VOTE411 Voter Guide

As 3rd Ward Councilor, my highest priority will be to gain a comprehensive understanding of the current status of operations and initiatives in Montclair, particularly focusing on the progress and condition in which the current Council has left these matters. This effort is crucial for ensuring continuity and stability for our residents. A key component of this undertaking will be addressing the ongoing legal issues facing our town.

My approach will be twofold. Firstly, I am dedicated to working towards the swift and judicious resolution of the ongoing lawsuits, which have unfortunately tarnished our town's reputation. Secondly, and equally important, I will champion a fundamental change in the culture of our town government, which I believe has contributed to these legal issues. It is imperative that we realign the values of our government with those of our community. This cultural shift will reduce the likelihood of future legal challenges, as well as restore trust and integrity in our governance. Together, these actions will uphold residents’ expectations, fostering a “Good Government” that is more transparent, accountable, responsive, and community-focused.

As a Council member, I am deeply committed to fostering an environment where diverse voices are not only heard but actively included in our discussions and decision-making processes. It is imperative that we embrace the rich tapestry of perspectives within our community, recognizing that every resident brings unique insights and experiences to the table. By prioritizing diversity and inclusion in our deliberations on crucial issues like affordable housing, smart growth, and education, we can ensure that our decisions are equitable and reflect the needs and aspirations of all our residents. Through collaborative efforts that honor the full spectrum of our community's diversity, we can forge a path towards a more inclusive Montclair.

As a Council member, it is my utmost responsibility to uphold the decisions made by legal authorities, ensuring that our actions are grounded in ethical behavior and transparency at all times. Upholding the rule of law is essential for maintaining the trust and confidence of our community, and I am steadfast in my commitment to this principle. Furthermore, I recognize the invaluable role that community engagement and input from residents play in shaping our approach to addressing legal issues. By actively soliciting and attentively listening to the concerns and perspectives of our constituents, we can ensure that our efforts are not only responsive to the needs of the community but also reflective of its values and priorities.

As a Council member, my highest priority will be enhancing the quality of life for Montclair residents, with affordability standing at the forefront. Montclair's escalating property taxes have placed undue strain on homeowners and landlords (then renters), leaving many feeling economically vulnerable and at risk of displacement. To address this pressing issue, reconvening the Finance Committee will be imperative. The Finance Committee (which I will be a part of) will thoroughly examine the township's budget, identifying areas for cost savings and efficiencies. Additionally, bolstering non resident tax revenue will be key to stymying tax growth. I would encourage the Finance Committee and the Montclair BID to collaborate on this endeavor.

I would form a committee to conduct a comprehensive review of current legal matters, pin pointing priority cases and assessing potential liabilities. The committee, which would be inclusive of the town attorney, would craft an action plan to remediate pending cases efficiently while minimizing financial impact on taxpayers.