Built by DTE ?Energy, it covers 900 acres and runs on 347,000 solar panels, generating 150 m?egawatts of power.

And that’s enough to power about 40,000 homes!

Although, this project isn’t solely about flipping the s??witch? on more solar panels.

It’s part of DTE Energy’s ambitious plan to boost Michigan’s renewabl?e energy, lower carbon emissions, and create lasting benefits for the local community.

Sauk Solar Park Powers Michigan with Clean Energy

Sauk Solar Park is a huge facility—more than three times the size of DTE’s prev?ious largest solar farm in Lapeer.

DTE Energy, a leader in Michigan’s energy industry, has developed this park as part of its CleanVision MIGreenPowe??r program, which allows customers to support renewable energy.

With over 100,000 residential and nearly 2,000 business customers already signed up, this new solar park is an important addition to Michigan’s clean energy transition.

At ??150MW, Sauk Solar is a significant achievement in Mic?higan’s drive for sustainable power.

This facility alone can provide renewable energy to thousands of homes and reduce the ne?ed for coal and other traditional energy sources.

It’s also the first of six? new solar parks DTE plans to open by 2035 to meet a 60% cl??ean energy target.

This new series of proj??ects aligns with DTE’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, helping Michigan take the lead in renewable energy.

Job Creation and Community Support

Aside from producing clean energy, Sauk Solar Park? also brings substantial economic benefits to local communiti??es.

The project generated over 350 jobs during con??struction, providing employment and s?trengthening the local economy.

Since 2009, DTE’s renewable energy projects have contributed over 20,000 jobs to Michigan, and Sauk Solar continues that positive trend.

Furthermore, these jobs create ripple effect??s in the local economy as workers spend their earnings at area businesses.

In turn, the economic benefits are felt in local stores, restaurants, and othe??r services that support the community.

Renee Tomina, senior vice ??president of project management at DTE, emphasizes how these jobs bring real financial benefits to the community.

Additionally, DTE worked closely with Bran?ch County offic?ials and built strong local partnerships as they developed the project.

Community leaders have appreciated this approach, and it refle??cts DTE’s commitment to making a? long-term impact.

Benefits for Local Farmers and Families

In addition to job creation?, Sauk Solar provides new opportunities for farmers in Branch County.

??Agriculture is a core part of the local ec??onomy, and farmers in the area see the potential to benefit from Sauk Solar’s development.

Som??e of the land hosting solar panels comes from local farms, offe??ring the farmers additional income.

This new revenue stream helps farmers keep their land in the family and supports the local a??gricultural ec?onomy.

Joe Musallam, DTE’s vice president of renewable energy sales, sees this as a way for farmers to protec?t their land while creating financial stability for the future.

With Michigan’s agricultural sector facing many chal??lenges, the sola?r park provides a valuable source of stable income for farmers and their families.

Building a Sustainable Future for Michigan

Sauk Solar marks the start?? of Michigan’s broader shift toward clean, renewable energy.

This solar park ??is the first in a series of solar projects that DTE has lined up to meet the growing demand for clean energy.

Through the CleanVision MIGreenPower program, DTE empowers Michigan residents to actively partici?pate in the st?ate’s clean energy transition.

Currently, DTE’s renewable energy sources power over 750,000 homes, bu?t they plan to increase that to 5.5 million homes by 2042.

And the Sauk Solar project is a first step, demonstrating that large-scale renewable projects can deliver immediate benefits to communities and long-term sustainability for Michig?an’s energy supply.

Each new solar project will help Michigan reduce its dependence on coal and phase ou??t coal entirely by 2032.

The shift to clean energy goes beyond meeting state targets; it’s focused on providing the kind of renewable energy that Michigan residents want.

Projects li?ke Sauk Solar are helping turn Michigan’s green energy goals into reality, ensuring a cleaner and brighter future for future generations.

Imagine li??ving in a neighborhood where empty, rundown houses are replaced with new, welcoming space?s.

Many Union City r??esidents have been waiting for this shift, and Mayor Vince Williams is leading this exciting? project.

With Change Starts Here, Union City is making the city safer, more attractiv??e, and a better place to live and work.

Through this effort, the mayor and his team hope to raise property values, cut down on crime, and invite?? more business opportunities.

Let’s explore how this program works, what’s ?happening now, and what it means for everyone in Union City.

Starting with Demolition 

Union City’s Change Starts Here program officiall??y began when a demolition crew tore down an old, vacant house on Roosevelt Highway.

Residents cheered as they watched the building come do?wn, knowing it symbolized a fresh start.

Rundown proper?ties like ?this have made neighborhoods feel neglected and unsafe for years.

?And this new program is a??bout turning that around and bringing life back to these areas.

