By Jennifer Ersalesi
Election Day will take place on Tuesday, November 5, 2024. On Election Day, Rutherford voters will be asked to vote for two council members.
Eddy Rolon and John Grande (Independents), Ray Guzman (incumbent) and John Errico (Democrats), and Justin Smith and Frank Capoano (Republicans) are all running for Council seats this year.
This is Rutherford sent the same seven questions to all of the candidates in early September
and they responded via email. This is Rutherford made no edits to the candidates' responses, which are listed in the order in which they were received.
TIR: What do you consider the most pressing issue facing Rutherford right now?
Eddy Rolon: I’m not alone in voicing that the most pressing issue is the OVERDEVELOPMENT that impacts parking, schools, community identity as well as plenty of other infrastructure. The drain on resources as well as the missed opportunities on proper sharing of the property tax burden is a huge issue. This is only getting more widespread with many towns along commuter rail lines. Voters in Rutherford can avoid this by having people on council willing to expose and vote against this growing trend. The Borden to infrastructure even carries over to neighboring towns. East Rutherford projects impact our roads and transit areas. Getting the state to recognize and address this issue is also important.
John Grande: The most pressing issue facing Rutherford right now is its overdevelopment and its subsequent issues. We are losing our small-town charm. This issue is exacerbated by the fact that numerous PILOT agreements have not resulted in increased property tax revenue, yet they have led to increased use of town resources. As a result, our community is struggling to support essential services, including police, fire, infrastructure, and schools as property taxes continue to rise, affecting both citizens and businesses.In just five years, our schools may become overcrowded, our police department may be under-resourced, and our volunteer fire department, which is aging, may struggle to respond to emergencies in larger mid-rise or high-rise buildings. Addressing these challenges is crucial for maintaining the quality of life and safety in our community.
John Errico: As Rutherford’s desirability increases, developers and redevelopers see Rutherford as a place for new projects. How these projects impact Rutherford—its schools, its municipal services, its parking and the quality of life of its residents—is top of mind for many residents, and rightly so. Change of any kind is difficult, particularly when, in the eyes of some residents, that change threatens aspects of Rutherford that they see as among Rutherford’s most desirable qualities, like its quiet, suburban, residential feel.
Far from being uniformly negative, however, Rutherford’s attractiveness gives our Borough tremendous leverage in negotiating beneficial deals with developers. These arrangements can include things like creating additional parking in downtown Rutherford; putting disused or vastly underused properties back into service; making additional special contributions to Rutherford’s budget; and by increasing the perceived and actual popularity of Rutherford as a place to visit and live. These benefits increase all of our property values (as we’ve all seen over the past decade), and have ushered in the fantastic new shops and restaurants we are now enjoying downtown. When done responsibly and thoughtfully, they can also enhance and deepen the existing feel of the Rutherford that we all love.
For Rutherford to turn its back entirely on any new development or redevelopment is simply not realistic, and removes any agency Rutherford may have over this process. In my firm opinion, a place that cannot change and evolve to meet the wants and needs of new generations is a place that will not thrive for long. It is both our burden and opportunity to thoughtfully guide development and redevelopment in a responsible way, and to welcome Rutherford to future residents for generations to come.
Ray Guzman: As a sitting Councilman, I don’t think I can focus on one pressing issue when there are a few currently at hand. Therefore, I will speak to several issues the Borough is faced with today. Across the country and surrounding communities we are all dealing with changing weather climate conditions that are proven to be more challenging. We must continue to prepare our infrastructure to eliminate flooding throughout the borough. Our residents in the area of Insley Ave. and Carneer Ave. have been severely impacted by heavy rain storms causing majoring flooding to their properties. These residents have been dealing with flooding for years now. Borough officials have been working with our engineers to correct the flooding. This is a large-scale issue that affects the very quality of life for these Rutherford residents. As Councilman, I remain committed to making sure the issue of flooding on Insley Ave. and Carneer Ave remain a priority.
Fair Share Housing obligation remains at the top of my list as a pressing issue. Rutherford must continue to press developers to meet our obligations. Please see my comments in question 5.
