The funds, part of the 2024 Passenger Ferry Grant Program, will be used to install a wave attenuator—a barrier that helps protect ferries from damage caused by waves, high?? tides, and floods.

Essentially, the goal is to keep the ferry services running smoothly and safely for the thousands of commuters ??who rely on them daily.

Strengthening the Weehawken Facility Against Extreme Weather

Many New Jersey commuters rely on the Hudson River ferries, and, thankfully, this g??rant will help keep them safe from harsh weather.

The new wave attenuator at the Weehawken facility will act as a shield, preventing strong waves and high water level??s?? from damaging the boats and interrupting service.

Armand Pohan, CEO of NY Waterway, thanked state and federal partners for understanding the importance of this project, especially its potential to prote?ct the ferry s??ystem and help safeguard the Weehawken shoreline.

Collaboration for Safer, More Reliable Transit

In a move towards safer, more reliable transit, NJ Transit President Kevin Corbett expressed satisfaction in supporting NY Waterway’s efforts to secure federal funding.

This $6.32 million grant is part of a larger $300 million package? from the U.S. Department of Transportation to improve ferry systems nationw??ide.

Focused on improving transportation, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA??) wants? to make ferry services more resilient to extreme weather.

At the same time, they aim to modernize?? the facilities to meet the needs of today’s commuters.

Federal Support for Upgrading Ferry Services Nationwide

Funded through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Weehawken project is one of many that will benefit. Not to mention, this initiative involves $300 million in federal fund??ing.

It’s c??lear that ferries are vital to many communities, offering critical transport solutions with scarce alternatives.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg explained that this funding aims to make ferry services more reliable and eco-friendly. Additionally, it seeks to protect the waterw?ays that many people depend on.

The FTA is spreading this money across 18 projects in 14 states. To ?support these initiatives, the projects will replace old ferries with new electric ones, expand fleets, and improve docks and terminals.

Plus, eight of these projects will focus on introducing environmentally fr?iendly propulsion technologies, like electric-powered ferries and charging stations.

Moving Toward Greener, Cleaner Ferry Operations

The FT??A plans to improv??e ferry services and make them greener by encouraging the use of electric and low-emission ferries.

With this shift, they aim to reduce air pollution ????and make ferry travel more environmentally friendly.

For example, San Francisco is get?ting funding to build new electric ferries, and Al?aska will replace aging vessels with eco-friendly models.

A Long-Needed Solution for Weehawken and Beyond

Undoubtedly, installing the wave ?attenuator in Weehawken is a much-needed step toward protecting the ferry system and the local area.

Weehawken Mayor Richard Turner noted that local efforts have focused on making ferries cleaner and quieter, hoping this project will address concerns about pollution and noise.

While the Weehawken facility is being upgraded, NY Waterway’s ferry maintenance operations are ??temporarily happening in Hoboken at the former Union Dry Dock site.

So, this site will temporarily be used for ferry repairs and refueling until the new f?acility in Weehawke??n is ready.

Future Plans for Hoboken and Maritime Park

As NY Waterway prepares to move back to W??eehawken, Hoboken is moving forward with its plan to turn the Union Dry Dock site into a public park called Maritime Park.

Construction will ??start next summer on the park?, including a skatepark and other features.

With the $6.32 million grant secured, the Weehawken ferry facility is getting a much-needed upgrade, ensuring safer, more?? reliable, and environmentally friendly ferry services for the future.

As these upgrades take place, commuters and the local community can look forward to a stro??nger ferry system that’s better prepared for whatever comes next.

The project, 1800?? Aven?ue at Port Imperial, will bring 282 high-end condo units to this growing neighborhood.

Construction has officially started, and the building is set to be c??ompleted by summer 2026.

The developer, WHK Waterfront Urban Renewal LLC, recently announced the start o?f construction.

In an exciting step forward, this development is one of the final pieces of the puzzle for the Port Imperial area, a neighborhood steadily growing with new homes, shops, and public spa?ces.

