Dear Editor:
I would like to congratulate all six of our Ward council members who recently took their oaths of office. I look forward to working with each of them as they address the needs and concerns of their constituents. As we start a new era in Hoboken, we begin a period of renewal. Now is the time to put policy above politics and work for all the citizens of Hoboken.
Hoboken is a city of neighborhoods and you, the City Council, speak for your neighbors. It is important that we, as a tight-knit community, work together. Constituents and elected officials working together forms the basis of our democracy. It’s important to all Hobokenites that we have a council willing to work together.
I would like this opportunity to outline a few of our initiatives. First and foremost, I am happy to announce that for the second consecutive year, we’ve held the line on municipal taxes.
This is a time of national austerity. We have been blessed at having avoiding this down-turn. But it’s time for us to do our part too. I have instructed my business administrator and directors to create a plan of austerity. We will look to provide cost cutting measures in every aspect of government operations while maintaining our present level of services and keeping the tax rate stable.
We have the opportunity to rebuild our schools and rebuild our historic ferry terminal and most important, build new parks. We have a quarter of a billion dollars in public investment committed to Hoboken. We will also implement a new Master Plan to spur economic development along our retail and commercial districts. Along with this, for the first time Hoboken will have a designated Arts District.
Our artists were the engine that powered Hoboken renaissance 20 years ago and we need to preserve and nourish those who remain. That was the essence of 720 Monroe Street which will provide for work and living spaces for its resident artists.
Our quality of life is improving. Our streets are cleaner and our community is safer.
My administration is committed to listening. I and every member of the city council care about ever resident and want all voices to be heard. Two years ago I ran on a platform of inclusion. I hope we can continue the dialogue which came from the debates and speeches during the recent campaign. I thank the winners and those who were unsuccessful for bringing this dialogue to the surface.
Now is the time to start fresh and get to work. Now is the time to work together and look to the future so we can make Hoboken the greatest city it can possibly be for today’s residents and future generations.
Mayor David Roberts