Borough safety has been an ongoing concern for our residents. As liaison to our Police Dept. I have received a large amount of concerns from residents regarding vehicular offenses in the vicinity of our schools, including speeding violations, parking violations and signage issues. Residents have contacted me regarding speeding and accidents on Marginal Road and concerns of areas needing 4-way stops signs throughout the borough. I have met on many occasions with our Borough Administrator and Chief of Police. As a result a zero tolerance was put into effect for vehicular offenses around all schools. All crossing walks were repainted, additional stop signs installed.
I have introduced an ordinance lowering the speed limit on Marginal Road from 35 mph to 25 mph. My council colleagues are 100% aligned with correcting safety concerns and supported the passing of the ordinance on first read at the most recent Mayor and Council meeting. I have introduced an ordinance limiting the parking on Marginal Road which also passed first read.
Four way stop signs have been added throughout the Borough.
I have advocated for better lighting along Orient Way as this street has some very dark spots when traveling at night. As a result, we have entered into agreement with PSEG to install new LEDs (mid tier brightness) along these trouble spots and adding a few new light poles as well.
I am committed to assure safety concerns are addressed.
Frank Capoano: This may be one of the hardest questions to answer – there are a number of issues facing the Borough. Our debt, we always overspend. The ever-increasing taxes is another. Our infrastructure is yet another, with heavy traffic, safety, and flooding issues. But I think all of these issues could be taken care of if overdevelopment was dealt with properly.
Justin Smith: I think the overdevelopment and abuse of P.I.L.O.T. programs are the biggest issue we as a town are facing. New buildings should conform with existing codes. Once you let one developer expand beyond current zoning codes , it sets the precedent for the next developer to argue for the same accommodations or request even greater variances. While redevelopment is necessary, overdevelopment is a problem. The infrastructure is not equipped to handle the stress these buildings cause. Ask the residents on Chestnut what happens with heavy rains. As for the P.I.L.O.T. programs. Does anyone really think Park Ave in Rutherford is "an area in need of development"? Why are we handing out 30 year P.I.L.O.T. options. The town can negotiate the length. The only people who benefit from a 30 yr P.I.L.O.T. are the developers. We can not change what decisions and deals have been made in the past. What we can do is make sure that moving forward these types of developer benefits are held in check. Redevelopment should benefit the residents of the town, not just the developer.
For those who are unfamiliar with the "PILOT" Programs, here is a quick description. PILOT stands for Payment In Lieu Of Taxes. The program was established to entice development in areas that were either underutilized, dilapidated or otherwise unattractive to developers. The idea was to financially incentivize developers to take on projects in areas that otherwise would not be of interest. The developers make payments for the duration of the PILOT. The land is still taxable, however the development would not be fully taxed until completion of the PILOT. There are different types of PILOT programs. A 5 year exemption is a program that will max out after 5 years. The long-term programs range from 10 - 30 years upon completion of the development project. The municipality has discretion to deny a developer's request for a PILOT Program or negotiate the length. So my question to the residents... Do you feel that Park Ave in Rutherford is an area that is dilapidated ? Do you think there is a lack of interest in redeveloping Downtown Rutherford? Do you think we should be giving out 30 year PILOTS when we could be offering a 5 or 10 year option?
TIR: What personal and/or professional experience do you have that would help you lead Rutherford?
Eddy Rolon: Having lived here in Rutherford for nearly 3 decades with my wife, our three children and our pets satisfies a very important personal connection to the town. Coaching and volunteering in various capacities over these years allowed me to see many sides of our borough. I’ve witnessed quiet kindnesses and disappointing moments of people who are there for a photo opportunity and not there for the setup, breakdown or any of the work in between.
When I was elected to the Board of Education in 2016 and served my full term from January 2017- January 2020 I did not miss even one public meeting. I demonstrated that I took the responsibility of being voted in by my community soberly. I attended a few of these meeting with my infusion nurse administering treatment out of necessity. I felt I needed to be there and she felt I needed to treat my CIDP diagnosis. This was the compromise that made sense. I’ve since switched from an IVIG protocol to subcutaneous Immunoglobulin infusion that my wife and I administer ourselves to keep me breathing and moving enough to still try to maximize my life experiences and contributions. I’ve also had my own versatile small business since 2001. This is Rutherford covered my diagnosis and health situation in a previous issue.
