Dear Editor:
As Mayor, it is my absolute obligation to ensure the public safety of our community and work to improve the quality of life for all Hoboken residents. I take these responsibilities very seriously, and that is why I am writing to discuss some important issues.
First, as many people know, my administration made the decision to require the Hoboken St. Patrick’s Day parade to be held on a Wednesday next year. This decision is the result of two years of trying everything possible to ensure an enjoyable and safe parade day for all Hoboken residents. Despite the very best efforts of everyone, including the Parade Committee, who planned a beautiful parade that I was proud to march in, the bar and restaurant owners who did their part and hired extra security, a zero tolerance policy, and the efforts of my Administration to provide increased security, an unsafe environment ensued throughout our city.
Our hospital saw a record number of admissions. In one weekend alone, two alleged sexual assaults were reported. This is an alarming situation, especially considering the fact that in 2008, 2009, and 2010 there were only three reported sexual assaults total for each entire year. On top of this, I learned that our firemen were put in danger, and quite literally could have been killed or seriously injured.
After a debriefing with Chief Falco, Chief Blohm, and my directors, we decided we must take further action to try to reclaim the parade as a true celebration of Hoboken’s Irish heritage that can be enjoyed by all. I am reaching out to the parade committee and the hospitality industry to further explain and discuss this decision. It is my strong belief that we can work together to ensure that people want to visit our city 365 days a year, and not just on Hoboken St. Patrick’s Day, and that it is possible for our hospitality industry to prosper, for tourism to increase, and for our local economy to grow while maintaining the safety of both residents and visitors.
Next Wednesday, the council will be conducting a hearing on a $20 million bond ordinance for the acquisition of open space. By funding the bond with the Open Space Trust Fund that Councilman Cunningham and I fought hard to create several years ago, this will not cost one additional tax dollar. Six votes are needed for this bond ordinance, and in the prior council meeting, only five council members voted for the measure. This bond ordinance is the tool that I need to conduct serious negotiations for the acquisition of property. Press releases and talk about open space will not bring us any closer to acquiring more park space. Passing this bond will.
Lastly, I want to let everyone know that we are putting a special focus on getting our city cleaned up. Please help us to get this done by moving your cars for street cleaning and making sure to clean up your sidewalks, which includes 1 1/2 feet into the street.
Many thanks for working with us to improve the quality of life for all Hoboken residents.
Best regards,
Mayor Dawn Zimmer