Hoboken City Council is expected to vote on the city’s $117-million budget Wednesday, along with amendments compiled by lawmakers after months of negotiation, according to city documents released Friday.
The full-year budget, introduced in June by Mayor Ravi Bhalla, has been under review by the Council’s Revenue and Finance Committee for the past 13 weeks. Councilmember Emily Jabbour, the co-chair of the Revenue and Finance Committee, said Wednesday that her committee was expected to meet to finish amendments for the full-year budget.
“This has been a difficult year for purposes of the budget for a number of reasons,” Jabbour said, citing the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, pushed back state deadlines, and other budgetary constraints. “I know that the Administration is doing their best to put forward a balanced budget that is responsive to the needs of the community. I am hopeful that my council colleagues can work together to move the budget forward in a timely and responsible way.” Read on to catch up on everything we know about Hoboken’s 2020 budget.
Hoboken City Council Passed a Temporary Budget at $24 Million
Without having approved a full-year budget yet, Hoboken City Council has financed the city for the past three months through temporary budgets, known under state law as “emergency temporary appropriations.”
The Council approved a $24-million temporary budget last meeting, extending funding for all city government departments through September 16. Last week’s temporary budget was the sixth temporary budget approved by the council since June. By approving temporary funding, lawmakers effectively postponed a vote on the full-year budget for a later day, allocating just enough money to cover city expenses through the next Council meeting.
The temporary budget, which passed 6 to 2, had its share of critics. Councilmember Mike Russo, who voted down the temporary budget, said at the meeting, “I’d like to see some discussion and amendments with the budget to save as much money as possible, but we’re getting to a point where that’s going to become more and more difficult because we are funding so much through the emergency temporary appropriations.”
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Councilmember Mike DeFusco, who also voted down the temporary budget, said at the meeting that the Council needs to approve a budget for government accountability. “At the end of the year, the administration is going to do what they’ve always done, which is to say that the council approved {the budget} and that it’s the council’s final authority, so everyone in this body needs to watch out,” DeFusco said. He added that he would continue to vote down the full-year budget until it had no tax increase.
Other lawmakers saw the temporary budget as the city’s best option. Councilmember Phil Cohen, a member of the Finance and Budget Committee and who voted for the temporary budget, said that the Council shares responsibility with the Bhalla administration to adopt a budget. “When we talk about the need to adopt the budget, that’s true,” Cohen said. “But it’s not completely the administration’s responsibility.”
Mayor Bhalla Introduced $117 Million Budget in June
Mayor Ravi Bhalla introduced a $117 million budget to the Council on July 6, with a proposed $62 million tax levy. Bhalla said in a June announcement that his introduced budget “overcomes unprecedented challenges due to the pandemic including significant revenue shortfalls with a balanced budget that maintains community services.”
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A spokesperson for Mayor Bhalla said the impact on taxpayers will be minimal thanks to other fluctuating municipal taxes. Municipal taxes for 2020 are split between county taxes {36% of total municipal tax}, city taxes {33%}, schools {26%}, library {3%}, and open space {2%}.
“Because this year Hoboken’s share of county taxes are decreasing by 6 percent,” the spokesperson said, “the overall tax impact on property owners from the introduced budget would be an increase of 1.4%, which for the average assessed property in Hoboken of $522,000 corresponds to an annual increase of $115.”
Last year’s proposed budget was approved at $118.2 million, with a proposed $56 million tax levy.
The next Hoboken City Council meeting is on Wednesday, September 16.
32 Hoboken + Jersey City News Stories This Week | February 16, 2025
It seems like the bird flu is getting closer to home with possible outbreaks in New Jersey. It has been another week of news in Hudson County, and we’ve got all the headlines to get you caught up, as we do every week — from all around the internet. Among the local news: the first-ever foodie fest for autism awareness is happening in Hoboken; MeenMoves is hosting International Women’s Day of Dance in Jersey City; and Trader Joe’s in Hoboken is limiting egg purchases due to supply issues. Keep reading for all the news in Hoboken + Jersey City for the week ending on February 16th, 2025.
Have a news story or press release? Email it to [email protected].
Among the Headlines (read on for the full stories + more):
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- First-Ever Foodie Fest for Autism Awareness is Happening in Hoboken
- DONERIGHT Döner Kebab Opens in Hoboken
- Trader Joe’s in Hoboken Limiting Egg Purchases
- Sticky’s in Hoboken Appears to be Closed
- Man Arrested in Hoboken for Causing $1,800 in Damage at Metropolis
- Crushed Chandelier from the Titanic Arrives to Jersey City
- Crumbl Cookies Signage Spotted in Downtown Jersey City
- New Bookstore + Cafe, Àbákẹ́, Opening in Jersey City Heights
- Pour Amor Closes in Hoboken, Forum Coffee to Take Over
- Signage for Hoboken Mart Spotted on Washington Street
- Temporary Closure Signage Spotted at Chipotle in Hoboken
Port Authority Releases Photos of Hoboken PATH Construction
Port Authority NY NJ shared photos and videos of construction during the first week of Hoboken’s PATH closure. The first week of the station’s closure has largely been focused on destruction and decluttering, blasting away old infrastructure to make way for what’s to come. Crews also got a head start installing the station’s new features, including wider and safer staircases. The station will remain closed through 5AM on February 25th. Click here to see photos and updates.
First-Ever Foodie Fest for Autism Awareness is Happening in Hoboken
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On April 5th, a new event will make its debut in Hoboken, and this one is all about raising awareness while enjoying all of the foodie fun our Mile Square city has to offer. Enter the first-ever Hoboken Foodie Fest — a celebration of community, creativity, and spreading Autism awareness + acceptance, complete with good eats, live music, and a book drive, among other things. Click here for more.