John Grande: My background combines both educational and professional experience that would be beneficial in leading Rutherford. I hold a bachelor's degree in special education, which has provided me with a strong foundation in understanding diverse needs and fostering inclusive environments. Professionally, I have over 45 years of experience in business ownership and consulting, including owning local establishments such as Johnny's Pizzamore, Johnny’s House of Subs (formerly Blimpies), and New Memory Management. Notably, through New Memory Management, I organized and offered free concerts and events in Lincoln Park, contributing positively to the community. This blend of educational expertise and extensive business experience equips me to effectively support and enhance Rutherford’s growth and community engagement.
John Errico: I’m an attorney by education and experience (I have a BA from Yale, and a JD and LLM from Cornell Law). For the past decade or so, I’ve worked as a real estate investor and entrepreneur, primarily working on projects in northern New Jersey, Connecticut, and most recently, in Atlantic City. I’ve worked on or negotiated hundreds of real estate deals, ranging from single-family homes, to commercial properties, to ground-up development and redevelopment, including my real estate firm being named as a designated redeveloper in Atlantic City. I am thrilled to use my real estate and legal expertise to negotiate on behalf of the borough for fair and reasonable development and redevelopment.
I’ve served on the Rutherford Board of Adjustments, on the Rutherford Finance Committee, and love taking advantage of Rutherford’s many opportunities, like the NEREID boat club, and our fantastic public library. My wife and I have volunteered throughout the area, including mentoring a young man from Passaic through Big Brothers Big Sisters, and I’ve served as an elected leader in numerous volunteer alumni positions for schools I attended. Although controversial political issues often take center stage in public discussions, the vast majority of the decisions that our political leaders make every day are far from the headlines we see reported on. As such, I believe that the character and quality of our leaders is as important, if not more so, as their positions on hot-button political topics. How political leaders treat family, friends, and strangers, and interact with and listen to the community deeply inform their decisions on important topics. I strive to be a role model and leader to my young children through who I am as a person, and will bring the same ethics and character to my leadership in the borough.
Ray Guzman: Personally, I love where I live. I have served as a volunteer throughout the community for over 20 years. I am a great listener who cares about the quality of life of Rutherford residents. Professionally, I have been in the luxury beauty and fashion industry since I was 16 years old. I am a brand builder by trade, a creator and a manufacturing executive. I have traveled the world negotiating multi-million dollar contracts. I am currently employed in the capacity of Vice President for the last 18 years. My professional resume has helped me serve as Rutherford Councilman for the past four years.
Frank Capoano: I don’t look at it as “leading,” I’d be a representative of Rutherfordians. But my professional expertise would be the fact that I’m a real estate agent. This town has been getting taken advantage of by developers for years now. 30-year PILOT (Payment In Lieu Of Taxes) programs? That’s just crazy. there is no need for that kind of incentive for a developer to build here! I don’t think our current administration even attempts to negotiate. Other towns, even cities, don’t offer 30-year PILOTs. In Rutherford none of the Tax burden is lifted from the residents when all these developments are popping up. That’s not right.
Justin Smith: Since moving back to New Jersey from the West Coast, I was a partner in a residential real estate office out of Fort Lee. We had over 40 agents. All of different backgrounds, cultural customs and opinions. To be a successful leader you need to make everyone's voice heard. It is not always easy to make a decision that you know everyone will not agree with. As a leader, that decision still has to be made. I have since left the residential business and am now a partner in a Commercial Brokerage in the Iron Bound in Newark. I believe that my knowledge of Real Estate, both residential and commercial , is suited to better negotiate new projects in town.
TIR: Do you believe that Rutherford changed from a generation ago?
Eddy Rolon: Yes, a generation is usually around 25 years more or less. I’m always happy to see positive progress towards change that improves lives. Logic and kindness is a very big tent. That being said the best character traits of a place should be preserved.
I’m disappointed in the overdevelopment that has happened and what is planned for the near future without intervention. Zoning building heights, allotted parking spaces and other considerations should be rarely changed especially if the result is going to negatively impact the residents who already live here. No one should be in the literal shadow of an oversized construction project that is going up just behind their backyard fence. No one should lose their access to reasonable street parking for their homes or businesses. The developers should not be allowed these lopsided sweetheart Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) Agreements that cheat homeowners and renters out of having the oversized buildings pay their fair share to the Borough.