Mayor Williams shared his vision for the program: “This is our number one goal—to reclaim and transform this area.�?/p>

The city can create inviting and safe spaces by clearing out ??old, blighted properties.

When neighborhoods are free fro?m rundown buildi?ngs, they become more welcoming to families and businesses, and property values can rise.

Longtime resident Marilyn McCain, who has called ??Union City home for over 40 y??ears, was there to see the demolition.

She was happy about the program, saying, �?i>I am excited that our city is moving forward with getting rid of the blight that has held us back.�?/p>

For Marilyn and ma?ny others, seeing the city t??ake action is a sign of positive change.

City and Community Working Together

The Change Starts Here program is a call for everyone to get involved.

Mayor Williams and his team understand that real change happens?? when the commun??ity works together.

They’re enco??uraging residents and businesses to play a part in cleaning up an??d maintaining their properties.

The m??ayor explained how rundown propertie?s can impact everyone.

�?i>When you think about your property value or your property values, blight can bring down your neighbor’s property because your neighbor is not taking care of their property,�?he said.

Through the program, the city aims to work closely with property owners to keep areas clean and saf?e, making a difference everyone can feel.

Marilyn McCai?n shares this hope, saying that when people feel proud and safe in their neighborhoods, they are more likely to take care of their surroundings.

The city wants this program to be a fresh start for Union City, where people take pride in their neighborhoods, work together, and see positive changes unfol?d.

City Takes the Lead, Setting an Example for Everyone

One of the biggest moves in the Change Starts Here program is the city’s choice to first? address its blighted properties.

By doing this, Union City is show??ing that it’s committed to leading by example.

The house de?molished on Roosevelt Highway was actually city-owned, proving? that they’re serious about this cleanup.

When the city cleans up its properties, it sends a clear message: it is not only asking residents to d??o their?? part but also doing it.

Marilyn McCain appreciated seeing the city take charge, saying, �?i>It’s good to see the city take charge and lead the way, and then the residents feel a lot more confident in the journey that we’re on,�?/p>

By taking responsibility for its own properties, the city ?is building trust with the community and inspiring others to do the same.

A Safer, Stronger Future for Union City

The ultimate goal of Change Starts Here is to make Union City a place where peo??ple feel safe, proud, and c??onnected.

With cleane?r str?eets and fewer blighted buildings, the program hopes to reduce crime, attract new businesses, and increase property values.

Marilyn McCain believes these improvements will bring new energy and pride to th??e city, making it a place where everyone w??ants to live, work, and play.

Though the plans for the newly cleared lot on Rooseve??lt Highway are still a mystery, Mayor Williams promises that the transformation will be s?omething residents will love.

The program’s approa??ch to turning rundown are??as into inviting spaces has people in Union City excited about what’s to come.

�?i>Increase safety, invite people to come here to live, work, and play,�?McCain said.

The vision is a Union City where every neighborhood feels like home and residents are pr??oud of their homes.

With Change Starts Here, Union City prove?s that dedication and teamwork make change pos??sible.

As Union City tr??ansforms neglected spaces into opportunities for growth, it ??sets a hopeful tone for the future.

Over 1,500 LED lights, which brighten up the city’s streets at night, are at the heart of th??is transfor?mation.

Paired with the “Growing Together” initiative, it encourages the community to actively beautify public spaces and their properties.

As part of the city’s revitalization, these two efforts go hand in hand to make the city feel more welcoming, lively, and connected.

More Than 1,500 Lights Brighten Union City’s Downtown

One of the most noticeable changes in Union City is the recent installation of more than 1,500 LED lights across its do??wnto??wn area.

Sta??rting ar?ound 7:30 p.m., the lights switch on every night, illuminating the streets until midnight.

As you can imagine, this has completely changed how downtown looks after dark. It’s now a more vibrant and inviting sp?ace for everyone.

The lights are part of a larg??er push to revitalize the downtown area, which has already seen other improvements, such as colorful murals and a new gateway at the site of the old Union City Dinor.

Though these lights aren’t only for decoration—they help bring out the beauty of the town’s historic buildings, highlighting details that go un??noticed during the day.

The wa?y the lights brighten up the skyline creates a sense of warmth, and it makes the area fee??l more alive in the evenings.

As a result, downtown has become a place where peop??le want to spend time, whether strolling through the streets o??r gathering with friends.

The Idea Behind Union City’s Lighting Project

The idea for the downtown lighting came about in 2022 during a brainst??orming meeting with Steve Bishop, Union City Borough Manager Cindy Wells??, and Terri Migliaccio, who leads a local nonprofit called UC Action.

After exploring several ideas, they decided to ?model their project on a simila?r one in Ripon, Wisconsin.

Interestingly, Ripon has been lighting its downtown for 30 years and is known as the “city of lights.”

