Nora: "WE must do the work" to push for Monarch settlement (because Fisher can't)

Yesterday, 2nd Ward candidate Nora Martinez DeBenedetto updated her ward on Mayor Bhalla's settlement agreement between the City of Hoboken and Applied Development Company (owner of the Monarch property.)   The settlement: in exchange for building out on the pier, Applied will be granted development rights to build on top of the downtown municipal garage, and will re-build the garage. At no cost to taxpayers.  The City will take ownership of the Monarch property which could then be used for open, public space.  

There are a few hurdles before this deal is done, and the City takes over the Monarch piers. 

(1) the settlement agreement must be approved by the Council in August

(2) the City then enters into a redevelopment agreement with Applied, which would authorize all of the terms of the settlement, which goes back for Council approval. 

FISHER CAN'T VOTE, CAN'T REPRESENT THE 2ND WARD ON THE MONARCH SETTLEMENT  

As Nora reminded residents: "the Second Ward must have a voice in this battle. 

With Tiffanie Fisher on the Council, they don't. Fisher can neither vote on the settlement nor represent her constituents' interests because as a Tea Building property owner, she has  a fiduciary interest in the settlement outcome. That is the truth.   

Nora not only has no conflict of interest, she has said, "preventing residential development on our waterfront at the Monarch site is one of my top priorities, as it represents a public health hazard, plain and simple."

NORA: "WE MUST DO THE WORK"- 3 THINGS YOU CAN DO

Without a voice to represent 2nd ward residents on the council, Nora has suggested 3 things that residents can do to "convince at least five of the remaining eight eligible council members to vote for this settlement."  They are:

1. Contact all the city council members and tell them that you support this deal! This way we can ensure that we have the votes we need. 
2. Come out to the City Council meeting to advocate for this settlement! (The date is TBD–  Nora will  keep you posted on her Facebook page)
3. SIGN THIS PETITION by resident activist Mary Duffy to show the City Council that there is widespread support for this settlement. It takes 20 seconds to complete – please also share with your friends!

Thanks for the great advice, Nora. #2ndWardChange