Weehawken holds moment of silence for first female police officer in Hudson County

September 30, 2022

10weecouncil06-01 — The Weehawken Township Council met in person and virtually on September 28.

Weehawken recently held a moment of silence for two notable members of the public who recently passed away.

Mayor Richard Turner led the moment silence after a suggestion from Councilman At-Large Robert Sosa. At its September 28 meeting, the Township Council honored Debby McGorty and Stephen Weil.

“Debby McGorty was the first female police officer in Hudson County,” Turner said. “And Stephen Weil was a commissioner in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s. One moment of silence please.”

Debby McGorty

McGorty passed away at age 68 surrounded by loved ones on September 21. She died as a resident of Secaucus after a long battle with complications from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

According to her obituary, McGorty was born on October 1, 1953, to John and Mary McGorty in Weehawken. She was one of seven children that helped raise each other after the tragic death of her parents at age 15.

For grammar school, McGorty attended St. Augustine’s School in Union City before beginning her high school education at Holy Family High School in Union City. She transferring to Weehawken High School where she graduated in 1971, after which she pursued a career in Law Enforcement.

McGorty began her career as an officer with the Hudson County Corrections Department where she worked in the jail and continued to pursue advancement within the field. Breaking barriers for all women in the state of New Jersey, McGorty went on to graduate from the Jersey City Police academy becoming the first female police officer in Hudson County.

A trailblazer for women in law enforcement, McGorty joined the Hudson County Police Department in 1980 where she served as a patrol officer for over 16 years. She was very active within the department, acting as a field training officer and leading the union as Police Benevolent Association (PBA) president up to and through their disbanding in 1996.

Debby McGorty. Photo courtesy of her obituary.

Shortly after that, McGorty joined the Weehawken Police Department where she continued to serve for the remainder of her law enforcement career. She was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2008 and retired from the force in 2010 after over 30 years of service in law enforcement.

Stephen Weil

Stephen Weil passed away on August 24. According to his obituary, Weil was born December 19, 1943, and was a Weehawken resident his entire life, residing in the family’s home for 78 years.

After graduating Weehawken High School, Stephen served in the U.S. Army. He worked as a Union 24 plumber most of his life.

After retiring, Weil continued to work for the township of Weehawken as a plumbing inspector. He also proudly served as a councilman for the town and his work during a town blackout was honored.

Weil had an immense love for animals and rescuing them. He supported many charities, and his family will continue to do so.

Of note, Weil was said to have had the number one dog tag in town. He loved telling stories from the ‘good ole days’ of Weehawken and his friendships with the 50 Street boys.

Seven years ago, Weil opened up his home to his niece, Stacie Weil-Fitzgerald, her five children and another dog, Rocky. He loved late night walks with his dogs and with his nephew, Tristen Fitzgerald.

The Fitzgerald children took care of Weil in his last few months of illness. He loved watching the Mets with his brother, Bruce Weil, and it was the last thing he celebrated before his passing.

Weil was a collector of many things, including stray cats. He will be joined by his many animals at the gates of heaven, including Chelsie Bo, and his recent rescue and best friend Nena.

For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at [email protected].

Bell and clock tower will soon arrive in Fitzpatrick Park

Hudson Reporter

September 29, 2022

10baybelltowe06-01 — A sample photo of a bell tower similar to the one to be set up in Fitzpatrick Park at 27th Street and Avenue C. Images courtesy of the city.

The new bell and clock tower for Fitzpatrick Park in Bayonne is expected to arrive soon, Mayor James Davis has announced. The bell tower will be delivered on or about Wednesday, October 5.

The City Council voted unanimously in January of this year to award the contract for the construction of the bell tower to Picerno-Giordano Construction of Kenilworth for $250,275, the same contractor that conducted the renovations of Fitzpatrick Park. In March, the bells were shipped off to Cincinnati, Ohio to be revitalized.

The 35 foot tower will be the new home for three bells that used to ring at the former St. Joseph’s Church. The bell tower will be coming from the Verdin Bell Company in Ohio where the bells have been polished, refurbished, and retoned.

A fourth bell from the former church will be placed inside City Hall at a later date. Details concerning the fourth bell will be announced after arrangements have been made.

“I am very proud that our Administration saved the bells of St. Joseph’s Church for future generations of residents to enjoy,” Davis said. “They will serve as a memorial to the Slovak immigrants of St. Joseph’s Parish who helped build Bayonne in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.”

Bell and clock tower en route from Ohio

The bell tower will arrive in Bayonne on a truck. The tower will be lifted and put in place in Fitzpatrick Park at the corner of 27th Street and Avenue C.

A clock with four faces, one on each side, will be a prominent feature of the tower. The bells will be mounted inside the tower. They will be active bells, capable of making sounds along with music or tolling for the hour. The bells can be programmed to ring at specific times.