With help from Ripon??’s team, Union City learned what type of wiring, light fixtures, and bulbs to ??use.

In a carefully planned design, the lights in Union City are? spaced 18 inches apart on 2,300 feet of strong wiring, which wraps around the corners of buildings in some spots.

The lights are set on ??timers, so they’ll adjust to the changing seasons and ??always turn on as it gets dark.

What’s special about this pr?oject is the cooperation of local building owners, who allow the city to install the ligh?ts on their rooftops and power them with their own electricity.

In some ca??ses, owners of buildings at the corners of blocks offered to provide power for an entire stretch of lights.

Cindy Wells shared that local businesses ha?ve been ve??ry supportive, with no one opposing the project.

Undeniably, t??his spirit of cooperation is a great example of how the community works? together to improve the town without pushback.

The entire lighting project cost $46,000, funded by grants from th?e Erie Community Foundation and the Union City Community Foun??dation.

Plus, UC Action has also set aside money for any future repairs or bu??lb replacements to keep the lights shining brightly.

The “Growing Together” Project: Encouraging Residents to Improve the Community

Alongside the downtown lighting project, Union City has also launched the “Growing Together” initiative.

As part of the initiative, the program aims to get residents involved in making the city a better place. By doing so, it encourages people to improve their own pro??perties and participate in larger community projects.

At its core, it’s about inspiring peo?ple to take pride in their surroundings and work together to create a welcom?ing and beautiful city.

Through “Growing Together,” residents can attend free classes that teach them useful skills like gardening, setting up irrigation systems, and composting.

And essentially, these classes are meant to help people take better care of their yards a??nd properties, and the hope is that when one? person makes improvements, it will inspire others in the neighborhood to do the same.

Amazingly, it’s all part ??of a bigger goal to make Union City a place where everyone feels proud of where they live.

But the program isn’t just about individua??l efforts. It also offers plenty of opportunities for people to collaborate and work on projec?ts that benefit the whole community.

Volunteers can participate in events like tree planting, landscaping public parks, and even joining an adopt-a-spot program where they help maintain certain areas of t??he city.

With this goal in mind, the init?iatives are?? designed to unite people, creating a sense of shared responsibility and accomplishment.

The idea b?ehind this initiative is simple: when people work together to care for their city, it becomes a more e?njoyable place for everyone.

Local leaders are excited a??bout this project, which they see as a way to strengthen the bonds within the community while making the city a more pleasant place to live.

A Brighter Future for Union City

Together, the downtown lighting project and the “Growing Together” initiative are shaping Union City’s future.

As we? covered today, these efforts, amazingly, bring people together to create a more beautiful, inviti??ng city.

With?? the support of local residents and business owners, the town is physically and socially transforming.

The lights give the downtown area a new, lively atmosphere, while the “Growing Together” initiative fosters a sense of collaboration and shared pride in the city.

As these projects unfold, Union City is set to become a ??place where eve??ryone feels welcome, inspired, and proud to call home.

If you want to get involved in this transformation, you can contact the city at [email protected] to learn more about ho??w you can contribute.

He had ??been sending his family some very upsetting messages and photos, which made them contact the police for he??lp.

What began as a search to find a ?missing person turned into a much more tragic event, leaving t?he whole community shocked and heartbroken.

Here’s what happened and what we know so far.

Family’s Concerns Sparked Urgent Search

On Saturday, August 24, a 4?6-year-old man was reported missing by his family, who had received unsettling messages and photos from him that raised concerns about his well-being.

Described as a white male, the man had made troubling statements to his family, leading them t?o seek help from the Union City Police D?epartment.

The case, which started as a missing person report, tragica??lly unfolded in an unexpected and heartbreaking way.

Police were dispatched at 5:21 p.m. and began working closely with the man’s family ??to search the area. During the search, they learned he mi??ght be near Mission Boulevard and F Street.

Police Locate Missing Man, Leading to Tragic Suicide

Soon after the search began, police found the missing man inside a par??ked vehicle.

When officers appro??ached the car and began ??giving him instructions, things quickly took a tragic turn.

The man exite?d the vehicle, holding a firearm, and shot?? himself.

Officers on the scene?? immediately provided medical attention to the man in an attem?pt to save his life.

He was then transported to a local hospital with severe injuries, but unfortuna???tely, the situation remained critical.

Detective Bedford Leads the Investigation

In the wake of the incident, Uni?on City Police confirmed that none of the officers discharged their firearms?? during the event.

Detective Mich??ael Bedford is now thoroughly investigating the case.

The investigation aims to uncover the full details of what led to the man’s disappe??arance, the concerning messages sent to his family, and the tragic outcome.

Anyone with infor?mation about the case is encouraged to contact Detective Bedford at (510) 675-5266 or via email at [email protected].

