Lifelong Kearny resident and public health leader Sarah Bonilla joins Team Kearny slate with endorsements from Councilmembers Zapata, Solano, and Theodoropoulos

Today, Sarah Bonilla, a lifelong Kearny resident, mom, and public health professional, announced her candidacy for Kearny Town Council in the 3rd Ward. Bonilla will join the Team Kearny slate following 3rd Ward Councilwoman Eileen Eckel’s decision to not seek re-election after more than two decades of service. Councilwoman Eckel has endorsed Bonilla to succeed her.

“I grew up in Kearny and I’m raising my kids here now, so this race is deeply personal to me,” said Sarah Bonilla. “I’ve spent my career making sure public health systems actually deliver for the people they’re supposed to serve, and I’m running to bring that same focus to our local government. I'm looking forward to getting out in the community, hearing from my neighbors, and earning their trust."

Bonilla currently leads the Essex County Office of Public Health Management’s efforts to achieve national public health accreditation. She previously served as Director of the Center of Excellence for Latino Health at Clara Maass Medical Center and as an adjunct professor at Montclair State University, where she taught courses on health equity and social justice.

"Sarah will bring strong, independent leadership to the Council," said 3rd Ward Councilwoman Eileen Eckel. "She has an impressive background in public health, she’s invested in our community, and I know she's committed to doing what’s best for everyone in Kearny. I couldn't be prouder to support her as the candidate for the seat I'm retiring from, and I look forward to introducing her to our neighbors across the 3rd Ward."

Councilmembers George Zapata, Dennis Solano, and Stathis Theodoropoulos also endorsed Bonilla, welcoming her to the Team Kearny slate.

“We’re thrilled to have Sarah Bonilla join the Team Kearny slate. Sarah has spent her career solving problems and getting results, and that’s what public service is all about. She’ll show up prepared to do the work on day one,” said Councilmembers George Zapata, Dennis Solano, and Stathis Theodoropoulos in a joint statement. “We’re grateful for Eileen’s decades of service to the people of Kearny. We know that Sarah will pick up where Eileen left off and continue to be a strong advocate for Kearny families.”

The election is on Tuesday, June 2, 2026.