As Public Works Director Tom Cotter explained, “We will have a clock tower with all the bells and whistles.”

After the tower is in its new home, it will be hooked up to the electric line in the park. According to Cotter, the electricity will be tested to make sure that the clock and the bells work.

“Hopefully, within a few days after its installation, the bell tower will be ready to use,” Cotter said.

If everything is in working order, a dedication ceremony will be held for the tower at Fitzpatrick Park on Tuesday, October 11, at 10 a.m.

The bell tower includes a weather vane on its top. This kind of bell tower is placed frequently in town squares and shopping districts across the country.

Architectural plans for the bell tower in Fitzpatrick Park.

The history of the decades-old bells

The bell tower’s location, Fitzpatrick Park, is named after former Mayor Francis G. Fitzpatrick. Fitzpatrick served as Bayonne’s leader from 1962 to 1974.

The tower will use bells that were saved from the former St. Joseph’s Syriac Catholic Cathedral at the corner of Avenue E and 25th Street prior to the church’s demolition. The church was built by Slovak immigrants in 1909 and served the local community throughout the late 19th, the 20th, and the early 21st centuries.

While the façade of the church could have been preserved through designation by the Bayonne Historical Preservation Committee, the Archdiocese of Newark declined to do so. This paved way for developers to level the area and start from scratch, demolishing the approximately 112-year-old church to construct to two six-story residential redevelopments on the site.

The bells are all different ages from around the years 1897 and 1919. One of the bells is a former fire bell, and the other two were made for the church. Each has a different and distinct tone.

The tower was slated to be built near or as part of the new under-construction 25th Street pedestrian bridge before space limitations prevented that. Now the bell and clock tower will be constructed in the newly renovated Fitzpatrick Park, which underwent a facelift as well as storm water management upgrades.

The final portion of the park was finished on Christmas Eve in 2021, with the unveiling of a police-themed playground. And now the clock and bell tower will serve as the finishing touch.

For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at [email protected].

Secaucus to hold town wide garage sale on October 1

Hudson Reporter

September 28, 2022

10secgaragesale06 — File photo of a Secaucus town wide garage sale in 2015.

Mayor Michael Gonnelli and the Secaucus Town Council invite all residents to participate in a town wide garage sale.

The sales will begin at 8 a.m. on Saturday, October 1. The rain date is 8 a.m. on October 2.

Residents interested in participating in the sale had to register online at secaucusnj.gov/garage to have their address added to the list that will be posted.

After the sale, GreenDrop is encouraging residents to give unsold items a second chance by scheduling a free donation pick-up. To schedule a pick-up call 888-944-3767 or visit GoGreenDrop.com.

GreenDrop works on behalf of partner charities including: the American Red Cross, the Military Order of the Purple Heart, and the National Federation of the Blind. The organization raises funds for their causes through the generation and collection of donated clothing and household items.

According to GreenDrop, the Recycle for Charity program: generates charitable donations to help others, provides student volunteer and community service opportunities, and keeps clothing and household items out of landfills.

What GreenDrop can accept: clothing, shoes, accessories, blankets and bedding, flat screen TVs, kitchenware, small appliances, electronics, sporting goods, books, toys, and games.

What GreenDrop cannot accept includes: large appliances, air conditioners, tube TVs, computer monitors, food items, exercise equipment, mattresses, foam pads, large furniture, and recyclables including cans, paper, and magazines.

For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at [email protected].

North Bergen promotes police officers, including first corporal

Hudson Reporter

September 27, 2022

10nbpromotions06 — North Bergen officials swear in the newly promoted officers at a ceremony on September 21. Photo courtesy of the township.

Nine North Bergen Police Department officers were promoted at a ceremony inside town hall chambers on Wednesday, September 21. Mayor Nicholas Sacco and Public Safety Commissioner Allen Pascual presided over the oath of office.

Jason Appello, a 15-year veteran of the NBPD, was promoted to lieutenant where he will command a squad in the patrol division. Appello attended Queen of Peace High School and graduated from Seton Hall University with a bachelor’s degree.

Gary Lowman, a 28-year NBPD veteran, was appointed as the first corporal in North Bergen’s history. Lowman has worked in the Street Crimes and Community Policing unit and spent the large portion of his career as a training officer for the patrol division, receiving numerous awards and commendations.

Lowman was assigned to the Detective Bureau in 2014, promoted to the rank of detective in 2016, and assigned to the Bureau of Criminal Identification. With his new and historic position, Lowman will continue his role in the BCI.

Anthony Ortiz, a lifelong resident of North Bergen and 20-year veteran of the NBPD, was promoted to the rank of sergeant. Ortiz served as Vice President of PBA Local 18 and is the only Nationally Certified School Resource Officer in the county.

