stakeholders directly on issues important to our city. I also send newsletters to the community highlighting key agenda items so residents are informed and can make their voices heard. Ultimately, my guiding principle is simple: whether I align with the Mayor or challenge them, my goal is always to ensure Hoboken’s government operates with transparency, integrity, and a residents-first approach.

HG: Hudson County politics has long faced concerns about pay-to-play and insider influence. What specific reforms will you champion (e.g. contracting rules, campaign finance limits, independent oversight, stronger OPRA compliance)?

LU: I believe Hoboken residents deserve a government that is free from undue influence and fully accountable to the people it serves. That starts with stronger campaign finance laws and OPRA reform that increases transparency, not reduces it.  I would support reforms that tighten campaign finance rules to close loopholes and limit contributions from developers, contractors, and PACs with business before the city. I also support strengthening contracting rules so awards are based on merit and public need, not political connections; and improving OPRA compliance by removing barriers that slow down public records requests and supporting legislation that adds transparency rather than less. My guiding principle is simple: residents should never have to question whether decisions are being made for political gain or for the benefit of our community.

HG: How will you balance competing priorities for the city while working without increasing costs for residents?

LU: Balancing competing priorities requires transparency, discipline, and a clear focus on what matters most to residents. First, we need greater transparency around the city’s financials, including long-term forecasting, so the public understands how increased expenditures affect the bottom line. With that foundation, we can have honest conversations about trade-offs and ensure residents’ voices are part of the decision-making process.  My approach is to prioritize the “must-haves” like public safety, infrastructure, and quality of life, before funding “nice-to-haves” such as nonessential projects. At the same time, we need to carefully evaluate city operations to identify areas where expenses can be managed more efficiently. By aligning spending with core needs, streamlining operations, and scrutinizing new initiatives against our financial realities, we can manage resources responsibly without increasing costs for residents.

HG: Many residents complain about the high cost of housing in Hoboken, some even claim they have been priced out. What is your opinion and what methods, if any, would you support to address the situation?

LU: The high cost of housing is one of the greatest challenges facing Hoboken, and too many residents feel priced out of their own community. To address this, I support tightening and streamlining rent control laws so tenants are protected and the process is clear and consistent. I also believe we must expand affordable and workforce housing requirements in new development, ensuring that growth benefits residents across income levels and not just luxury buyers. At the same time, managing city finances responsibly to keep the tax levy down is critical—because housing affordability is not just about rent or mortgages, but also about property taxes. My priority is to make sure Hoboken remains a place where families, seniors, and young professionals alike can afford to stay and build their lives.

HG: Hoboken’s flooding issues are well-known and the City has made efforts to mitigate the impact through the flood gates, resiliency parks, and other projects. What else would you do to address this problem?

LU: Hoboken has taken important steps to address flooding through resiliency parks, flood gates, and infrastructure upgrades, but more needs to be done. I believe we must continue to prioritize the most vulnerable areas of the city and ensure resources are directed where the risk is highest. Use technology to better forecast potential flooding issues. Just as important, we need to enhance communication with residents so they receive timely, proactive updates and guidance instead of reactive alerts when the damage is already done. By combining smart planning, technology, and stronger community engagement, we can build a more resilient Hoboken that protects residents, property, and quality of life.

HG: Residents complain about traffic congestion and general disruption as a result of constant construction. How would you respond?

LU: Unfortunately, Hoboken is constantly under construction, and while infrastructure investment is necessary, the way it’s managed often creates unnecessary disruption. My approach would be to take a residents-first view of how projects are scheduled and coordinated. That means having a holistic understanding of all city and utility projects, prioritizing those that address the biggest pain points, and sequencing work in a way that minimizes overlapping closures. For example, rather than closing two major cross-town streets at the same time, the city should coordinate timelines to keep traffic moving. Just as importantly, we need clear and proactive communication with residents—so people know what to expect and can plan around closures, instead of being surprised by detours. By managing projects with foresight and transparency, we can reduce congestion, limit frustration, and still deliver the improvements our city needs.

HG: Where do you stand on the growth of chain retailers? What tools, if any, would you consider to support local businesses and maintain Hoboken’s small-town feel?

LU: Small businesses are the backbone and the charm of Hoboken, and preserving that character is critical to maintaining our small-town feel. The recent growth of chain retailers is largely a result of high commercial rents and zoning red tape that only larger companies can absorb. While I believe there is room for a balance of both chains retailers and small businesses, we need to focus on local entrepreneurs’ challenges. That means reviewing zoning laws to see where we can streamline approvals, accelerate the opening process, and decrease the expense for small business owners. I would partner with the HBA to explore incentives, partnerships, and city programs that help independent businesses thrive and stay competitive. Ultimately, Hoboken’s identity has always been shaped by its unique, locally owned shops and restaurants, and we need policies that continue that tradition.

