1. Mayor Roque’s False Claims and Political Games

   Commissioners Cirillo, Guzman, Rodriguez Respond in Joint Statement

West New York, N.J. — Mayor Roque’s complaint is completely false. His claim is groundless and in no way unethical nor illegal. This is simply a desperate and cheap political stunt meant to distract the residents of the Town of West New York from focusing on the issues that really matter. This stands as another questionable attempt to hire yet another unqualified, political crony at a high salary, all at the expense of our taxpayers.

Michael Jimenez is in no way acting as both our Town Attorney and Town Administrator. While he has stepped up in aiding in the daily functions of the administration, this is with no change in salary, title, and most importantly, without increasing the burden to our taxpayers.

As in every year past, the office of Revenue & Finance, under the direction of Commissioner Margarita Guzman is currently undergoing a preliminary review of the municipal budget in anticipation of the budget submission in May. After eight (8) years in office, Mayor Roque is fully aware that as a result, and as a matter of standard practice, hirings rarely take place during this period.

This is a baseless charge that shows a complete disregard on behalf of Mayor Roque, and shines light on how far he is willing to go to play political games at the expense of West New York residents and dedicated municipal employees.

An election in May should not dictate the way any leader makes decisions. As elected officials, we have an obligation to the taxpayers of this Town and we will continue holding Mayor Roque accountable to our residents and not to his personal agenda or those of his friends.

Mr. Jimenez is a product of this community who has dedicated himself to serving the public. Questioning the integrity of an individual with twenty (20) years of experience at the municipal level, is irresponsible and negligent.

Because of the responsibilities and tasks Mr. Jimenez has taken on, and albeit Mayor Roque’s attempts to circumvent the proper procedures, his work has ensured that West New York continues to properly function until such time the position of Municipal Administrator is filled.

There are various items pending that we have been trying to focus on including the renovation of Miller Stadium and Centennial Field, ensuring our workers in our public garage can have a safe environment, and continue ensuring that taxes remain stable – goals and projects that Mayor Roque has refused to support.

Perhaps, Mayor Roque should make better use of his time and fulfill the oath he took to faithfully, impartially, and justly perform his duties endowed to him by the residents of this town.