Anti-Violence Coalition of Hudson County Executive Director Pam Johnson, who finished in a close third place in last week’s Jersey City Ward A city council race, is backing incumbent Denise Ridley in the December 2nd runoff against Brandi Warren.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“Now more than ever it is critical to have effective leadership that can get things done at the city level. Councilwoman Ridley has consistently driven positive outcomes for the residents of Ward A. She is a life-long resident that has always remained in this city when others found it more convenient to go elsewhere,” Johnson said in a statement.
“From taking a proactive role in creating affordable housing in the Ward, to ensuring our youth have access to more recreation programs, to standing up for accountability through her support of creating a Civilian Complaint Review Board, Denise has shown up in the past and has made a credible commitment to put Ward A first.”
Ridley, who ran on Ward E Councilman James Solomon’s ticket, bested Warren, part of former Gov. Jim McGreevey’s slate, by a measly 15 votes last Tuesday: 2,486 to 2,471.
Johnson, who was on Hudson County Commissioner Bill O’Dea’s (D-2) ticket, was not far behind with 2,231 votes.
Looking ahead, both Johnson and Ridley have expressed a shared commitment to improving access to mental health resources, particularly during times of crisis.
“I’m honored to have Pamela’s endorsement. She has been a strong advocate in the community for years and she continues to fight for our most vulnerable populations. We share a passion for serving our neighbors and building a stronger, more equitable Jersey City,” Ridley added.
“It is a new day and we encourage our community to unite as we have seen so many others do after every election. Together, we’ll continue the work of expanding opportunity, ensuring accountability, and supporting every resident’s right to a city with a good quality of life.”
The Ward A, B, C, and D council seats are up for grabs next month, along with the three council at-large seats, when Solomon and McGreevey go head-to-head to determine the next mayor of New Jersey’s second largest city.