The police are seeking additional details to? help piec??e together the events leading up to this tragic incident.

Community Grieves as Investigation Continues

By 1:00 a.m.?? on Sunday, police activity at the scene had wrapped up, and the surrounding area returned to normal.

Of course, the tragic event has left the community shaken, bringing attention to the urgent need for mental health support and interventio?n when people show signs of distress.

For anyone experiencing emotional distress ??o??r contemplating self-harm, remember there is always support available.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and other resources are available to pro??vide support during difficul?t times.

This all happened just two days after a? woman overdosed at his place but luckily survived. No?w, Weed faces some serious drug charges.

Police Launch Investigation After Overdose Incident on Parade Street

The Union City Police Department, with the help of the Erie County District Attorney’s Drug Task Force, began investigating after they were called to Weed’s apartment on August 14 due to a heroin overdose.

The woman who overdosed spoke to authorities about her experience. She explained that Weed had invited her over and then insisted she take a “bump” of heroin to prove she wasn’t trying to set him up.

Thankfully, she survived, but her overdose made it clear that there might be something more going on, leading police to act quickly and search Weed’s place.

When they searched Weed’s apartment, they found around 20 grams of suspected heroin, some digital scales (which dealers often use), and other drug-relat??ed items.

They also found $840 in cash, which seemed to suggest he? might have been selling drugs.

Jonathan Weed Faces Multiple Drug Charges After Police Search

After the search, Weed was charged with multiple drug crimes, including a felony for possessing heroin with the in??te?nt to sell it.

Not to mention, he??’s also facing several misdemeanors, like having drug paraphernalia and tool?s used for drug crimes.

We?ed was jailed but got out after posting a $5,000 bond. Following this, he’s set to appear in court on September 9 for a preliminary hearing, where more details will come out.

Right now, it’s unclear if he has a lawyer, as none was listed on his criminal record at the time of his arrest.

Community Concerns After Arrest and Upcoming Court Proceedings

Jonathan Weed’s arrest shows how serious the heroin proble??m is in Union City.

With the help of the Union ??City Police and the Erie County District Attorney’s Drug Task Force, they managed to get another allege?d drug dealer off the streets.

Looki??ng ahead, Weed’s court hearing on September 9 will determine what happens next for?? him.

This case demonstrates how dangerous drug use, especially heroin, can be and why it’s so important? for police to act quickly.

Additionally, the overdose and the arrest are clear reminders that drug addiction and dealing are major issues, an??d the community needs to keep working to fight these problems.

Guy cites Vogt’s extensive experience working as executive director of the Hudson County Democratic Organization, and the crucial perspective that she will bring to the team as a young millennial woman dedicated to the future of Democratic politics.

“I am thrilled to announce that Julietta Vogt will be leading our campaign team,�?said Guy. “Julietta is a highly skilled and experienced leader in Democratic politics, and not only has she worked closely with leaders and activists in Hudson County, but as a millennial and a woman she will bring with her the perspective that we need to move our county and the Democratic party forward.�?/p>

Guy is ??a lifelong public servant who has spent his career in Hudson County. After serving as a Jersey City police officer for 25 years, he has served as the president of the Hudson County S??chools of Technology Board of Education, and chief of staff to DeGise.

Guy also serves as the treasurer of the Huds?on County Democratic Organization. Guy said he will work to keep county property taxes stable, expand education, and improve parks and other public recreation spaces throughout the county.

“This is such an important race for the future of Hudson County, and I can think of no one better than Craig Guy to serve as County Executive and keep moving our community forward,�?said Vogt. “I am so excited to take on this role and to work with Craig to build on the work that he has already done to serve Hudson County.�?/p>

Chairwoman for campaign named as well

Recently, Guy also announced that Florence Holmes will serve as chairwoman for his campaign for Hudson C??ounty Executive. A Jersey City native, Florence Holmes is a prominent leader and advocate in her community.

“Florence and I have been friends for many years and I am honored that she is joining our team,�?said Guy. “Florence and I met when I was serving as the Executive Officer in the West District in the Jersey City Police Department, and her neighborhood was part of my beat. From then on I’ve admired her leadership and commitment to community organizing and activism. Her deep knowledge of Jersey City and its residents will be invaluable as we work to uplift every community within Hudson County.�?/p>

Throughout her long organizing work, Holmes has headed block associations in her neighborhood, and works at the Bethune Community Center. She also partnered closely with Guy on community policing programs in Jersey City. Holmes’s daughter operates a 501(c)(3) that works to feed the needy in Jersey City and Bayonne, and has also partnered with the county on numerous food insecurity programs.

