Dear Editor:
A simple “thank you” to all those who joined with me in supporting our successful effort to implement a relevant Affordable Housing Ordinance that serves to update the previous legislation which was enacted in 1988. It is vitally important to address the basic needs of long-time residents, many who are raising families, who are facing the sobering reality that they can no longer to afford to remain in Hoboken due to escalating property values.
As most residents know, the affordable housing issue hit a tipping point in 1985 and led to the ushering of the reform Vezzetti administration, as was illustrated in the award winning documentary “Delivered Vacant.” A key architect of the 1988 affordable housing legislation was then Councilman Joseph DellaFave. I would like to thank Joe for stepping forward this summer in supporting the new Affordable Housing Ordinance, which was unanimously approved on September 5th.
The approval was a community effort, which I was pleased to help facilitate as a Council member. There were many responsible for its passage. I would also like to thank Hoboken resident Mike Evers and Kevin Walsh of Fair Share Housing, April Harris, the Hoboken Clergy Coalition, the Hoboken NAACP and all others who gave their much need support.
Lastly, I would like to thank the council majority for reconsidering their previous stance to hold-off ratification in favor of more studies and review. This is an issue that could not be delayed and an ordinance template that has already been adopted by over 200 New Jersey communities without legal challenge.
As we move forward, we must understand that Hoboken is a vibrant and diverse socio-economic community that embraces diversity. Adoption of this ordinance is proof that we care.
Theresa Castellano,
First Word Councilwoman.