In a letter to the editor, 32nd Legislative District Republican nominee for state Assembly Stephen Bishop says the city’s Camera-based License plate Enforcement for Access & Response times (CLEAR) program is the latest example of small businesses being hurt.
Dear Editor,
The automatic ticketing system (CLEAR) installed by the Bhalla administration is just another example of our City Hall damaging our small business community and hurting our residents.
Over the past few weeks more and more stories are emerging of residents & small businesses being ticketed and fined for simply dropping off passengers, making deliveries, or making quick lunch pick-ups.
This has produced a chilling, negative effect on our retailers and storefronts on Washington Street, many of which are locally owned.
There is little clarity given by Mayor Bhalla and his council allies. Efforts made to STOP or PAUSE this program at the municipal level have failed, most likely due to the $1,000 in campaign contributions Mayor Bhalla and Emily Jabbour have each received from the CEO of Autonmotus, the corporation that has implemented these cameras.
I was a very reluctant candidate for State Assembly, but I am proud to have stepped up. First & foremost, I believe we can do more for our children.
I am also passionate about fighting for our freedom as parents & citizens. Part of that freedom belongs to small businesses to thrive in Hoboken & for law-abiding customers to be free to enjoy the charms of our Historic town.
We need local & State representatives that work for the best interests of the people and not Big Government.
If elected, I will fight to pass legislation that would BAN surveillance systems like CLEAR, that automatically fire off tickets & fines to innocent residents.
I will always fight for freedom over government overreach. This is a tremendous example of the government going too far!
I ask for your support on November 4th for myself, Stephen Bishop, and the entire Column B team. Together, we will put people 1st here in Hoboken & Jersey City!
Sincerely,
Stephen Bishop
State Assembly District 32
Lame duck Mayor Bhalla’s war on automobiles continues.
He has a taxpayer paid SUV and driver.
It is easy to hurt others when you can’t feel pain.