Future Policy Based on Past Accomplishments

Throughout my five-plus years on the council, I have been in the minority – often alone – fighting against the political machine. Why do I fight? So that our government is truly representing your interests and not the self-serving interests of office-holders and their friends, families and contributors. Here are some highlights of what I've been able to accomplish:

Open & Transparent Government

Sponsored and passed a resolution that severely restricts special interest contributions to politicians in Jersey City - better known as the "Pay to Play" reform.
Sponsored and passed a resolution creating open and transparent tax abatement committee meetings that were previously closed the public.
Fought against high salaries of political appointees, excessive hiring and out of control spending.

We can't afford "politics as usual" in Jersey City any longer. I have fought – and will continue to fight hard – to make sure government is working for the people. Our government should not function as a personal ATM for its elected officials.

Education

Took the leading role on the council in education reform and supported a new, innovative charter school in Jersey City.
Persuaded the City Council to support earmarking a greater portion of abatement revenue for education programs in Jersey City.
Former board member of the Learning Community Charter School.
Played a leading role on the council in stopping unethical out-of-district placements at Dr. Ronald E. McNair Academic High School which were displacing Jersey City residents.

I have been fortunate enough to attend some outstanding schools and have benefited tremendously from these opportunities. My views on education are shaped by these experiences and I truly believe that fixing the long-standing problems of the city begins with providing quality education to our children.

Taxes

Advocated for the city's first hiring freeze.
Only voice against earmarking revenue streams to offset bonding.
Lone councilperson to stand up to mayor to stop planned real-estate transfer tax.
Consistent record of advocating against unnecessary waterfront tax abatements.
Clear record of not supporting budgets that include unnecessary tax hikes.
Tireless advocate for removal of costly political entitlements.

We need to think creatively about new revenue sources and opportunities for shared services. Raising taxes shouldn't be the first option in addressing budget shortfalls and my voting record on the council reflects this belief.

Safety

Proponent of accountability and reform within Police and Fire Departments. Lacking the support of my colleagues on the council, I was the only councilperson to rally public support and pressure the police chief towards resignation due to poor performance.
Sponsored and passed legislation that has more than doubled the street facing security cameras to ensure resident safety.
Implemented the first high-rise fire department unit in the history of the city.
Passed the first mandatory day care lead poisoning testing in the state.

Protecting our citizens – particularly our seniors and most vulnerable - is the most important job our government has. I have been an advocate of measures that use our police and fire personnel in ways they can be most responsive and effective.