Having been Officer of the Month twice, Ortiz’s most notable arrest was made when he investigated a student who was taking significant steps to plan and carry out a school shooting several years ago. The investigation and arrest prevented the juvenile from carrying out his actions as planned.

Five other officers promoted

Andrew Mejia, a 14-year veteran of the NBPD, was promoted to rank of detective. Mejia was hired to Hudson County Corrections in 2007 and joined the NBPD in 2008. He was assigned to the Traffic Division in 2015 and has been a certified motorcycle operator, serious MV accident investigator, and SRO.

Samantha Sexton, a lifelong resident of North Bergen and five-year veteran of the NBPD, attended North Bergen High School and has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. She assisted the Spring Valley Police Department in New York in the apprehension of two homicide suspects in North Bergen in 2019. Sexton received the Outstanding Law Enforcement Award from NJ Sex Crimes Officers Association for the investigation of a stranger rape in 2020.

Bryan Suarez, a seven-year veteran of the NBPD and one of the social media coordinators for the department, attended NBHS and has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Suarez has been awarded Officer of the Month twice and is a two-time recipient of the Mothers Against Drunk Driving Award. He is a motor vehicle accident investigator, EVOC and Radar Instructor, and one of the few recognized drug recognition experts in the State.

Feliz Vargas is a seven-year veteran of the department and completed six years of service in the U.S. Navy before moving to North Bergen. He is currently an investigator with the Detective Bureau assigned to the Patrol Division.

Michael Whalen, a seven-year veteran of the department, attended NBHS and has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Prior to becoming a North Bergen Police Officer, Whalen interned for the NBPD and was assigned to the Detective Bureau as a silver shield investigator where he received an Outstanding Law Enforcement Service Award in 2020 for the investigation and arrest of a suspect in a rape case.

Police Chief Peter Fasilis was master of ceremonies at the swearing-in. Pastor Paul Haviland performed the invocation and benediction. Also in attendance were members of the officers’ families, along with representatives from the township administration and the police department.

NHRFR Firefighters promoted too

Meanwhile, North Hudson Regional Fire and Rescue (NHRFR) promoted four firefighters, including a new department chief. The ceremony was held in Waterside Restaurant on Tuesday, September 20.

Deputy Chief David Donnarumma was promoted to the rank of Chief of the department. Donnarumma takes over for Acting Chief Michael Falco, who assumed the role after Chief Frank Montagne retired in February of this year. Additionally, Captain Glen Gavin was promoted to the rank of Battalion Chief. Firefighters Gary Colombo and Kevin Todd were also both promoted to the rank of Captain.

Chief Donnarumma joined the organization in 1992 and worked his way up the ranks, eventually becoming a Battalion Chief in 2007 and a Deputy Chief in 2012. He attended North Bergen High School and graduated from New Jersey City University. Chief Donnarumma’s brother Michael served in the Department for 32 years before recently retiring and achieving the rank of Fire Captain.

Mayor Sacco attended the event and Revenue along with Finance Commissioner Julio Marenco to support the promoted firefighters. The NHRFR provides fire coverage for North Bergen, as well as Union City, Weehawken, West New York, and Guttenberg.

Also in attendance were Weehawken Mayor and Chairman of NHRFR’s Management Committee Richard Turner. West New York Mayor Gabriel Rodgriguez, NHRFR board members John Haberman, Anthony Vainieri, Martin Martinetti, Jose Munoz, and Co-Executive Directors Jeff Welz and Michael DeOrio, as well as proud family members of the four firefighters.

For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at [email protected].

West New York mayor says town is addressing increasing homelessness

Hudson Reporter

September 22, 2022

09wnyhomeless29 — West New York is one of many municipalities faced with an increase in the local homeless population. Image via Shutterstock.

West New York Mayor Gabriel Rodriguez has acknowledged that his town is facing an increase in the homeless population and working to help those affected. Rodriguez addressed the issue at a September meeting of the Board of Commissioners after concerns were raised by resident and recent unsuccessful Board of Education candidate Vipul Parekh.

“Due to the increased homeless population going on in West New York right now, all the homeless people congregate and they have been relieving themselves on the streets,” Parekh said on September 7. “It’s especially concerning due to the school starting, that our kids do not see this. It’s been happening a lot on 64th and Dewey, right behind #1 School, right behind the parking lot and along the sidewalks around there.”

Parekh asked what the town is doing to address the issue other than through the Police Department.

“Other than calling the police, what else is the town prepared to do to help the large homeless population arising in West New York, relieving themselves and congregating in areas and sleeping on the streets?” Parekh asked.

