Former Jersey City Ward F Councilman Jermaine Robinson was sworn in as a Hudson County Board of Elections commissioner earlier today.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“I’m very excited, I think he’s going to be a great addition. The lack of African-American representation came up during the ward commission meetings and I’m glad it was addressed,” said Hudson County Board of Elections Clerk Michael Harper.
Harper noted that this is the first time a former elected official has joined the bi-partisan, six-member board during his 16-year tenure.
“I really truly enjoyed serving my community in Ward F, but I don’t want my service to end and I’m happy and proud to get the opportunity to be a part of the board of elections,” he told HCV this evening.
” … I’m just excited to serve my community the best way that I can.”
Democrats opted to reappoint Janet Lawra, while Robinson replaces Peter Horton. John Minella, Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop’s chief of staff, is the other Democratic appointee.
On the Republican side, Paul Castelli and Daniel Miqueli were reappointed, with Daniel Beckelman being the other Republican appointee.
The board of elections position is a part-time gig that pays approximately $22,000 a year.
Robinson, who also owns the Light Rail Cafe, was appointed to serve on the Jersey City Council in January 2017 and was easily elected with Fulop’s slate during the municipal elections 10 months later.
He lost decisively to Frank “Educational” Gilmore this past November in a three-way race that also included Vernon Richardson, an aide to Fulop.
Editor’s note: This story was updated with a comment from Jermaine Robinson.