John Grande: Yes, Rutherford has indeed evolved over the years. There have been significant changes in its development and demographics. The community has become more diverse, reflecting broader societal trends. These changes have contributed to Rutherford’s dynamic and vibrant character. We went from a small town Borough feel, to with the changes and the building, to a more small town city feel.
John Errico: Like any dynamic place, Rutherford has changed over the generations. Although my wife and I fell in love with Rutherford when we moved here 8 years ago, even in this relatively brief time I’ve witnessed changes for the better: an increasingly revitalized downtown; an influx of new, young families; and new borough projects like the reinvigorated Kidspot, our weekly dining out program during the summer, and the ongoing upgrades to Memorial Park. Despite these changes, the soul of Rutherford has always been in its strong, stable, family-friendly residential neighborhoods, and the engagement of its residents.
The role of Borough leaders is, in my strong opinion, not to indefinitely preserve Rutherford as it was at a particular period in time, but to listen to its residents—young and old—and prepare Rutherford for the future. I don’t believe that true consensus is ever possible when topics as personal as the character of someone’s hometown are involved, and dissenting voices on both sides of this discussion are part of healthy discourse and our democracy. But leaders must ultimately make decisions, and I am proud of the decisions that the Borough has made over the past decade to preserve the soul of Rutherford, while moving it forward for new generations. I believe that Rutherford’s best days are yet to come, and I am excited to build on this work.
Ray Guzman: Yes, Rutherford has changed. Our change has come by the way of vibrant booming downtown business districts. Our home values have increased significantly. Our schools have grown to support our needs of Rutherford’s students. Our sports facilities are currently undergoing a much-needed transformation by way of grants stemming from financial support of our District 36 state legislative officials such as Senator Paul Sarlo, Assemblyman Gary Schaer and Assemblyman Clinton Calabrese of which we are grateful for
their hard work on behalf of the people of Rutherford.
Yes, Rutherford downtown landscape has changed by the building of 2 new retail/apartment buildings. However, this change has added positively to the excitement and experience of the downtown business district which is now considered a destination from visitors near and far.
Rutherford must continue to evolve just as it has since its incorporation.
What will never change is the charm of the Borough, the rich history of the Borough and Community spirit of the People of Rutherford.
Frank Capoano: Of course, Rutherford has changed from a generation ago – everywhere has. Change is good, it’s the way as a society we move forward and progress. I do think as far as speed of change is concerned that an organic approach is better. When the townspeople speak, or vote, for that matter, that it should be respected and agenda should NOT be shoe-horned through. Ie. Dispensary
Justin Smith: I do not think anyone can argue that Rutherford has not changed. The entire world has changed. We do not even need to go back a generation. Covid changed the way we live our lives. I know some people are averse to change. Change can be scary, difficult, uncomfortable. The fact is, change is necessary to grow. Residents should be able to voice the change they want to see in town. Positive change for the residents of Rutherford. Change that will better the lives of all those who live in town. We as a community can and should vote for change.
TIR: How would you like to support and encourage community engagement?
Eddy Rolon: I’d really like everyone who reads these candidate questionnaires to share them. Additionally compare them to the previous promises, ideas and words of other parties and candidates. Did they follow through? Look at the NJELEC database online to see who has been donating to candidates and their other local party peers. It is more than interesting; it is illuminating on who has the influence with some candidates.
Community engagement outside of elections and voting could mean other more fun things. Dog parks, Labor Day street fairs and always a greater a fairer mix of arts, sports, technology and other interests. I support this for all ages. Having been a professional athlete, performed on stage, a user of newer technologies and enjoying the in-person company of others these all seem like rational and considerate asks from our recreation department, numerous volunteers and other altruistic organizations at usually little to no cost.