Rodriguez retorted that West New York is not the only municipality dealing with an increase in the homeless population.

“That’s not an issue that’s only exclusive to the town of West New York,” Rodriguez said. “There are increasing populations and homelessness throughout the county and several counties.”

According to Rodriguez, the issue is very complex, given that homeless people often suffer from mental illness as well.

“We also have to keep in mind that once they are here, they are residents. There is a humanitarian factor involved with treating our homeless population. We have to remember that many of them suffer from mental illness and things of that nature. You, being an EMT, should know that better than anyone. We understand that that may be a problem, and a problem in terms of quality of life for other residents.”

Parekh tried to interrupt Rodriguez, but the mayor kept going, illustrating his point that there was a humanitarian need to treat homeless people with respect rather than remove them from the town.

“You also have to keep in mind that it’s not about what are we going to do with them in terms of, you sound like you’re proposing to move them,” Rodriguez said. “We are working with our police department in addressing that issue, in making sure that they are taken care of within the confines of a community as well. We are also looking out for the interests of other residents who are affected by their presence in town.”

Rodriguez said dealing with local homeless population is a multi-faceted issue, which the town is continuing to address.

“So it is, like anywhere else in the country, a complex issue and not a black and white issue in the essence that we can’t say ‘We’re going to do this or that,'” Rodriguez said. “It’s a complex issue because it deals with people, their issues, their emotions, and unfortunately many times their mental illness and it has to be treated as such.”

Rodriguez said he would continue the conversation with Parekh offline.

The next Board of Commissioners meeting is on September 28 at 6:30 p.m. For more information, go to westnewyorknj.org.

For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at [email protected].

North Bergen and West New York officials tout ANCHOR property tax relief program

Hudson Reporter

September 22, 2022

09nbanchor29 — Mayor Nicholas Sacco urged eligible residents to apply to the ANCHOR property tax relief program at the September 21 meeting. Photo by Daniel Israel.

North Bergen and West New York officials are informing residents about the rollout of the Affordable New Jersey Communities for Homeowners and Renters (ANCHOR) property tax relief program.

Residents of both municipalities will soon be receiving mailers from the New Jersey Division of Taxation with filing information and an application for the 2019 ANCHOR property tax relief program.

The ANCHOR program replaces the Homestead Benefit program and expands the amount of property tax relief while also boosting eligibility to twice as many homeowners, and also includes tenants renting their homes.

The Division will be emailing ANCHOR program filing information to homeowners who had requested their application be sent through email when they filed their 2018 Homestead Benefit application at the same time the physical mailers are sent out.

The NJ Division of Taxation mailers will begin arriving to tenants and homeowners in Hudson County, which includes West New York and North Bergen, on September 21. The municipalities have asked that residents not call about a missing mailer until at least two weeks after the expected delivery date.

Who is eligible?

To be eligible, homeowners must have been a New Jersey resident; owned and occupied a home in New Jersey that was their principal residence (main home) on October 1, 2019; paid the 2019 property taxes on their main home; and had 2019 New Jersey gross income of not more than $250,000.

To be eligible, tenants must have: been a New Jersey resident; rented and occupied an apartment or residence in New Jersey that was their principal residence (main home) on October 1, 2019; lived in a unit with its own separate kitchen and bath facilities (if the building had more than one dwelling unit); paid rent on their main home, which was subject to local property taxes; and had 2019 New Jersey gross income of not more than $150,000.

Applicants will choose to receive their benefits either as a check or direct deposit. Applications must file by Friday, December 30. The online application, eligibility requirements, filing instructions, and paper applications can also be accessed at nj.gov/treasury/taxation/anchor.

The automated telephone filing system, which will be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, during the filing period, can be reached at 1-877-658-2972. Text Telephone Service (TTY/TDD) for hearing-impaired users at 1-800-286-6613 or 609-984-7300.

Sacco touts new property tax relief program

North Bergen is making a huge push to make residents aware of the program, through means ranging from a letter from the township,

At the September 21 meeting of Mayor Nicholas Sacco and the Board advised that residents should expect a letter from the state that will explain the application access for the program. In addition to that, Sacco is making his own push to keep residents aware.

“We discounted that and sent out our own letter telling people to look out for the state letter and to fill it out,” Sacco said. “We’re sending out a letter to every resident.”

Sacco continued, explaining the program that is based on 2019 tax returns: “Of people who are eligible, there’s two levels.”

According to Sacco, homeowners who make less than $150,000 will receive $1,500, while those who make more than $150,000 will receive $1,000. Tenants who make less than $150,000 would receive $450.

“It’s imperative that people fill this out,” Sacco said. “We’ll be getting out other outreach… We have it on our Facebook, we have it on northbergen.org. We’re getting this information out.”

