Dear Editor:
The failure of the City Council has again put us in jeopardy. I am greatly concerned about the demotions and layoffs at the Fire Department, Police Department and City Hall. The audits of our city agencies and departments are not completed. Decisions regarding public safety without audits, credible and authoritative information is reckless.
There is authoritative opinion that our Police Department is understaffed. The demotions in the Fire Department may wind up closing two fire stations and with many recent fires, the effect on efficiency is unknown.
Our spending needs to be reigned in and the budget cut but these demotions and layoffs may not be needed. This time, people may be killed.
Public safety must be our top priority. Until we know the number of personnel needed to serve our community effectively, we must look at every option available to keep every person working. There must be other options.
Tax hikes, rent increases, $10.5 million in overspending, $4.2 million compliance error, cross-town bus cancelled and now our safety put in jeopardy. How many failures are we to endure? Failure does not deserve a vote. Our lives depend on it.
We need leadership. My administration will fight for the service Hoboken citizen’s need and deserve. I will fight to keep you safe.
Frank Orsini
Candidate for Mayor