John Grande: To support and encourage community engagement, I would focus on creating and promoting opportunities for residents to connect and collaborate. This includes organizing local events such as neighborhood gatherings, volunteer initiatives, and cultural celebrations. Enhancing communication channels to ensure that community members are well-informed and can easily participate in activities is also crucial. By supporting diverse interests and promoting inclusivity, we can strengthen our sense of community and create a more connected environment for everyone.Specifically, recognizing that many Rutherford residents have dogs, I would advocate for the creation of a dedicated dog park. This park would provide a safe and welcoming space for dogs to play and exercise, while also offering dog owners a chance to connect with one another. Additionally, addressing the need for recreational spaces, I propose establishing a skate park to provide a safe area for skateboarding enthusiasts. These initiatives would enhance our community’s amenities and foster greater engagement among residents.
John Errico: For a place of less than 20,000 people, Rutherford substantially punches above its weight in the quality, depth, and engagement of its community. Our many events each year—which draw visitors from all across the region and many of which are put on by volunteers—are a testament to the strength of Rutherford’s residents.
I firmly believe that Rutherford is at its best when our residents make authentic connections with each other at our parks and schools, on our sidewalks, at our local businesses, at our bus stops and train station, dining out together, and at our many community-wide events. These bonds and friendships transcend age, gender, and political affiliation. To that end, I plan to promote and support initiatives that encourage these types of connections: ensuring that our sidewalks are clean and safe for our families young and old; promoting the continuing revitalization of Park and Union avenue by incentivizing local businesses; doubling down on our commitment to maintaining our parks and community spaces; and challenging every resident to consider how they can make our Borough better. I’d love to be as accessible as I can be to our residents: I am always excited to grab a meal or coffee, or chat on the phone about issues concerning Rutherford, and how we can all improve. Our relatively small size means that every resident can have a meaningful voice and impact on our borough.
Ray Guzman: The foundation of Rutherford is built on community involvement. Without volunteers we would not have such prestigious Fire and EMS services. The Borough would not be able to fulfill the programs offered by the Rutherford Recreation Department nor would we be able to have the guidance of The Board of Adjustments, Civil Rights Commission, The Planning Board, The Green Team, Rent Board, The Library
Board, Arts Committee, Stigma Free/Access for All Committees or Streetscape Committee. Rutherford needs the engagement of the residents and must always have the support of the governing body. All of the amazing events that take place during the year require the engagement of resident volunteers and the support of Borough Officials.
During my first year in office (Covid year), I worked with Mayor Nunziato and my council colleagues to create an application process for boards, commissions and committees as we were not getting enough volunteers to fulfill the seats required. We realized we needed a better outreach tool to avail the community to such needs and provide definition to the purposes of these boards, commissions and committees. I am happy to say the application process has been very successful in bringing amazingly talented professionals filled with longtime residents and residents new to Rutherford.
I will continue to support and remain committed to this process. Each year, I along with my council colleagues have interviewed all interested volunteers. The interviews are conducted in the manner of thanking the applicant for taking the interest in the community, advising them of the mission and responsibilities of such. Speaking with the volunteers during this process can lead us to other events or opportunities that we may not have thought of previously.
Frank Capoano: ‘You can lead a horse to water but you can’t make them drink’ this question is asking; how do we get them to drink? Well, I would like to get more people to attend council meetings, zoning meetings, and to get them more involved with the processes that ultimately affects their day-to-a-day lives as Rutherfordians. People have gripes with things when it’s too late… On both sides of the aisle.
Justin Smith: I think the way to grow community engagement is to have events that appeal to the broadest spectrum of people. For example, Dining Under The Stars. Great idea. I know there are people who love this . As they should. It helps out the local restaurants and allows customers a place to socialize and have a good time. However, events like this really appeal to select groups. What about the senior citizens? They might not want to walk up and down Park Ave. Or they might not be physically able to walk those lengths. What about the family with a couple little kids. Maybe the kids wouldn't be happy sitting at a table for 2 hours. What about the businesses that are not on Park Ave or do not fit into the "dining" aspect. We need to find ways to get everybody involved. We could have businesses , that otherwise wouldn't be a part of this type of event , the opportunity to sponsor kids games or rides. I am talking something that can get set up quickly and easy. Like a bounce house for the kids. or some "boardwalk" type games. Something that would be exciting for little kids. If there is not a local business that wants to be a sponsor, we can let the outside vendors pay for the space and help offset costs. What if we could offer some type of transportation for seniors up and down Park Ave so they didn't have to walk. Maybe some golf carts or some type of electric transport that would be able to navigate Park Ave in a safe manner as people enjoy our beautiful downtown. The bottom line is if we want to increase community engagement, we have to appeal to everyone.