Township to offer residents application assistance

In addition to publicizing the program, the township will be allocating library staffers to assist residents in filling out the form.

“We are having our library staff prepare, and I talked to my Senate staff, to assist them,” Sacco said. “People kept calling the Senate office to assist people who may not have access to computers or not be prepared to do it this way.”

The township may also see the assistance of a firm it hires to do taxes for local senior citizens.

“We’re planning to bring in the person who does taxes for our senior citizens because he deals with them,” Sacco said. “He’s already getting calls about the program.”

The move to assist residents comes due to the timing of the deadline at the end of the year.

“The important thing about the deadline is that people go to their accountants after the end of the year,” Sacco said. “Their accountants would be doing this. I know some accountants who have done the Homestead rebate for people. So the people have to deal with it themselves. So we’re making staff available at both the uptown and downtown library.”

According to Sacco, the township is seeking answers regarding what qualifies for the new program.

“There are still some questions,” Sacco said. “My Senate staff has raised a Housing Authority question. They’re saying that if the place doesn’t pay taxes, we don’t know if that includes in lieu of taxes, they may not be eligible. If they’re in subsidized housing, they may not be eligible. But that’s the state will have to decide.”

Ironing out the details

Sacco touted the new program, which he worked to set up as the state Senator for the 32rd Legislative District. He added that this is a pilot program and it is unclear if it will continue again next year.

“As a Senator, I worked hard on getting this program established,” Sacco said. “So let’s hope people follow this and apply and get the money they deserve, the rebates they deserve.”

Commissioner of Revenue and Finance Julio Marenco told the Hudson Reporter that spreading awareness to residents of the benefits of the program was key to ensure eligible residents apply.

“The biggest thing is we’re raising awareness,” Marenco said. “We’re making residents aware. We don’t want a resident a couple months down the road finding out this program was available and didn’t apply for it. So we’re doing everything possible from the Senate office and their staff. We have our library staff as well. The people that do the senior citizens’ taxes are helping, because they know them best. So we’re making sure there’s no problem and then we’re sending out a town wide letter, which is interesting because not everybody is qualified for it, but at least everybody aware of it.”

Marenco urged patience as the program rolls out.

“We just found out today and yesterday that the system was down or is back up,” Marenco said. “So take your time to have the patience to do it to get it done.”

Mayor Gabriel Rodriguez also boasted about the program to West New York residents.

“This is huge news for West New York that benefits Homeowners and Renters alike with significant relief that I hope and encourage our residents to take advantage of,” said Rodriguez. “Our administration has held the line over the last four years while making significant investments in our infrastructure and streamlining government services – all while dealing with the unprecedented global pandemic – this news from the NJ Division of Taxation provides a glimpse of further relief for WNY residents and our neighbors across the State.”

For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at [email protected].

North Bergen considers redevelopment plan for 10 parcels on Tonnelle Avenue

Hudson Reporter

September 22, 2022

09nbBoC29 — An aerial rendering of the existing site, via Google Maps.

North Bergen is considering allowing redevelopment in a large area along Tonnelle Avenue. Mayor Nicholas Sacco and the Board of Commissioners introduced an ordinance that would do just that at its September 21 meeting.

The ordinance would authorize North Bergen to establish a redevelopment plan and designate the township the redevelopment entity for a number of properties on Tonnelle Avenue. The ordinance would also amend the zoning ordinance of the township to establish specific development regulations in this area.

Implementing the redevelopment plan

The total redevelopment area is approximately 7.164 acres in the central portion of the township on the western side of Tonnelle Avenue also known as Routes 1 and 9. The area forms a row along the western side of the street between 51st Street to the south and Hudson Bread to the north at 5601-5711 Tonnelle Avenue.

The area is bordered within 200 feet on the south by the Tonnelle Avenue Station of the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail and associated parking lot, and bordered by an active rail yard to the west. To the east, on the other side of the street, there is a gas station, residential dwellings ranging from one and two-family homes to a garden apartment development, heavy commercial and industrial uses, a house of worship, and the historic Hoboken Cemetery. Hudson Bread borders the redevelopment area to the north.

The properties consist of ten parcels of land including: 5401 Tonnelle Avenue; 5409 Tonnelle Avenue; 5419 Tonnelle Avenue; the rear lot of 5419 Tonnelle Avenue; 5013 Tonnelle Avenue; 5117 Tonnelle Avenue; 5211 Tonnelle Avenue; 5319 Tonnelle Avenue; 5501 Tonnelle Avenue; and the rear lot of 5013 Tonnelle Avenue.

The Board of Commissioners previously accepted the recommendation of the Planning Board to designate the area as a non-condemnation area in need of redevelopment in March of this year. Memorialized by resolution, the board also instructed a redevelopment plan be drawn up for the redevelopment area.