$313 Million Investment with Stunning Views of NYC

?The development has secured $210 million in financing, ??including loans from Benefit Street Partners.

Given the scale of the investment, this big project is ex??pected to cost $313 million overall and i??s poised to become one of the standout buildings in the area.

Designed by Handel Architects, the building will feature? floor-to-ceiling windows with curved edges, giving res??idents jaw-dropping views of the New York City skyline across the river.

Luxury Living with Top-Notch Amenities

1800 Avenue at Port Imper??ial will feature luxury amenities that bring a first-class living experience to its residents.

The building will have 45,000 square feet of amenities, including indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness cente?r, a spa, a private movie room, and even a pet center?.

There will also be basketball courts and golf simulators f?or those who love staying active.

T??he outdoor areas will feature dining spots, fire pits, an??d plenty of seating for relaxing and enjoying the view.

All these amenities are designed to give residents a resort-like liv?ing experience, allowing them to enjoy active lifestyles and leisurely relaxation.

Whether you’re in the mood for a workout, a swim, or just taking in the city skyline, there’s something here for every lifestyle.

Prime Location in a Growing Neighborhood

The development is located on one o??f the last open parcels of land i??n the Port Imperial area, which stretches 2.5 miles along the Hudson River.

This waterfront neighborhood ??has over 7,500 homes, two Marriot??t hotels, and plenty of shops and public parks.

It’s an attractive area for luxury living, and t?he new condos will be within walk??ing distance of the Port Imperial Ferry and light rail stations, so residents can easily reach Manhattan in just a few minutes.

Port Imperial has also become a popular spot for its 2-mile-long riverfront walkway, offering stun??ning views of the Manhattan skyline and a relaxing place for residents to enjoy the outdoors.

As the area grows, 1800 Aven?ue will be a key p?art of its transformation.

Construction Team and Real Estate Partners

Plaza Construction, one of the biggest construction management firms in the country,?? is the general contractor on this project.

They’re working with top consultants, including Ha??ndel Architects, DeSimone Consulting Engineering, and Thomas Police Consulting Engine??ers, to bring the building to life.

On the sales front, the real estate company Christie’s International Real Estate Group handles the sales and marketing of condos. And they expect high interest fr?om buyers lo??oking for luxury living in a prime location.

A Bright Future for Weehawken’s Waterfront

The 1800 Avenue ?development is one of the final projects in the rapidly growing Port Imper?ial area.

With its modern design, fanta?stic amenities, and unbeatable location, it’s set to be one of the most sought-after places to live along the Weehawken waterfront.

When i?t’s?? finished in summer 2026, residents will have easy access to the peaceful waterfront and the hustle and bustle of New York City.

As an exciting addition to the area, this develo??pment offers luxury living, unmatched convenience, and stunning views. Thus, it’s a prime choice for those who want the best of both worlds.

The quiet streets were suddenly filled with police as they raced to the scene. Thankfully, this led to a quick arrest and the beginning of a thorough investigation by the Hudson County Prosecutor�??????????????????????????�s Office.

Death of 24-Year-Old Jhonnier Gamboa Acosta

Around 7 p.m. on August 15, 2024, the Weehawken Police received reports of gunshots near Park Avenue, between? 37th and 41st? Streets.

Though this area is typ?ically calm and residential, it was suddenly the site of a tragic shooting. When officers arrived, they found 24-?year-old Jhonnier Gamboa Acosta with multiple gunshot wounds.

Acosta was rushed to Jersey City Medical Center, but sadly, he was pronounced dead a??t 8:14 p.m. The Medical Examiner’s Offic??e is still looking into the exact details of how he died.

67-Year-Old Juan Perez Arrested and Charged

Police from Weehawken and Union City acted quickly and arrested a suspect near the scene. The suspect, 67-year-old Juan Perez, was taken into custody and has been charged with murder, along with charges related to illegal weapon?? po?ssession.

