The two police unions that serve the Township of North Bergen are endorsing Team Sacco in the May 9th municipal elections, citing their commitment to both the community and law enforcement.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“Mayor Sacco and his team have consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of the challenges faced by our law enforcement officers and a genuine commitment to creating a safer environment for our residents,” North Bergen PBA Local 18 President James Vangelakos, who represents the officers union, said in a statement.
“Their comprehensive approach to addressing crime and ensuring officer safety aligns with our association’s mission which is why we are once again placing our trust in Mayor Nick Sacco.”
In February, state Senator (D-32)/Mayor Nick Sacco was joined by Public Safety Commissioner Pascual and Police Chief Peter Fasilis to announce that the NBPD had received its third accreditation with the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police.
Officials touted this as a prestigious honor, noting that is it achieved by only 19% of the public safety agencies in the state.
“We are proud to endorse Sacco for Mayor because we know he possesses the qualities and experience needed to address the evolving needs of our community,” added Alex J. Barrios, North Berge PBA Local 18A President, who represents the superior officers.
“His emphasis on fostering positive relationships and implementing effective community policing strategies will ensure the safety and well-being of every resident.”
Additionally, last week it was announced that North Bergen has begun construction of a new Downtown Community Policing Mini-precinct.
Furthermore, North Bergen crime has decreased by 32 percent since 2015, township data shows, while the North Bergen PD is now 70 percent Hispanic – reflective of the demographics in the township.
“I am deeply honored and grateful to receive the endorsement of the NBPBA. I stand united with our law enforcement officers in their tireless efforts to protect and serve our community,” Sacco explained.
“I pledge to continue working collaboratively with our dedicated officers to implement policies that improve public safety for all.”
Sacco and Pascual are running with Parks and Public Property Commissioner Hugo Cabrera, as well as Hudson County Democratic Organization Chair Anthony Vainieri and Board of Education Trustee Claudia Rodriguez.
They also have the backing of the local teachers union.
For the third election cycle in a row, Larry Wainstein is heading the opposition ticket, running alongside Lucy Rodriguez, Tony Parrales, Alcides Siri, and Franklin Fabre.
Siri has been on his slate all three times, while Fabre was one of his running mates in 2019.
