Sarah Bonilla is launching her campaign for Kearny 3rd Ward council today, with four other incumbents supporting her candidacy in the June 2nd primary.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“I grew up in Kearny and I’m raising my kids here now, so this race is deeply personal to me,” she said in a statement.
“I’ve spent my career making sure public health systems actually deliver for the people they’re supposed to serve, and I’m running to bring that same focus to our local government. I’m looking forward to getting out in the community, hearing from my neighbors, and earning their trust.”
Her announcement was expected after 3rd Ward Councilwoman Eileen Eckel announced on Tuesday that she wouldn’t be seeking re-election after 22 years of service, backing Bonilla to be her successor, as only HCV reported.
Bonilla currently leads the Essex County Office of Public Health Management’s efforts to achieve national public health accreditation.
She previously served as director of the Center of Excellence for Latino Health at Clara Maass Medical Center and as an adjunct professor at Montclair State University, where she taught courses on health equity and social justice.
“Sarah will bring strong, independent leadership to the Council,” stressed Eckel.
“She has an impressive background in public health, she’s invested in our community, and I know she’s committed to doing what’s best for everyone in Kearny. I couldn’t be prouder to support her as the candidate for the seat I’m retiring from, and I look forward to introducing her to our neighbors across the 3rd Ward.”
Additionally, 1st Ward Councilman George Zapata, 2nd Ward Councilman Dennis Solano, and 4th Ward Councilman Stathis Theodoropoulos said today that they would be running Bonilla on their “Team Kearny” slate.
“We’re thrilled to have Sarah Bonilla join the Team Kearny slate. Sarah has spent her career solving problems and getting results, and that’s what public service is all about. She’ll show up prepared to do the work on day one,” they said in a joint statement.
“We’re grateful for Eileen’s decades of service to the people of Kearny. We know that Sarah will pick up where Eileen left off and continue to be a strong advocate for Kearny families.”
Mayor Carol Jean Doyle has floated the possibility of running a slate against the incumbents, with the primary filing deadline set for March 23rd at 4 p.m.