On September 6, the Planning Board reviewed the redevelopment plan, recommending it to the board. Now the board is set to hold a public hearing and vote on the matter in October.

The Board of Commissioners will meet next on October 12 at 8 p.m. in the municipal chambers in Town Hall at 4223 Kennedy Boulevard. For more information, go to northbergen.org.

“This is in the Tonnelle area?” Sacco asked Township Administrator Janet Castro.

“This is ten parcels,” Castro said, confirming their location on Tonnelle Avenue. “This ordinance is just designating us as the redevelopment agency and accepting the Planning Board’s recommendations and those land uses. We have not received any formal plans yet.”

Describing the redevelopment area

Some of the buildings in the redevelopment area located in the I Industrial Zone are in better condition than others.

5117 Tonnelle Avenue is currently home to a one-story bagel restaurant with seven parking spaces known as 51 Bagel. Constructed in 1967, the building was recently renovated.

5013 Tonnelle Avenue is presently outdoor storage for masonry building materials which are stacked high on pallets. Various forklifts, mid-sized and large trucks, vans, and other miscellaneous vehicles traverse the property, which is devoid of any permanent structures.

5211 Tonnelle Avenue is currently home to a one-story commercial building for the sales and display of masonry, building materials, and related merchandise known as Reuther Material Co. There are several angled parking spaces in front of the building and several rows of parking to the northeast of the building on the site.

5319 Tonnelle Avenue is presently utilized by a building materials company for the indoor and outdoor storage of masonry materials and it was formerly used for the manufacture of concrete block and other products. The property consists of a large materials storage building centrally located, and a collection of attached storage buildings and overhangs at the north of the property. A new small office building is under construction, east of the central storage building.

5419 Tonnelle Avenue is currently a vehicle towing establishment with a one-story building in the front of the property, known as Tumino’s Towing. An auto repair garage is attached to the rear of the office building. A front fence restricts access to the parking area, with several parking spaces in a single row in front of the building.

Some properties better off than others

5401 Tonnelle Avenue presently consists of five small adjoining one-story buildings in the southern property line and a large auto repair building on the western end. A driveway and parked vehicles are located on the northeastern end of the property.

The easternmost building has the design of an old retail building but is utilized for storage of tires, known as Good Deal Tires. The adjacent building is a garage also used for tire storage. The remaining three buildings are also garages with space for one to two vehicles at a time, all leased to individual tenants.

According to the ordinance, police reports have been filed for a series of general and property-related incidents over the past three years, including motor vehicle crashes, parking complaints for vehicles blocking the driveway, noise complaints due to loud music, and isolated incidences for a health hazard due to downed wires, medical emergency from a fall from a ladder, and other disturbances.

The North Bergen Department of Health filed a complaint against Good Deal Tires for stagnant water in tires at the rear of the building, and a notice from the Municipal Court was recorded for tires providing harborage for animals.

5501 Tonnelle Avenue is currently a centrally located one-story building, an attached metal garage to the west, detached metal garage to the northwest and parking areas to the north and south.

In the north parking lot, the township observed several mid and large sized trucks parking along the north side of the building, and a heap of rubble, garbage, and building materials at the northwest corner of the property. In the south parking lot, school buses, jitney vans, recreational vehicles, mid-sized trucks, truck cabs, and personal vehicles ranging in condition from aesthetically acceptable to damaged were observed.

According to the ordinance, police reports have been filed for a series of general and property-related incidents over the past three years, including motor vehicle crashes, disabled motor vehicles, and isolated incidences of burglary, motor vehicle theft, and damage to property threats.

5013 Tonnelle Avenue is presently a narrow dirt lot used for the parking of trucks, personal vehicles, and shipping containers. There are no permanent structures on the property, with the property having been vacant since June of 2021.

Details of the redevelopment plan

According to the ordinance, the redevelopment plan would allow for permitted uses including: multifamily residential; shopping centers; hotels; wholesale business, storage and distribution warehousing; the storage of trucks, buses, passenger and commercial vans, taxis, cabs, and limousines; light manufacturing, employing a process free from objectionable odors, fumes, dust, vibrations, or noise; motor vehicles repair uses; and any uses in existence at the time of the adoption of the redevelopment plan. The redevelopment plan, however, would forbid automobile body repair shops.

According to the ordinance, the redevelopment plan aims to maximize appropriate land usage, provide adequate off-street parking; creating an attractive visual environment; and provide other public improvements to support the aforementioned goals.

The project aims “to foster the proper utilization of existing resources, develop stagnant and unproductive land… to render it useful and valuable for contributing to and servicing the public health, safety and welfare, providing for appropriate standards for buildings, and other improvements to capitalize on the strengths of the redevelopment area, including its prime location, convenient roads access, and proximity to transit service,” per the ordinance.

