Hoboken parking director leaving; city gets new finance head
HOBOKEN – Hoboken Mayor Dawn Zimmer announced Tuesday that Transportation and Parking Director Ian Sacs will be leaving his position on Oct. 15, 2012.
Any position dealing with Hoboken’s famously strapped parking is bound to be a tough one, and Sacs found himself several times at the receiving end of ire from critics of the Zimmer administration. During his time, he championed initiatives like car-sharing and bike-friendly streets.
According to a press release from City Hall, Sacs recently informed Mayor Zimmer that he and his family are moving to Europe. He has agreed to assist with completing major ongoing projects on a consulting basis, according to the release.
“Ian put Hoboken on the map as a leader in progressive transportation initiatives,” said Zimmer. “He brought us new technologies like multi meters and an online permit sale system, started a nationally-recognized car-sharing program, set into motion years of roadway safety design improvements, expanded customer service hours, made our streets more accommodating for all users and reduced car crashes with pedestrians and bicyclists, eliminated garage waiting lists, and expanded our shuttle system and bicycling infrastructure. I can’t thank him enough for all he has done for Hoboken.”
“My choice is best for our family, yet nonetheless difficult,” said Director Sacs. “I thank Mayor Zimmer for the opportunity to serve Hoboken; it has been a sincere pleasure working alongside her team of stellar professionals.”
Also on Tuesday, Zimmer welcomed new Finance Director Solomon Steplight.
The press release said, “Mr. Steplight’s strong managerial experience includes serving as Assistant Finance Director in Newark and as Director of Finance, Strategy and Administration at a national nonprofit organization. His resume is available on the City website: www.hobokennj.org/docs/mayor/Steplight-Resume.pdf.”
“I thank Director Trasente for his service to Hoboken through a difficult time, for being a part of putting our finances back on track, and for agreeing to assist through a transition period,” said Mayor Zimmer. “During his time as Finance Director, we have made City Hall more efficient and seen a significant reduction in the municipal tax levy.”
Third Annual O’Connell’s Run to Cure Cystic Fibrosis to be held Sept. 15
HUDSON COUNTY – The Third Annual O’Connell’s Run To Cure Cystic Fibrosis, a 5K run in Union City and Weehawken, will be held Sept. 15 to help raise money to fight this often fatal disease. Runners and walkers start the race from Second Street and Palisade Avenue in Union City at 9:30 a.m. Registration on the day of the event begins at 7:30 a.m. but pre-registration is encouraged.
O’Connell’s Run, started in 2010 by Union City residents Maria and Bob O’Connell to raise awareness about Cystic Fibrosis, is a fast course that provides a great day out for runners and walkers alike. All of the proceeds from O’Connell’s Run 2011 will benefit The Cystic Fibrosis Center at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital.
Registration for the 5K is $20 prior to the race and $25 on the day of the event. Race fees are tax deductible. Participants can register online. The race takes place just a short walk from Hoboken.
A Kids’ Fun Run has been added to the 2012 event. Younger runners ages 5 through 13 will complete a half-mile out and back route starting at 10:30 a.m. For more information, visit www.oconnellsrun.com.