Lincoln Park’s future, crime, parking and dilapidated business areas topped issues in a Ward B candidate forum.

The event, hosted by the West Bergen/Lincoln Neighborhood Coalition and the Jersey City Independent was held St. Paul’s Episcopal Church on May 7.



Democratic Incumbent Philip Kenny is running against newcomers Michael Manzo, Paul Catsandonis, Arthur Williams and Douglas Salters.



Each candidate answered questions in front of nearly 100 people.

“We need to form a partnership between Jersey City and Hudson County,” said Williams in regards to tackling crime. Additionally, there are “no cameras on the West Side or on Mallory Street,” he added.

Catsandonis said Lincoln Park could benefit from more lighting, cameras and foot patrols. “Let police know what’s going on. We have to do our job and let police know where the problems are. Stop being apathetic.” He described West Side Avenue as a “war zone” with “wolf packs.”

Regarding parking, he said police need not be “ridiculously punitive” with tickets and that vacant land needs to turn into community parking.

Manzo compared crime-fighting strategy to sports. “Stop playing defense and start playing offense,” he said, citing a thwarted robbery as an example. “Let’s turn things around for this forgotten ward.”

Williams described his vision of the county park as a cultural center. Salters said he approached Sovereign Bank regarding summer park concerts, but funding and grants were unavailable.

Revitalizing the West Side with affordable stores tied in to anchor stores is also key, Williams noted. “I don’t want to have to go to the gas station at night for a gallon of milk,” he said.

Kenny cited his record and discussed the past month. “In the last 30 days, I’ve handled over 1,000 requests from residents,” he said, adding that he will continue to serve the city’s interests, if re-elected.

Municipal elections are being held May 12.