The redevelopment plan would permit buildings up to 60 feet in height above the elevation of Tonnelle Avenue abutting the property for multi-family residential buildings, shopping centers, and hotels.

Residential density would be capped at 110 units per acre, which can be increased by the Planning Board if there would be suitable parking for the residential use and the site can accommodate the increased development yield.

For wholesale, storage, distribution, warehousing, and light manufacturing uses, the maximum building height would be 60 feet from above the elevation of Tonnelle Avenue abutting the property, but would not to exceed 75 feet above the average grade surrounding the building.

For storage of trucks, buses, passenger commercial vans, taxis, cabs, and limousines, the maximum building height would be 35 feet. For motor vehicle repair uses, the maximum building height would be 30 feet. For these uses, the minimum buffer from adjoining residential uses would be 25 feet.

Parking requirements would be a one to one ratio for residential uses. For warehousing with less than 60,000 square feet, one space would be required for every 1,250 square feet of gross floor area, and for warehousing with more than 60,000 square feet, one space would be required for every 2,500 square feet.

For light manufacturing uses, one space would be required per 750 square feet of gross floor area, and for motor vehicle uses, one space plus two spaces per service bay would be required. Indoor bike parking would also be required, with one space for every two dwellings, as well as street trees.

For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at [email protected].

Iowa man pleads guilty to 2017 Secaucus bank robbery

Hudson Reporter

September 19, 2022

09secguilty29-01 — The Bank of America the man robbed in 2017 is located at 700 Plaza Drive in Secaucus. Photo courtesy of Bank of America.

An Iowa man has admitted robbing a bank in Secaucus in January of 2017, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced on September 14. He robbed the Bank of America located at 700 Plaza Drive in the Harmon Meadow section of town.

32-year-old Jose Luis Martinez pleaded guilty on September 13, before U.S. District Judge John M. Vazquez in Newark federal court. Martinez pleaded guilty to a two-count indictment charging him with armed bank robbery and brandishing a firearm during a bank robbery.

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court, on January 5, 2017, Martinez walked into a bank in Secaucus and pointed a handgun at a bank employee while demanding cash. Martinez told the bank employee that he would shoot her and other customers if the employee did not comply. He then took cash from the bank and fled.

The armed bank robbery count carries a maximum potential penalty of 25 years in prison, and a maximum fine of $250,000. The brandishing a firearm count carries a maximum potential penalty of life in prison and a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years, which must be served consecutively to any other sentence imposed. Sentencing is scheduled for January 31.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy, Newark, with the investigation leading to the guilty plea. He also thanked the FBI’s White Plains, New York Office; the New York City Police Department; the Greenwich, Connecticut, Police Department; and the Port Chester, New York, Police Department for their assistance.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Garrett Schuman of the General Crimes Unit in Newark.

For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at [email protected].

Union City native serves aboard Naval Air Station Oceana Dam Neck Annex

Hudson Reporter

September 16, 2022

09ucnavy22 — Petty Officer 2nd Class Ana Francisco. Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Amber Weingart.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Ana Francisco, a native of Union City, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Naval Air Station Oceana Dam Neck Annex, according to Petty Officer 1st Class Patricia Rodriguez of the Navy Office of Community Outreach.

Francisco joined the Navy seven years ago. Today, Francisco serves as a culinary specialist.

“I joined the Navy for the college benefits and to travel,” Francisco said in a press release from the Navy. “Also for the fact that the Navy has ships and travels in the ocean.”

Growing up in Union City, Francisco attended Union City High School and graduated in 2015.

“I would like to send a shout out to my mom, Nancy Francisco,” said Francisco. “Thank you for supporting me and being there for me. I hope I make you proud, and I love you.”

Francisco relies upon skills and values similar to those found in Union City to succeed in the military.

“I come from a small town,” said Francisco. “The Navy is so diverse. When I joined the Navy I was very excited to meet new people from all over the country.”

These lessons have helped Francisco while serving with Naval Air Station Oceana Dam Neck Annex. The Dam Neck site is located on Virginia’s Atlantic shore near where the first Jamestown settlers landed and where the infamous Blackbeard and other pirates were said to have buried treasures.

This area is also where battles of the Revolutionary War were fought, where Union and Confederate soldiers clashed during the Civil War, and where German submarines sank American shipping vessels within yards of the beach during World War II. Currently, the U.S. Navy uses the site for specialized training and support services to meet fleet requirements.

Serving in the Navy means Francisco is part of a world that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on strengthening alliances, modernizing capabilities, increasing capacities and maintaining military readiness in support of the National Defense Strategy, according to the Navy.

