Jersey City Ward A Councilwoman Denise Ridley was sworn in as council president at the first meeting of the newly elected council during yesterday’s reorganization meeting where a temporary budget was approved as well.
By Daniel Ulloa/Hudson County View
Cannabis Control Board (CCB) Chair Jeff Kaplowitz endorsed Ridley for council president during public comment before Gallagher asked for nominations.
Ward F Councilman Frank “Educational” Gilmore then nominated Ridley, which was seconded by Councilman-at-Large Michael Griffin.
“Congratulations to the councilwoman on your appointment. I look forward to working with you,” Councilman at-Large Rolando Lavarro, who is serving a non-consecutive term, said.
“It was a motion to nominate,” Gallagher noted to laughter after applause. He then called a final vote.
The governing body voted unanimously (9-0) to make Ridley council president. Gallagher then called for a motion for council vice president nomination.
“I would like to nominate Frank “Educational” Gilmore,” Griffin said and Ridley seconded the nomination.
“Congratulations to Councilman Gilmore. I look forward to working together,” Ridley added before the motion passed unanimously (9-0).
The council then evaluated a temporary budget appropriation of $220,434,143. Lavarro first asked how long the temporary budget would last.
Acting Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Kyle Greaves the appropriations runs through March 31st. Lavarro explained he wanted to increase the budget for his city council staff, which he had yet to hire.
“ … I would make the recommendation for the temporary budget as is. We can always make the amendment,” Gallagher said.
“The money will run out, and we will do what this administration does … overspending,” Lavarro argued.
“Just to be clear, we’re not able to amend this budget?” Ward E Councilwoman Elena Little asked.
“No, we’re able to. correct?” Ridley asked.
“Correct,” Acting Business Administrator Peter Horton replied.
“I want to express my dissatisfaction with this process,” Little noted.
She noted that a state law led to such circumstances where they were sworn in late and then had less time to review the temporary appropriation.
Ward D Councilman Jake Ephros also said it’s frustrating.
“What payment failures would there be?” he asked.
“Personnel and payroll budgeting requires a temporary budget in place,” Greaves said.
Horton said payment and healthcare are their largest bills.
“We could get notices,” he explained.
Little was curious about the overall process, which Greaves sought to explain. Horton added he was eager to work with the new Council on the budget process going forward.
“We did not have a caucus, the opportunity to ask clarifying questions. I’m confident we do have the powers to make amendments,” Brooks said before voting aye.
“It’s an honor to be up here … Looking forward to this council and administration being more responsible on our budgeting … aye on all,” Zuppa said.
“I vote aye for all. Wish we could have had more time to sink our teeth into this budget,” Little noted.
“We will make sure everybody understands what’s going on,” Ridley said.
The temporary budget was ultimately approved unanimously (9-0).