Perez is currently being held at the Hudson County Correctional Facilit?y w?hile he waits for his first court hearing.

Moving forward, the legal process will determine his fate, given that he faces serious charges that have drawn signif??icant attention.

Community Reactions and Investigations Continue

Of course, the shooting has ?shaken the Weehawken community �?an area generally known for being safe and peaceful.

The investi??gation is ongoing as authorities try to understand why this happened and whe?ther any other details need to be uncovered.

Hudson ?County Prosecutor Esther Suarez praised the quick work of the Homicide Unit??, the Weehawken Police Department, and the Union City Police Department, who worked together to arrest Perez.

However, she also reminded everyone that Pe??rez is conside??red innocent until proven guilty in court.

Unfortunately, this shooting is a sad reminder that violence can happen anywhere, even in places where it’s least expected.

Now, the community will be closely watching as the l??egal process continues, and investig??ators will try to find out exactly what led to this tragic incident.

This project is a big deal as it’s the largest public transportation investment in U.S. history, made ?possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

This visit was all about checking on the progress of this game-changing project, which is?? set to bring huge improvements to the region.

$12 Billion for Better Transit

The Gateway Project is set to make a huge difference in transportation for New Jersey and ??the entire East Coast.

The federal government is investing more than $12 billion in this project, much of it toward building a new Hudson Tunnel.

During their visit, Ki??m and Menendez got a firsthand look at critical spots, such as staging areas, fan plants, and the paths leading to the new Hudson Tunnel.

This tunnel will help fix long-standing issues with the area’s transportation system, which affects millions of people and many businesses.

Congressman Andy Kim made it clear how important this? project is.

Jobs, Environmental Benefits, and a Stronger Economy

Congressman Menendez ??agree?d, saying that this project will bring big changes.

He pointed out that this investment will do more than improve transit—it will create thousands of good jobs, help tackle climat??e change, and strengthen our infrastructure. Essentially, this project should improve life for everyone in New Jersey and beyond.

As the state’s ??current transit system has been outdated for too long, this pro??ject will finally provide the upgrades people have been waiting for.

The new jobs will also greatly help ??the local economy, offering steady, good-paying work to many families.

Another major win is the environmental aspect. As we all k??now, climate change is a big issue, an??d this project takes a step toward making travel greener.

Thankfully, the Gateway Project aims to enhance public transit and cut emission?s—steps that help protect o?ur environment and strengthen our infrastructure for future challenges.

Working Together for New Jersey’s Future

Congressmen Kim and Menendez’s teamwork shows a shared vision for a better New Jersey.

Despite the political issues surroun?ding the state, especially with the recent news about Senator Bob Menendez, Rob’s father, these two leaders are focused on makin??g sure the state’s infrastructure gets the upgrades it needs.

Since the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed in 2021, Congressman Kim has been pushing to ensure New Jers?ey gets its fair share of the funds.

He’s been primarily focused on key projects like the Hudson Tunnel and improving Amtrak and NJ Transit services.

What’s great is that his work on various committees has helped direct this money where it’s needed most, so that New Jersey’s infrastructure can meet future d??emands.

As they collaborate to ensure the project’s success, their efforts highlight the impact this investment will have on shaping the future of transportation on the East Coast.

In a nutshell, the Gateway Project is set to improve the lives of millions, create jobs, and build a stronger infrastru?cture for the futu??re.

Learn more about th??ese exciting plans?? and how you can get involved.

Upgrades Planned for Weehawken Cove

Mayor Ravi Bhalla has shared new plans to upgrade Hoboken’s waterfront at Weehawken Cove. This is the third phase of the cove restor?ation project.

Following the removal of 14 abandoned boats in 2022, the city is set to enhance the scenery, recreational amenities, and na??tural environment along the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway between Park Avenue and 16th Street.