TIR: How would you propose to fill Rutheford's affordable housing obligations?
Eddy Rolon: Rutherford needs to stop taking the short term undervalued buyouts from these luxury developers and insist we fulfill our obligations to the state. I grew up in apartment buildings and even the projects in Jersey City as a child and teen. These were variable experiences with triumphs and difficulties. Affordable housing gives people a chance to have better for their own children and themselves when done logically. The eventual affordable housing needs to embody the character and adherence to the zoning to best fit our community. I want to see every developer with projects in the borough share in the effort to fulfill our obligation. There are also lawsuits that some municipalities have entered to oppose the way these things are implemented that may change what our ultimate responsibilities as a Borough will be. Regardless I’d like to see a true good faith commitment to getting it done logically and kindly.
John Grande: To address Rutherford's affordable housing obligations, I propose that any development project involving the creation of five or more new residential units should include a provision requiring that 20% of these units be designated as low-income housing. This approach would ensure a consistent and meaningful contribution to affordable housing while promoting a diverse and inclusive community.
John Errico: I strongly believe that Rutherford can meet its affordable housing obligations while maintaining its character and beauty. As many residents may know, Rutherford (like many other municipalities in New Jersey) reached a settlement agreement with the Fair Share Housing Center regarding Rutherford’s compliance with New Jersey’s affordable housing regulations. That settlement protects Rutherford from so-called “builders remedy” lawsuits from developers, who might argue that the Borough is, in essence, not in compliance with state law. These lawsuits would both cost the borough substantial money to litigate, and might also result in unfavorable new projects over which the borough has little control. That settlement agreement expires July 1, 2025. Negotiating with the Fair Share Housing Center on Rutherford’s future compliance and obligations must be a part of Rutherford’s plan moving forward, and I am excited to bring my legal and real estate expertise to bear in this process. However, Rutherford must also exercise its
leverage in negotiating with developers to comply with our obligations. Borough leaders have an opportunity to influence and guide how these obligations are met, and we should exercise all the leverage that we can to ensure thoughtful and inclusive development and redevelopment.
Ray Guzman: While Rutherford continues toward a goal of satisfying its affordable housing obligation we are approaching a settlement agreement expiration with Fair Share Housing Center July of 2025. Rutherford must continue to fulfill its obligation of affordable housing by insisting developers meet our obligations.
We must always trail the fine line of fulfilling our obligation and assuring we do not change the charm of the Borough. As Councilman, I will assure that we do not negotiate contacts with developers that do not have the interest of meeting our obligations to Fair Share Housing.
Frank Capoano: Eliminate loopholes for developers. They are already getting a massive tax abatement as it is, at the very least they can offer affordable housing.
Justin Smith: Developers need to be required to put affordable housing in the properties they are building. We are giving them tax breaks , the very least they could do is fulfill their Affordable Housing requirements. There are loopholes developers use to get around those requirements. It is the responsibility of our elected officials to cut off those loopholes. If a developer is already getting a break on taxes, they should be required to have affordable housing. That should be non-negotiable. There is also the property on the corner of Hackett and Union. That property has been being built for over a decade and it doesn't look like they are doing any work on it currently. The property is just sitting there underutilized. If they can use eminent domain to try and take the Agnew properties, why not use eminent domain to take this property and turn it into affordable housing?
TIR: How do you think national politics affect local political elections?
Eddy Rolon: The less informed a voter is the more likely it is that they will either abstain or vote straight down the column. Politicians are well aware of this. In fact the current mayor of Rutherford was elected to council as a Democrat in 2012; Switched to Republican on 2015 to ultimately switch back to Democrat in the 2019. That probably means the negative stigma of being in the Trump party was impacting his chances at staying in local political power. These same shenanigans are happening in towns throughout NJ, East Rutherford comes to mind. The perverse goal is for these types of politicians to keep power and in my opinion to further the goals of special interests that have invested in their campaigns and relationships. I’d specifically say that would be relationships with developers, builders and contractors who donate to campaigns and need favorable voting for Zoning and other financial concerns. I’m grateful to John Grande for asking me to run again and put together Independent options that found critical overlaps with Left, Right and Center on local issues that we can control.