“I’m so honored to be taking on this role and to be working with my longtime friend Craig,�?said Holmes. “I’ve known and worked with Craig for many years and there is no question that he is the right person for the job. He has spent his entire career dedicated to serving the people of Hudson County, and I’m excited to support his candidacy for County Executive.�?/p>

Guy faces a challenge from progressive activist and former vice president of the Progressive Democrats of Hudson County Eleana Little. Although she was not on the “county line,�?meaning endorsed by the Hud??son County Democratic Organization, Little came close to beating County Commissioner Yraida Aponte-Lipski in the 4th District in 2020 but ultimately lost by nearly a nine po?int margin with 4,117 votes for Aponte-Lipski to 3,397 votes for Little.

Election Day for the county executive and all nine county commissioners is June 6. After that, the winners of the Democratic Primary traditionally go on to trounce?? any Republican opponents in the General Election in November.

For updates on this and other stories, check www.iccwins98.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at [email protected].

But?? this year a handful of progressive candidates will try to challenge the usual primary cakewalk for Hudson County Democratic Organization office hold?ers.

Alex Valdez has announced his candidacy for Hudson County Commissioner for District 9, comprising the West Hudson towns of Kearny, Harrison, East Newark, and parts of Secaucus and Jersey City. ??The seat is currently held by Commissioner Al?bert Cifelli.

As a non-profit leader and former Sergea?nt in the New Jersey Army National Guard, Valdez said he understands the wants and needs of the people of Hudson County. He is challenging an incumbent who has run unopposed for over 20 years to ensure that Hudson County residents have an advocate on the board who will fight to keep their community affordable, safe, and supportive.

“I am running for County Commissioner to ensure that Hudson County is a place where rent is affordable, our streets are safe, the environment is clean, and the American Dream is still attainable,�?Valdez said. “As the child of a single mother who immigrated to this country, and a product of Kearny public schools, I am eager to give back to the community that gave so much to me. Each day the conversations I’ve been having with the residents of West Hudson have been nothing short of inspirational.�?/p>

Like so many others, Alex’s mother immigrated to Hudson County seeking better opportunities and the American Dream for her children. He was born and rai?sed in Kearny and is a proud product of Kearny public schools, as well as Rutgers-Newark where he earned his Master’s Degree in Public Administration.

Valdez has coordinated after-school and summer progr?ams for low-income youth in Passaic and Paterson, and now serves as a Board Chair for America Needs You-NJ, a non-profit dedicated to assisting first generation college students with career development. Additionally, he has worked on humanitarian aid missions supporting Ukrainian refugees fleeing the Russia-Ukraine War, vulnerable Afghans who were evacuated to the United States, and asylum-seekers from the southern border including families, who just like his own, came here seeking a better life.

Valdez is running for Hudson County Commissioner in District 9 to keep the community affordable, improve parking and public transit, expand access to green space, and increase transparency and accountability in government. For more information about his campaign, go online to AlexValdezNJ.com.

District 2 progressive declares his candidacy as well

Along with Valdez, 24-year-old Adrian Ghainda of the Progressive Democrats of Hudson County has recently launched his first campaign for public office for the District ??2 seat on the Hudson County Board of Comm?issioners.

District 2 consists of most of western Jersey City and part of downtown. The seat is currently occupied by Commissioner Bill O’Dea.

“I am running for County Commissione?r because our people deserve an option at the ballot box,�?Ghainda said. “We deserve to have the working-class represented not only by everyday people but to also have our voices heard in every political process�?

Ghainda is a Jersey City native and a graduate from New Jersey City University Class of 2020. He is currently the Special ?Projects Director for Voters of Tomorrow New Jersey, the former State Delegate for the Progressive Democrats of Hudson County and former member of the Board of Delegates for the Progressive Democrats of New Jersey.

“I was born and raised in Jersey City and I’ve seen the toll it’s taken on friends, family, and neighbors who were pushed out of our county because of how unaffordable it became,” Ghainda said. “We deserve to have our elected officials advocating to keep us in the place we’ve called home instead of selling us out for a pretty penny.�?/p>

Ghainda has also served as a Field Coordinator for the Hudson County Democratic Socialists of America’s Right to Counsel campaign. His announcement came with a glowing endorsement from a fellow progressive, act?ivist and?? former candidate for New Jersey’s 8th Congressional District Ricardo Rojas.

“Adrian is one of the most kind and selfless people I have ever had the blessing to work with,” Rojas said. “He is a true organizer at heart who understands that the injustices of the morally bankrupt system and those who prop it up are not resolved by the charity of a single individual, but through building community through solidarity. He is a man wise beyond his years, who I am confident will bring truly inclusive, truly progressive vision for the 2nd District so that every neighbor no matter their place of origin or socioeconomic class can call this place “home�? now and in years to come.”

For more information about his campaign, go online to adrianghaindanj.com.