The planned improvements include:

• Re-grading the Sand Beach: This will improve water access for various water activities.
• Installing a 7,000-square-foot Tidal Pool: This ecologically rich pool will consist of shallow waters, mudflats, and salt marshes, creating diverse habitats for wildlife.
• Adding Plants and Natural Elements: New plants will restore natural habitats for local plants and marine life.

Benefits of the ‘Living Shoreline’ at Weehawken Cove

This part of the project will create a protected shoreline using natural materials like plants, sand, and rocks. This ‘living shoreline’ has many benefits:

• It helps prevent the shoreline from wearing away
• It makes the water in the Hudson River cleaner
• It helps store carbon emissions
• It cleans the local environment by capturing harmful substances
• It brings in new wildlife and boosts biodiversity

Weehawken Cove Project: What to Expect

Construction on the living shoreline, funded by the Hudson County Open Sp??ace Trust Fund, is scheduled to begin next year. The project will feature a tidal pool with microhabitats supporting wildlife and biodiversity.

Native plants like smooth cordgrass and saltmeadow cord??grass will stabilize the soil and r??educe erosion.

Invertebrates such as fiddler crabs and ribbed mussels will e??nhance the ecosystem by prom??oting nutrient cycling and water filtration.

The city will?? collaborate with Stevens Institute of Technology st?udents and staff for planning and implementation.

They will monitor the ecological impacts before, during, and after construction. Additionally, residents are en?couraged to email [email protected] with feedback on the project.

Based on public feedback, the city will refine the design and aim t?o award a construction contract in the summer of 2025.

Boosting Hoboken’s Waterfront with Weehawken Cove Restoration

The Weehawken Cove Restor?ation project builds on previous efforts to improve Hoboken’s Waterfront.

Last year, Hoboken and the NJ Depar??tment of Environmental Protection started work on Harborside Park as part of the Rebuild by Design project.

Harborsi??de Park, next to Weehawken Cove, will have open-air amenities like a dog run and amphitheater, as well as flood protection during storms like Super??storm Sandy.

By upgrading the waterfront with these plans, Hoboken continues to make its environment and recreational areas better, ensuring a g?reat future for both residents and wildlife.

Serious Crash in Weehawken Leaves Three Severely Injured

On Friday night, July 5, 2024, a hit-and-run crash in Weehawken ?left three individuals with severe inj?uries.

According to Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez, the inciden?t occurred around 9:50 p.m. at the intersection of Avenue at Port Imperial and Port Imperial Boulevard.

Luis Tubac-Socoy, a 25-year-old man from Passaic, was driving a Ford F-350 when he collided ??with a Honda CRV.

The impact resulted in on?e passenger of the Honda, an 80-year-old woman from Nor?th Bergen, sustaining serious injuries. Four other occupants of the Honda experienced minor injuries.

Tubac-Socoy’s Escape Attempt and Arrest

After t??he initial collision, Tubac-Socoy attem??pted to flee the scene in his truck.

In his attempt to escape, he struck two female pedestrians, a 78-y?ear-old woman from North Ber?gen and a 70-year-old woman from Florida.

Both women suffered serious injuries and were tra??nsported to Jersey City Medical Center for treatment.

??Following these events, Tubac-Socoy abandoned his vehicle and fled on foot.

The police did not detail how he was found, but he w??as subsequently arrested by the Weehawken Police Department.

Charges Against Tubac-Socoy and Ongoing Investigation

Luis Tubac-Socoy has been charged with multiple offenses, including three ??counts of assault by auto, two counts of leaving the scene of a motor vehicle collision resulting in serious bodily injury, and one count of aggravated assault.

He has also been issued several motor vehicle summ?onses.

These charges are accusations, and Tubac??-Socoy is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

The Hudson County Regional Collision Investigation Unit and the Weehawken Police Department are investigating t?he incident.

Prosecutor Suarez cre??dited the Weehawken Police De??partment for their swift arrest of Tubac-Socoy.