HG: Many residents have expressed hygienic concerns with the amount of dog feces on Hoboken’s sidewalks; would you address this problem, and if so, how? And how do you feel the City of Hoboken has handled it currently?

LU: Pet waste is a serious quality-of-life issue, and Hoboken needs a stronger, more consistent approach. My plan is to enforce cleanup laws, install additional bag dispensers across the city, and partner with property owners to keep high-traffic areas clean. I would also look at how other cities address this challenge and bring best practices to Hoboken—for example, updating the reporting system so residents can flag problem spots and repeat offenders. Right now, the city’s response has been inconsistent.

HG: Many residents complain about litter and other debris on sidewalks, especially on Washington Street. How would you address this as a Council member?

LU: Clean sidewalks are a basic quality-of-life issue. As a Council member, I would push for stronger enforcement of sanitation rules, more frequent litter pickup on high-traffic corridors like Washington Street, and additional trash and recycling receptacles in busy areas. I would also partner with property owners, businesses, and the Hoboken Business Alliance to ensure sidewalks are properly maintained, while expanding opportunities for community clean-up days. Keeping our streets clean isn’t complicated—it just needs to be a priority.

HG: While Hoboken’s public safety director has publicly stated that crime is down, many residents report feeling unsafe and the City Council has moved to expand the police force. Do you think Hoboken has done enough to make residents feel safe?  What do you suggest?

LU: Even if crime statistics show improvement, many residents still feel unsafe—and that disconnect is real. Public safety isn’t just about numbers; it’s about seeing officers in our neighborhoods, knowing they are accessible, and trusting they will respond quickly. That’s why Hoboken needs to return to true community policing, with officers consistently visible and building relationships. We also need to think outside the box—looking at best practices from other cities to find ways to do more with the resources we already have, instead of relying solely on adding headcount that can take years to hire and train.

HG: Many residents expressed that the city lacks accommodating infrastructure for the elderly and disabled (i.e. care facilities, benches, ramps, and handicapped parking). What, if any, initiatives would you support as a City Councilperson to make the city more senior and disability-friendly?

LU: Right now, Hoboken falls short in meeting the needs of seniors and residents with disabilities, and we need a stronger, more intentional approach. I currently teach a senior fitness class and hear many of these concerns first-hand from the community, so I know how critical they are. The recent removal of benches along Washington Street was disruptive and highlighted a lack of transparency with the community. Residents were not informed ahead of time, and it took public pressure to raise awareness of this basic quality-of-life issue. As a councilmember, I will push to evaluate our citywide seating plan with the goal of increasing foot traffic and creating natural resting points throughout Hoboken. My commitment is to ensure our city is one where seniors and residents with disabilities can navigate safely and comfortably.

HG: What is your experience serving the residents of your Ward + advocating for your positions before becoming a candidate?

LU: Two years ago, I ran in the 5th Ward election because I believed our community deserves leaders who put residents first. Since then, I’ve continued to stay deeply engaged. My neighbors often reach out to me directly — whether about road closures, development projects, or larger policy issues — because they trust me to respond and get them the answers they are looking for. That experience has only strengthened my resolve to advocate for my neighbors and run for the citywide council position.

HG: Who is another local government official you respect + admire?

LU: The late Councilwoman Jen Giattino – she was always my go-to person who could provide political advice and clearly see a path forward on any issue. I miss her dearly.

HG: What is a project or a problem that you are specifically looking forward to working on if elected?

LU: One of the issues I’m most looking forward to working on is supporting our senior community. Hoboken hasn’t done enough to meet the needs of older residents, and I hear this firsthand from the seniors I work with in my fitness class. From affordable and accessible housing, to benches along Washington Street, to expanded recreation and social programs — these are quality-of-life issues that matter to our aging population. If elected, I’ll push for a more intentional, city-wide approach to senior services so that our older residents can feel supported, valued, and able to fully enjoy life in Hoboken.

HG: Any other final notes/thoughts for HG readers about your candidacy, share here:

LU: I’m running because Hoboken is at a pivotal moment for change. With new leadership ahead, we have the opportunity to build a government rooted in transparency, integrity, and a residents-first approach. I believe in Hoboken’s potential, and I’m ready to bring the energy, honesty, and determination needed to move our community forward.

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