Progressives challenge incumbent establishment Democrats

Mamta Singh has recentlyannounced she is running for Hudson Cou?nty Commissioner for District 4. District 4 encompasses Jersey City Wards D and C and part of Ward E, currently represented by Yraida Aponte-Lipski.

Singh is a mom and Jersey City resident for the past 14 years who  founded local?? non-profit JCFamilies ??Inc., a 501(c)3 that connects families in aims to enhance residents�?parenting experience. In addition to her work with JCFamilies, Singh is an active member of the Hamilton Park community, and serves on the County Committee.

Singh’s vision includes increasing climate? resilience, revitalizing public transportation, ensuring District 4 remains an affordable community to raise a family, and ensuring the County’s $600 million budget is managed “fairly, transparently, and to directly benefit the community.�?Her announcement came with an endorsement by Jersey City Ward E Councilman James Solomon, a progressive figure in local politics.

For more information about her campaign, go online to mamtasingforjc.com.

In addition, Ron Bautista is running for Hudson County Commiss??ioner for District 5, having announced his candidacy in July. The District includes Hoboken and the downtown Jersey City waterfront, currently held by Vic??e Chairman Anthony Romano.

Bautista, of the Progressive Democrats of Hudson County, is again challenging Romano for the seat. He previously took on Romano in the primary in 2020, drawing in 38.5 percent of votes to Romano’s 61.3???? percent.

Prior to that, Bautista was a candidate in a few local municipal elections. He ran for mayor of Hoboken in 2017, and for the Third Ward seat on the City Counci?l in 2019. Since then, Bautista has been involved with progressives in Hudson County, being the President of the Progressive Democrats of Hudson County until just before announcing his campaign.

Bautista is running on a platform of “empowering everyday pe?ople, holistic public safety, and tackling the climate crisis,�?including: easy budgeting and accountable government; fair rents and legal representation for all tenants; a Hudson Count?y for people of all incomes; equity and inclusion for people with disabilities; no profiteering from immigrant family separation; safer streets for kids and for all; social services to prevent the criminalization of communities; addressing the mental health crisis; accountability and transparency in public safety; fighting for 100 renewable energy by 2030; and increase green, planted areas by 2030.

“When politicians are owned by political party bosses and big corporate donors, they’re afraid to address homelessness, fight for cleaner air and safer streets for everyone,” Bautista said. “We need a County Commissioner with the courage to serve everyday people, not the politicians.�?/p>

For more information about his campaign, go online to ronbautistanj.com.

They’re also fielding a County Executive challenger too

There is also a progressive challenger for the County Executive seat. Eleana Little, a community organizer and environmental engineer, has announced her candida?cy. Little is the former vice president of the Progressive Democrats of Hudson County, as well as ?the former president of the Harsimus Cove Association.

A longtime resident of Hudson County, Little is running on a platform focused on “the struggles faced by everyday people,” such as rising rents, flooding, crime, and affordability. She also aims to prioritize affordable housing, transit infrastructure and safe streets, water and environmental infrastructure, educational infrastructure, and public health infrastructure, which she said is needed for livable communities.

According to Little, she doesn’t take any money from corporate political action committees (PACs), real estate developers, or political bosses. She said her campaign is powered by “everyday people who believe that it’s time for a change in Hudson County.”

Most recently, Little unsuccessfully ran for Hudson County Commissioner in 2020. Although she was not on the “county line,�?meaning endorsed by the Hudson County Democratic Organization, she came close to beating Yraida Aponte-Lipski in the 4th District but ultimately lost by nearly a nine point margin with 4,117 votes for Apon??te-Lipski to 3,397 votes for Little.

Little’s announcement came with the backing of former progressive candidate for the 8th Congressional District Hector Oseguera. Incumbent County Executive Tom DeGise is retiring in 2023 and he and the rest of the Hudson County Democratic Organization have backed his long time Chief of Staff Craig Guy to succeed him.

Little will face off against Guy in June, after he officiall?y kicked off his campaign in September. It was expected that progressives would field some candidates for the June Primary, but it now appears a full slate may be forming to take on esta?blishment Democrats at the county level ahead of the November General Election.

For updates on this and other stories, check www.iccwins98.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at [email protected].

Appointed to the seat in 2018 following the resignation of former Assembly Speaker Vincent Prieto, Assemblyman Me??jia of Secaucus is currently serving his third full term. According to Mejia, he is the first Dominican-American to ??serve in the New Jersey State Legislature.

“Serving the people of the 32nd District in the State Assembly has been a wonderful honor and I am so proud of the difference we have made in the lives of the people of New Jersey,�?said Mejia. “Due to the changes in the district lines, I will not be running for re-election this year.”

