Bayonne Council President and mayoral challenger Sharon Ashe-Nadrowski will run Board of Education Trustee Jodi Casais and PAL Executive Director KT Torello for the council-at-large seats on her ticket.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“I’m proud to announce Jodi Casais and KT Torello as my at-large running mates in the upcoming election – two individuals who have put service to Bayonne above themselves at every turn,” Nadrowski said in a statement.
“Both Jodi and KT have shown proven dedication to our community, a passion for making positive changes, and the ability to get things done. They know that City Hall needs a change, and the people of Bayonne need a voice in the room and a seat at the table once again.”
Prior to Casais’ time on the BOE, Jodi advocated for a fairer teachers’ contract and supported the creation of an elected school board.
In 2018, she ran for a seat on the board and after being elected, Casais helped deliver fairer contracts as a member of the school district’s negotiating committee for all labor agreements.
Outside of her role with the BOE, Casais has recently sounded the alarm about the city’s deal with United Water, now Suez Water.
“Having known and worked with Sharon for some time, I’m proud to join her team. She knows the residents of Bayonne are done expecting more, but receiving less from local leadership. It’s time we roll up our sleeves and get the job done for our neighbors and our community,” she said.
As for Torello, in his capacity with the PAL, he manages a 40-team youth basketball league, and 150-person day care program. As a lifelong resident, and having grown-up in Bayonne, KT knows the value that these types of programs bring to a community.
With over 30 years of experience maintaining and expanding programming for generations of PAL families, Torello is ready to bring his passion to City Hall and think creatively for the benefit of all Bayonne residents and taxpayers.
When he’s not working, Torello is an active member of many local organizations including: Friends of the Handicapped, Concerned Citizens of Bayonne, the Bayonne Knights of Columbus, and a host of others.
Additionally, Torello finds particular interest in working alongside community members with disabilities to ensure that their voices are heard, and their interests are served. Torello takes great pride in having established the Autism and Athletics Program.
“I’m excited to join Sharon’s team, and make positive changes for all of Bayonne. Making good things happen for people is what I love to do – it is my passion. With Sharon’s leadership, and the team we’re putting together, we’re going to make sure no one in Bayonne is left out or left behind,” stated Torello.
Nadrowski plans to announce her ward council running mates in the coming days for the May 10th municipal elections.