John Grande: National politics often influence local political elections in ways that can be counterproductive. The dynamics and polarizing issues of national party politics can overshadow local concerns and candidates. This frequently leads voters to focus more on party affiliation rather than individual candidates' ideas and solutions.I support adopting a nonpartisan approach to mayoral and council elections, as seen in other small towns. This method allows voters to concentrate on the candidates' qualifications and policy positions rather than their party allegiance. Such an approach promotes more effective and community-focused leadership, helping to address local issues more directly. Often, voters align with party lines without thoroughly understanding the candidates or their platforms, which can perpetuate the same issues year after year due to a lack of meaningful change.
John Errico: The vast majority of the issues that we face locally in Rutherford, that impact residents every day—clean and safe streets, the livability and walkability of our town, the quality of our schools, our property taxes—are not partisan, or even particularly political issues. And many of these local issues impact us far greater than decisions made in Washington or in Trenton. Having engaged, thoughtful, and passionate leaders, at the local level, is, in my opinion, much more important than aligning with their thoughts on national political issues. Having said that, I proudly embody values that I hope are shared among all community leaders, irrespective of political affiliation: striving for inclusiveness and acceptance of all of our residents and visitors; promoting and securing our democratic traditions and right to self-expression and self-determination; and encouraging and strengthening our local and national communities. I believe strongly that those who will appear above me, on the ballot, in the upcoming election embody those same values, and those same values will guide me as a leader of our Borough.
Ray Guzman: National politics can affect what we believe in as American citizens. We should always be concerned of what is happening at the national level.
Locally elected officials must always focus on the needs of the people locally. During my terms as Councilman for Rutherford I have always focused on the services and quality of life for Rutherford residents regardless of politics at the national level.
Frank Capoano: In local elections, residents tend to vote on federal topics that local representatives have no say over. As a Rutherford council member I’ll never have to vote on an abortion issue, as an example. Nor will any of the current council members. Votes should be based on what WE as candidates plan to do for YOU, the residents of Rutherford.
Justin Smith: The division that has happened in this country over the past ten years or so has definitely had a strong affect on local politics. There are people on both sides of the aisle that would vote for Bart Simpson and Stewie Griffin if they were on the line of their affiliated party. Those are not the people we are looking to engage. We are looking for people who have concerns regarding the town. Let's face it, issues facing this country are not decided in a local election. Local elections focus on one town. You can vote for one party at the Federal and State level and vote a different party for the local election. You as the voter can vote for whomever you want. The division in this country has got out of control. It has trickled down to the local level too. You see people going after each other on the local Rutherford FB pages. Can we all agree, you will never change someone's political views fighting on a FB thread? People are entitled to their own opinions and they should be respected. It is unfortunate that political posts quickly turn into grown adults calling people names and making personal attacks on people they might not even know personally. As a town, we need to come together and treat each other respectfully. We can have different opinions and still act like civilized adults.
TIR: How long have you lived in Rutherford? Why did you choose to live here?
Eddy Rolon: 2025 will make it 30 years living in Rutherford. I wanted to raise my family in some place safer, less crowded and more suburban than where I grew up.
My single mother while in her early 20s brought me to Rutherford in what was probably 1979 and 1980 for Halloween trick or treating. I couldn’t believe how beautiful and different it was compared to Jersey City where I had lived (and would live) nearly all of my childhood. The relative larger spaces between houses, the friendliness of people, so many more trees and just a more relaxed feel all impressed me at 6 and 7 years old. A full sized candy bar and dollar bill in my candy sack from residents on a few streets were the deal sealers. I am proud to have overcome a rough start of my childhood family dysfunction and financial obstacles to have our three children grow up in the town. My amazing wife, Beth, who grew up in Kearny, saved us through her hard work and artistic talent made it possible for us to continue to live here even after I became chronically ill in 2012. It was a very conscious choice to remain here even when it was difficult to afford it at times. Our youngest is a RHS sophomore now. Although my wife and I can both remember dropping off kids at three different schools during a few hectic mornings in what feels like not too long ago.
