Former Gov. Jim McGreevey is running Art House Productions Executive Director Meredith Burns for a Jersey City council-at-large seat, his first of three citywide candidates announced as part of his bid for mayor in the non-partisan November 4th contest.
“Meredith’s diverse skill set includes strategic leadership, team building, event planning, financial management, and fundraising,” McGreevey said in a statement.
“She is an asset to Jersey City as we work to reduce municipal government spending, build affordable housing, increase public safety, and improve Jersey City Public Schools.”
She is the sixth candidate revealed to be a part of McGreevey’s nine-person council slate, with Brandi Warren in Ward A, Erfrain Badilla Orleans Jr. in Ward B, Councilman Rich Boggiano in Ward C, Ryan Baylock in Ward E, and Gloria Walton in Ward F.
“For too long, Jersey City has been operating without a strategic plan, and the unspoken strategy seems to be catering to those who see our city as a temporary stop—either on their way into Manhattan or out to the suburbs,” added Burns.
“This needs to change. Jersey City must stand on its own and invest in the people and places that make our city special.”
Her resume includes growing Art House’s revenues by 150 percent since 2017 and securing a state-of-the-art Performing and Visual Arts Center on a 29-year lease for $10 per year.
Burns played a key role in passing Jersey City Municipal Question #1 in November 2020, establishing New Jersey’s first Municipal Arts and Culture Trust Fund.
She is also a trustee on the New Jersey Theatre Alliance Board and received a Woman of Action Award from Ward E Councilman James Solomon, one of McGreevey’s opponents in the mayoral race, back in 2022.
“We need bold, forward-thinking programs that foster civic pride, keep our streets safe and clean, create more affordable housing for the people who have shaped Jersey City for generations—including artists—uplift our small businesses and nonprofits, and strengthen our Special Improvement Districts so they can better support local entrepreneurs and commercial corridors,” Burns further stated.
“We must invest in infrastructure that supports families, build quality educational programs for our children, and ensure our local economy is strong. It’s time for leadership that prioritizes our residents’ long-term success and strengthens our community’s foundation.”
For the moment, the at-large field includes Councilman Danny Rivera seeking re-election on Hudson County Commissioner Bill O’Dea’s (D-2) slate, as is educator Kristen Zadroga Hart, with Solomon endorsing Mamta Singh and Michael Griffin.
Additionally, Council President Joyce Watterman is supporting Kenny Reyes and Dave Carment for two of the at-large seats on her ticket.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