Tubac-Socoy Faces Multiple Charges After Incident

The Weehawken community has expressed co?ncern over the safety of pedestrians and drivers in the area.

This incident has prompted discussions ?on implementing additional safety measures to prevent s??imilar accidents in the future.

Local authorities are reviewing traffic patterns and considering ??enhanced signage and pedestrian crossings to ensure the safety of residents and visitor??s.

The investigation into the crash continues as authorities work to piece together the events leading up to and following the collision. The Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office encourages anyone with information about the incident to come forward to assist with the investigation.

Weehawken’s Latest Dining Sensations

Weehawken is about to get a new place to dine, Drift Restaurant & Bar. This spot is all about giving people a taste of the good old days and amazing views. It’s opening where Houlihan’s used to be in Lincoln Harbor. They’re planning to make eating by the water something really special.

The Arrival of Drift Restaurant & Bar

Drift Restaurant & Bar is set up at 1200 Harbor Boulevard by the beautiful Hudson River. This place is known for its great views, like the spot where Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr had their famous showdown and full of history. Jeremy Casilli, the guy who started Hudson & Co. in Jersey City, among other popular places, is leading this new project. They’ve already started building to create a welcoming outdoor area for eating and a lively, new look that’s taking over from what Houlihan’s left behind. The exact date it’ll open isn’t clear yet, but there’s a lot of excitement for what it will bring to Weehawken’s places to eat.

The Charm of Beneci’s

As Drift Restaurant & Bar prepares to splash in Weehawken, Beneci’s keeps winning hearts with its cozy Italian-American classics, all in front of the stunning New York City skyline. This place is like a ?time machine, taking you back with every bite into a world where the joy of eating meets breathtaking views. Beneci’s, known for its top-notch food and vibe, continues to be a go-to for anyone after an unforgettable meal in Weehawken.

Drift Restaurant & Bar and Beneci’s are shining examples of what makes Weehawken special for food lovers and scenery seekers. With Drift about to join the scene, it’s boosting Weehawken’s reputation as the ultimate spot for tasty adventures and eye-catching sights. This shift in Lin?coln Harbor’s food scene shows off the lively spirit of Weehawken and its evolution into a haven for outstanding dining experiences.

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 Schools of Technology Board of Education, and chief of staff to DeGise.

Guy also serves as the treasurer of the Hudson County Democratic Organiza??tion. Guy said he will work to keep county property taxes stable, expand education, and improve parks and other public recreation sp?aces 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 County Executive. A?? Jersey City native, Florence Holmes is a prominent leader and advocate in her commu??nity.

“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 l??ine,�?meaning endorsed by the Hudson 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 point ??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 holders.

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 Albert Cifelli.

As a non-profit leader and former Sergeant 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 ot?hers, Alex’s mother immigrated to Hudson County seeking better op??portunities and the American Dream for her children. He was born and raised 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 programs 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 refugee??s 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 camp?aign for public office for the District 2? seat on the Hudson County Board of Commissioners.

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 Commissioner 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 Ne??w 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 announcemen?t came with a glowing endorsement from a fell?ow progressive, activist 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 runnin??g for Hudson County 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 activ?e 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 Comm??issioner for?? District 5, having announced his candidacy in July. The District includes Hoboken and the downtown Jersey City waterfront, currently held by Vice Chairman Anthony Romano.

Bautista, of the P?rogressive 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 candida??te in a few local municipal elections. He? ran for mayor of Hoboken in 2017, and for the Third Ward seat on the City Council 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 people, holistic public safety, and tackling the cl??imate crisis,�?including: easy budgeting and accountable government; fair rents and legal representation for all tenants; a Hudson County 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 h?ealth 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 candidacy. Little is the form??er vice president of the Progressive Democrats of Hud?son 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 b??y the Hudson County Democratic Organization, she came clo??se to beating Yraida Aponte-Lipski in the 4th District but ultimately lost by nearly a nine point margin with 4,117 votes for Aponte-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 officially 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 establishment 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].