Rutherford feels like home and just like any structure it requires maintenance, vigilance and love to keep it that way. The last thing I’d thought I’d ever be was a politician. How can I complain if I don’t try to fix it.
Logic and Kindness is my guide. Transparency will not just be lip service if elected.
My cell number is still 201-233-2157 for texts or calls since 2001.
John Grande: I relocated to Rutherford in 1997, initially drawn by its proximity to both New York City and Newark, which allowed me to be near the area where my mother passed and where my father was living. After spending a year here, I was charmed by the town's old-time character and quiet, small-community atmosphere. This appreciation led me to buy a house and make Rutherford my permanent home.
John Errico: My wife and I moved to Rutherford in 2016, after having lived in Hudson County and, prior to that, in New York City. Like many newer residents to Rutherford, we were initially drawn in by Rutherford’s proximity to New York City, the quality of its school system, and the charm of its residential streets and downtown. What has led us to making Rutherford our home, and where we want to raise our children, is the depth of the Rutherford community: the borough wide events, the fabulous amenities, and our neighbors and friends in Rutherford.
We now have three young children: Elisabeth (4), August (2), and a newborn, James (born in
August!), and we love the idea of our children growing up in a place that they can identify with and call their own. My wife and I love gardening, and have transformed our backyard into an extensive garden of fruit and vegetables that we are overjoyed to see mature every year. We are often reminded of the old proverb that a society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they will never sit in: we are both figuratively (and literally!) planting trees that we hope our children, and children’s children will one day enjoy in Rutherford.
Ray Guzman: I learned of Rutherford when I was dating my wife Janice. On the weekends I would visit her from South Jersey (Hammonton) where I was living. Prior to my first visit, I envisioned Rutherford to be an industrious town because of its proximity to New York City. What I found was beautiful tree-lined streets, architecture that represented a nostalgic history, amazing restaurants to dine and a clean vibrant town all nestled between major thoroughfares right outside of New York City. This was certainly not what I imagined and quickly I realized that Rutherford was a very special place to live.
As Janice and I were engaged, discussion took place of where we would live. It was a rather short discussion as we quickly agreed we would settle where my wife was born, raised and attended school -The Borough of Rutherford.
Twenty-seven years later we are proud homeowners and community volunteers that had the opportunity to raise our two daughters, Emma (23) and Alex (18) in Rutherford. Emma and Alex received a great education by attending Rutherford schools. Emma continued her education by attending Penn State University and graduated with her masters in finance in four and a half years. Alex is currently attending the University of Alabama studying towards a career in Criminal Justice. Childhood in Rutherford for our daughters was filled with community support, great education, competitive sports programs and amazing
friends. Most importantly, our children were raised in a safe community. Living in Rutherford, has proven that Janice and I made a great decision 27 years ago and we’d do all
over again. To state it simply, we “love where we live”.
Frank Capoano: I was born and raised in Rutherford. I had no say as to why I lived here in the beginning of my life, that was my parents’ choice. However, since I’ve become an adult, I started a business here, started a family here, and I decided to stay here because Rutherford truly is the jewel of southern Bergen County. Over the years I’ve realized why my parents decided to grow roots in this town. Rutherford is my home and I hate seeing its residents being taken advantage of and that’s why I decided to run for council.
Justin Smith: I grew up in Rutherford and have such amazing memories. Granted at 46, growing up in Rutherford back in the day is not the same as growing up as a kid now. We didn't have internet or cell phones. I am so thankful we didn't have social media. We were out of the house in the morning on our bikes. I remember having a sky-blue GT Preformer with pegs on the front and back wheels. Friday Night baseball at the Little League Field was a town-wide event. There used to be basketball courts in the parking lot by the bathrooms. Those courts would have kids waiting to get the next game. The one hoop closest to Right Field was bent enough that some kids could dunk. We rode our bikes everywhere. We played stickball and bounce ball at the Lower Field. For those who do not know, that was at Pierrepont School. Making collect calls to our parents telling them to pick us up at the field and hanging up before they got charged. I lived on the West Coast for over a decade. Lived in Upper Bergen County. Lived out on Long Island. Wherever I went, Rutherford was always home. I just want to make sure that the kids now will have a Rutherford they are proud to call home in the years to come.
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