“The Navy protects the waters and shows a forward presence,” said Francisco. “We also aid the other branches in transport. We’re always able and ready.”

With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through fiber optic cables lying on the ocean floor, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to ready sailors and a strong Navy.

“Maintaining the world’s best Navy is an investment in the security and prosperity of the United States, as well as the stability of our world,” said Admiral Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. “The U.S. Navy—forward deployed and integrated with all elements of national power—deters conflict, strengthens our alliances and partnerships, and guarantees free and open access to the world’s oceans. As the United States responds to the security environment through integrated deterrence, our Navy must continue to deploy forward and campaign with a ready, capable, combat-credible fleet.”

Francisco and the sailors they serve with have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.

“I’m proud of when I advanced in rank to third class petty officer,” said Francisco. “I did it completely on my own. I studied every day. I’m working towards my associates degree currently, and I’m pretty proud of that too.”

As Francisco and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.

“I joined at a young age,” added Francisco. “ I was 18 when I joined the Navy. The Navy has molded me into who I am now. I have hit so many milestones in the Navy and it’s really helped shape me into an adult. I’ve had help through every step; I wouldn’t be where I am today without the Navy.”

For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at [email protected].

Secaucus honors oldest family-owned business in town

Hudson Reporter

September 16, 2022

09seccouncil22-01 — Secacus officials pose with the Krajewski family at the September 13 town council meeting. Photo by Daniel Israel.

Secaucus has honored the man currently behind the oldest family-owned business in town.

Charlie’s Corner has been open since 1966, currently at 1254 Paterson Plank Road after moving from another location on the same road at some point in time. At the corner of Paterson Plank Road and Wilson Avenue, the bar is two blocks down and across the street from the Municipal Building at 1203 Paterson Plank Road.

Charles Krajewski has been running his family establishment for almost five decades. The Krajewskis descend from a family of local pig farmers, with roots dating back to a time when Secaucus was known as an odorous farm town first formed as a borough by the state from portions of North Bergen in 1900.

Meet the Charles behind Charlie’s Corner

Charles himself is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, having served in the Vietnam War. Following his service, he took over Charlie’s Corner with his brother John Krajewski after inheriting the bar from their father Charles Krajewski Sr.

During his life, Charles Sr. not only worked on his family’s five-acre 4,000-pig farm, but also worked at a once famous local tavern on Secaucus Road known as Tammany Hall, ran by his brother Henry Krajewski. In addition to owning the tavern, Henry was also a three-time presidential candidate for the “Poor Man’s Party,” and also ran for nearly every office from town councilman, to mayor, to county freeholder, to governor.

Henry died on Election Day in 1966 amid a run for the U.S. Senate, no longer a pig farmer by then, as commercial and industrial redevelopment came to town and warehouses replaced pig yards. Despite Henry’s best efforts, it was Charles Sr. who would become an elected official after starting his political career in 1963, eventually going on to serve as a long-time town councilman on a ticket with Mayor Paul Amico who was credited for ushering in the town’s transformation.

Additionally, after having learned the bar business with Henry, Charles Sr. opened his own establishment in 1966 he named Charlie’s Corner. After Charles Sr. passed away in 1977, the bar has been run by Charles and John. The establishment has since been a staple for generations, although the Krajewski pig farms and political runs have now become a thing of the town’s historic past alongside the garbage dumps that defined the old Secaucus.

Charlie’s Corner will remain in the family for the foreseeable future while Secaucus continues to develop as a commuter community. Charles currently works at the bar with his daughter and fellow owner, Tara Krajewski.

The bar, which was the inspiration for Bruce Springsteen’s “Glory Days” music video, celebrated its 56th anniversary in 2022. After more than half a century, Charlie’s Corner continues to offer residents a good time with offerings like live music and karaoke as well as events including a costume party on Halloween.

Town honors iconic local establishment

Mayor Michael Gonnelli and the Town Council honored Charles Krajewski at the September 13 meeting. First Ward Councilman Robert Costantino gave brief remarks before presenting the award to Charles and the Krajewski family for the longest-running family business in Secaucus.

“This is an honor for me to be up here doing this,” Costantino said. “This is a plaque honoring Charles Krajewski, who is a veteran owner of Charlie’s Corner for probably longer than you’d like to admit. And this is for running the oldest family-owned business in town. Thank you for your contributions to the community.”

For over half a century, Charlie’s Corner has been a local watering hole. Photo courtesy of the bar.

Accepting the award, Charles said: “I’d like to take a couple of seconds and thank everybody. It’s a very nice award. There was a lot of fun getting this, a lot of good years. You know, people going to a bar have a good time. I was there all the time. So that’s a big plus. But thank you very much.”

For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at [email protected].