Despite essentially being left out to pasture by the HCDO and their new slate for the new 33rd Legislative District post-legislative redistricting across the state, Mejia endorsed the candidates for the area of his former district including his replacement. That ticket includes current 32nd Legislative District State Senator since 2008 and Union City Mayor Brian Stack running for the Senate seat, West New York Mayor Gabriel Rodriguez running?? for one of the State Assembly seats, and North Bergen Revenue and Finance Commissi??oner Julio Marenco running for the other Assembly seat.

“I am fully supporting the Hudson County Democratic Organization team of Senator Brian Stack, Gabe Rodriguez and Julio Marenco for Assembly and I know that they will do an excellent job for the people of our community,” Mejia said. “I would like to thank Senator Nicholas Sacco, Mayor Michael Gonnelli, Chairman Anthony Vainieri and all of the Democratic leaders and voters in the county for giving me the opportunity to serve as the first Dominican-American legislator in New Jersey.”

HCDO thanks candidates for stepping aside

Hudson County Democratic Organization Chairman Anthony Vainieri, also Chairman of the Hudson County Board of Commissioners, publicly thanked Mejia as well as fellow departing Assemblywoman Annette Chaparro of the current 33rd Legislative District, who already announced that she will not seek re-election. The new 32n?d Legislativ??e District candidates are State Assemblyman Raj Mukherji for the Senate seat, and Jessica Ramirez and John Allen for the Assembly.

“Assemblywoman Chaparro and Assemblyman Mejia are distinguished public servants who have been important leaders in Hudson County,�?said Vainieri. “We’re sad to see Pedro and Annette leave elected office, but we know that they will always be part of the HCDO team. The HCDO has a dynamic new group of Assembly candidates who are ready to work alongside Senator Brian Stack and Assemblyman Raj Mukherji to deliver for the people of Hudson County, and we’re looking forward to supporting them in the Primary.”

Ramirez is a Jersey City resident and partner at the law firm D’Arcy Johnson Day, where she specializes in serious personal inju??ry,? sexual abuse, medical device and product liability litigation. She has served on the State Ethics Committee and as an Eminent Domain Commissioner.

Allen of Hoboken is the former Chief of Staff to Hoboken?? Mayor Ravi Bhalla and his predecessor Dawn Zimmer. He’s an attorney with the firm Schenck Price and also serves on a number of public bodies, including the Hudson County Planning Board and the Garden State Joint Insurance Fund.

The candidates for both the new 32nd and 33rd Legislative District were known publicly for months ahead of the official announcement. What was unclear is if the unendorsed incumbents would challe??nge the new HCDO-backed candidates, which is now evident they will not.

Chaparro not running for re-election either

Earlier this month, Chaparro indicated she would also not run against the HCDO-backed candidates for the other Ass??embly seat in the new 33rd Legislative District. She had previously intended for the voters to decide, but opted otherwise after the endorsements were announced, noting that she was glad her replacement was a Latina woman and that she would ?still be active in her community.

Chaparro, who is also employed at Hoboken City Hall, said that she brought a “unique perspective” to the State House as a single mom was born into and grew up in the Hoboken Housing Authority. Selected for the seat by former Hoboken Mayor Dawn Zimmer and largely able to stick around due to Stack’s political muscle, Bhalla ultimately got the final say here.

Chaparr??o said she will work hard in the Assembly until her term expires and also promised to help make it a smooth transition for the new legislators. She was first elected in 2015 and has served eight years in the Assembly prior to this.

“While my work is far from over, I wanted to thank the voters of the 33rd District for entrusting me to be their voice in Trenton for what will be eight years of service to the people of Hoboken, Jersey City, Union City, and Weehawken,�?Chaparro said. “As announcements regarding the political future of my seat were made, I wanted to let everyone know that I am committed to a hard-working 2023 and will still help my community in any capacity I can going forward…My work isn’t done in the Assembly, and it won’t be done when my term ends. I still want to be a voice for all the people who need help in my community. But as plans for the future are announced, I wanted to simply say a big THANK YOU to everyone who has supported me on this journey.�?/p>

Post-redistricting leadership shuffle nearly complete

Due to redistricting, State Senator Nicholas Sacco of the current 33rd Legislative District and Stack wound up in the same district. Instead of rehashing an old beef, Sacco decided to retire when his term is up after being in the State Senate since 1994 to focus on running f??or Mayor of North Bergen and endorse Stack, under a deal where North Bergen would choose one of the Assembly seats with the other ??remaining chosen by West New York.

This deal is what spelt the end for Mejia and Chaparro, as well as Assemblywoman Angelica Jimenez who has been in the other current 32nd Legislative District seat since 2012. However, now, they have all decided not to seek re-election, with Jimenez running for the West New York Board of Commissioners under a ticket with Commissioner of Public Affairs Cosmo Ciril?lo.

