Today, state-appointed Hoboken fiscal monitor Judy Tripodi told the Reporter that in trying to cut the Hoboken budget in the future, there may be some layoffs of police and firefighters. However, she was not specific about numbers or any timeline.
Councilman Peter Cammarano, who is running for mayor, has submitted a press release in response to press reports this week about potential cuts in those areas.
Here it is: “Cammarano Condemns State Monitor’s Plan to Lay-off Police & Firefighters”
“This is Not About Cutting Fat From a Budget…It’s About Keeping Our Families Safe”
“In light of the State monitor’s recently announced plan to lay-off public safety officers, Peter Cammarano today strongly came out against firing Ho boken’s police officers and firefighters.
“’No task is more important in government than the protection of public safety. Nothing is more important than the safety and security of Hoboken’s families,” said Cammarano. “I am entirely in favor of cutting waste, nepotism and cronyism to bring about a leaner, more efficient government. And that is exactly what I will do as Mayor. However, this is not about cutting fat from a budget. It’s about keeping our families safe.’” he said.
“Unfortunately, the City of Hoboken is powerless to stop the State monitor from laying off public safety workers, because last year the City Council abdicated its financial responsibility to the State when a majority failed to pass a budget and instead voted for a state takeover.
“Council-at-large candidate Angel Alicea joined Cammarano in condemning the State monitor’s plan. Alicea currently serves as an Internal Affairs Officer in Union City and is a decorated police officer with over 25 years of experience in law enforcement. He is also a former Chair of the Hoboken Housing Authority.”