NEWS FROM PISCATAWAY TOWNSHIP WARD COUNCIL MEMBERS

(Piscataway) — The Piscataway Democratic Ward Council Members affirm that public safety is their top priority. In
these turbulent times, Piscataway residents and families need to feel safe. We cannot allow our residents’ sense of
safety to be eroded, ever!
To address ongoing dangers, the township council passed an ordinance to put a stop to criminal activity at hotels
and motels in town. Unfortunately, with an upcoming primary election in June, opposition candidates have
fabricated a false narrative around this serious issue in a shameless attempt to create discord.
“Public safety knows no political affiliation! We are working to protect ALL our residents, local businesses, and
visitors,
” said Ward 2 Councilman Dennis Espinosa.
“Our opponents' propaganda framing this as a housing issue,
pitting criminal activities against the need for temporary housing for domestic violence victims and families in crisis
is inexcusable,
” Espinosa continued.
Voting yes for the ordinance were council members Frank Uhrin (Ward 1), Dennis Espinosa (Ward 2), Sharon
Carmichael (Ward 3), Michele Lombardi (Ward 4), and Gabrielle Cahill (At-Large). We all wholeheartedly support
temporary housing for individuals and families in crisis, and believe this ordinance draws a clear and compassionate
line between sheltering people in need and not allowing criminal activity to go unchecked. The ordinance provides
for background checks, licensing, and limits on the length of guest stays.
“As an elected official, public safety must come first and our ordinance recognizes the clear distinction between
those who are in need and those who are committing crimes. We do not support criminal activities and we are
always here to lift up and support those who need our help,
” said Councilman Frank Uhrin.
“For my opponent to say
that this ordinance discriminates and causes harm is mischaracterizing the ordinance’s intent.
”
Council Vice President Sharon Carmichael echoed that commitment,
“every person in Piscataway deserves to feel
safe - it is not too much to ask for a hotel or motel providing extended housing to ensure a safe community
environment for all. Unlike our opponents we offer solutions to real world problems.
”
Due to the alarmingly high number of 911 calls from area hotels and motels, residents residing in the areas, along
with neighboring businesses have felt a negative impact. The mayor and council members have a comprehensive
solution in the township ordinance that was adopted. Public safety reports indicate that there were over 1200
service calls at area hotels and motels in a two year period.
“It’s time for every council member to step up and do the job they were elected to do, make tough, responsible
decisions for the people of Piscataway,
” said Council President Michele Lombardi.
“Public safety must always come
first. The safety of our residents, our local business people and their patrons, along with our first responders, is on
the line. It’s time to wake up, stand up, and put our community first,
” emphasized Lombardi.
“We govern for all,
” said Councilwoman Cahill.
“Township officials must act when residents’ safety is put in jeopardy.
Piscataway residents can count on Frank Uhrin (Ward 1), Dennis Espinosa (Ward 2), Sharon Carmichael (Ward 3),
Michele Lombardi (Ward 4) to take on the tough issues to make sure families are safe in our community.
”
We are the council members that increased safety with two-man patrol units, implemented the Safe Streets
campaign, Front Porch Roll Calls and brought targeted enforcement to areas where speeding is most common. We
installed rumble strips, and installed illuminated 25 mph signs to better protect drivers and pedestrians alike. We
spearheaded youth programs in the middle schools to address smoking, marijuana, and cyberbullying. We promote
bicycle safety for our youth and do so much more to provide assistance to our residents to ensure that Piscataway is
the best place to live and raise a family.
Paid for by Piscataway Democracts Ward Campaign, 313 2nd Avenue, Piscataway, NJ 08854