Meanwhile, 33rd Legislative District Assemblyman Raj Mukherji is seeking the State Sen??ate seat in the new 32nd Legislative District since February of 2022. Elected in 2013, he is now seeking a seat in the higher?? chamber of the state legislature.

With that announcement, all of the former State Assemblymembers left without a place on the HCDO “county line” have moved out of the way for the replacements. It remains to be seen if they will be challenged by progressives or if the establishment Democrats will waltz to victory unopposed in the Primary and then against Republicans in the General Election in the “deep blue” Hudson County.

In the 31st Legislative District, when it comes to State Senator Sandra Cunningham, State Assemblyman William Sampson, and State Assemblywoman Angela McKnight, Cunningham is expected to not run for re-election due to her hospitalization for unnamed health issues in the wake of dropped DWI charges in 2022 and Sampson recently had his crane operator license revoked by the Waterfront Commission of New York Harbor and was removed from the waterfront as a longshoreman after “excessive absenteeism,” although he is appealing the decision. However, the HCDO has not yet backed anyone in the district and said when announcing the other candidates that it will make clear its endorsements for that district in the future.

For updates on this and other stories, check www.iccwins98.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at [email protected].

The day after the meeting, Vainieri took to social media to post a statement: “Yesterday, I was sworn is as the Chairperson of the Hudson County Board of Commissioners. This is the 7th year in a row and I’m proud and honored to serve the residents of Hudson County. I’d like to thank all my colleagues for their vote of confidence in me and special thank you to North Bergen Mayor Nick Sacco and Secaucus Mayor Mike Gonnelli for the support that they have always given me to represent their municipalities.�?/p>

Vainieri has now held the position for seven consecutive ter?ms, tied with the record for the most in Hudson Co??unty. He is the second person to do so, tied with former Chairman Sal Vega.

The former West New York Mayor and State Assemblyman was chairman of th??e board from 1999 and 2006. If Vainieri is re-elected to the ??board and elected again to the leadership position in 2024, he will overtake Vega for the record with eight consecutive terms.

Other leadership elected

Anthony L. Romano, who represents all of Hoboken and a part of Jersey City was re-elected Vice-Chairperson of the Board of Commissioners. Commissioner Jerry Walker who represents part?s of Jersey City was elected Chairperson Pro-Tempore.

That is the same leadership the board has maintained since 2021. Walker was also designated as Voting Member for the Hudson County Board of Commissioners to attend all meetings?? and conferences of the New Jersey Association of Countie?s for 2023.

In addition, Commissione??r Fanny Cedeno who represents Union City was designated as Second Alternate Voting Member to the New Jersey Association of Counties for the year 2023. Hudso?n County Administrator Abe Antun was designated Alternate Voting Member to the New Jersey Association of Counties for the year 2023.

All nine county commissioners are up for re-election in 2023, with a number of progressive challengers declaring their intent to run for a number of seats on the board held by the establishment Democrats as well as for County Executive.

While Vainieri could make history as the longest serving Chairman on the board, that may not be the path he takes. There could also be a change up with an opening on the Board of Commissioners in North Bergen, which Vainieri could run for with the departure of Commissioner Julio Marenco running for State Assembly in the new 33rd Legislative District. 

Vainieri has long been thought to be the mayoral successor to Sacco in North Bergen. While Sacco, who is retiring from State Senate, has made clear he will run for re-election in 2023, Vainieri’s additi??on to the board could clear the way for a potential?? mayoral run after Sacco retires as mayor.

However, Vainieri has not yet ?made clear his intentions.

For updates on this and other stories, check www.iccwins98.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at [email protected].

Francisco Realpe, a 45-year-old from Hoboken, pleaded guilty last year as previously reported by the Hudson Reporter, to sexually assaulting tw??o female students whil??e he was a teacher in Union City and Jersey City.

He will se?rve concurrent four year sentences for each count charged.

Under the current charges, he will be subject to Megan’s Law and Parole Supervision for Life. He has forfeited his right to current and future public employment and permanent restraining orders are in place to protect both victims from him, according to the statement put out by the Prosecutor’s Office.

The first victim reported being sexually assaulted in November 2019 while Realpe was a teacher at Dickinson High School in Jersey City. Shortly after Realpe’s arrest, the second victim reported being sexually assaulted in 2004 while a student at U?nion Hill High School in Union City.

Both victims were 17 at the time of the assaults. The? state was represented in this case by Hudson County Assistant Prosecutor Jane Weiner.

“The Special Victims Unit is thankful for the cooperation of the victims who were brave enough to come forward and disclose the crimes committed on them,�?said Weiner. “As a teacher, the defendant is held to a higher standard of professionalism and a sentence of incarceration is appropriate in this matter.�?/p>

For updates on this and other stories, check www.iccwins98.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Jordan Coll can be reached at [email protected].