DONERIGHT Döner Kebab Opens in Hoboken
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DONERIGHT Döner Kebab announced on Instagram the opening of its Hoboken location at 514 Washington Street on February 14th. The restaurant serves döner kebab as well as other Turkish street foods like cheese rolls, falafel, baklava, and more.
Trader Joe’s in Hoboken Limiting Egg Purchases
Trader Joe's in Hoboken placed a sign near the egg section saying customers could only buy one carton of eggs due to ongoing issues with supply. The USDA reported on February 7th that egg prices have risen this month in other states to more than $7 per dozen. With the bird flu continuing to spread across the country, many supermarkets are limiting how many cartons of eggs consumers can buy at once.
Sticky's in Hoboken Appears to Be Closed
New York-based fried chicken restaurant, Sticky’s, made its debut at 112 Washington Street in Hoboken back in March of 2022. Known for its wings, tenders, and other chicken dishes, the restaurant quickly became popular amongst Hoboken locals. Now in 2025, locals have been wondering if Sticky’s has closed its Mile Square outpost for good after noticing that the restaurant has been closed during typical business hours. While The Hoboken Girl cannot confirm the permanent closure of Sticky’s at this time, we’re sharing what we know so far. Click here for more.
Man Arrested in Hoboken for Causing $1,800 in Damage at Metropolis
A man was arrested in Hoboken after he allegedly slammed a bar door, causing $1,800 in damage. According to a Hoboken Police arrest blotter, on January 11th at approximately 7PM police officers responded to Metropolis, located at 96 River Street, on reports of a fight. 30-year-old Sebastian Merinovallejo of Hillside, got into an argument inside the bar. While being escorted out by security, Sebastian allegedly slammed the front door which hit a glass window, breaking it and causing approximately $1,800 in damage. Sebastian was transported to Hoboken Police Headquarters where he was processed on criminal mischief charges. He was later released with a summons.
Crushed Chandelier from the Titanic Arrives to Jersey City
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One of the Titanic’s crushed chandeliers recently arrived at the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City for its artifact exhibition. Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition opened on February 15th and features authentic artifacts set within replicas of cabins and other areas within the famous ship. The crushed chandelier weighs about 20 pounds and although it appears mangled, it was once a luxurious addition to the smoking lounge for first-class passengers aboard the RMS Titanic. Approximately 1,500 of the Titanic’s 2,200 passengers died, including eight from New Jersey.
New Bookstore + Cafe, Àbákẹ́, Opening in Jersey City Heights
Àbákẹ́ Books + Cafe, a coffee shop that also serves as a bookstore and an event space for creatives is coming to Jersey City. This shop, located at 2 Webster Avenue in Jersey City Heights, plans to open in June 2025 and will be a bookstore, coffee shop, and event venue, all in one. Click here for more.
Pour Amor Closes in Hoboken, Forum Coffee to Take Over
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Hoboken coffee shop, Pour Amor, announced on Instagram that its location at 123 Washington Street was purchased by a shop called Forum Coffee. Forum was open on Valentine’s Day as “Pour Amor Powered By Forum” and will close for upgrades and renovations later this month. Click here for more.
Signage for Hoboken Mart Spotted on Washington Street
New signage was spotted at the former Washington Smoke Shop + Convenience store at 934 Washington Street in Hoboken on February 13th. The shelves have been cleared and the store appears to be empty. The sign reads Hoboken Mart + Convenience. The Hoboken Girl team has reached out for more information.
Temporary Closure Signage Spotted at Chipotle in Hoboken
Locals have reached out to The Hoboken Girl this week with questions about the closure at Chipotle in Hoboken. A temporary closure sign was recently spotted on the door. The sign reads: “Sorry, we’re closed. We will be delayed in opening today due to a roof leak. We apologize for the inconvenience and will be up and running as soon as possible.” We have reached out to Chipotle and will provide updates as they become available.
Who’s Running for Jersey City Mayor in 2025?
Residents of Jersey City are set to elect a new mayor in 2025. Steven Fulop is currently serving as mayor, but announced he won’t seek re-election as he’s running for governor of New Jersey this year. The nonpartisan municipal election will take place on November 4th, 2025. The deadline to file a nomination petition for mayor is August 21st, 2025 by 4PM. We cover the ongoing list of candidates. Click here for more.
Jersey City Courthouse to Host Motown + Soul Experience Concert
The historic William J. Brennan Courthouse in Jersey City is hosting a Live @ Brennan’s concert series featuring live performances. A Motown + Soul Experience is taking place on February 27th from 6PM-9PM in celebration of Black History Month. The concert will feature well renowned artist B.D. Lenz and the Groovacious Band. Food and refreshments are included with ticket purchases. Free parking is available directly next to the courthouse after 6PM. Parking is available on a first come, first served basis until full. Click here to purchase tickets and for more information.
Guttenberg Resident Joins Pilots to the Rescue for an Animal Rescue Mission
Photo Credit: Maria Morgana
On February 2nd, Maria Morgana, a resident of Guttenberg, joined Pilots to the Rescue — a nonprofit organization dedicated to animal welfare — to embark on a mission to save 28 dogs and seven cats in Virginia from euthanasia. Maria flew from New Jersey to Virginia to Massachusetts then back to New Jersey to help Pilots to the Rescue give these animals a second chance. Click here for more.
Hoboken Library Director Jennie Pu Announces Run for Assembly
Hoboken Library Director Jennie Pu has announced a run for state Assembly as a Democrat. Crystal Fonseca, the division director of Buildings and Street Maintenance in Jersey City, is running with her. The candidacies were announced in a press release from the Hudson County Democratic Party on February 5th.
Crumbl Cookies Signage Spotted in Downtown Jersey City
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A nationally-known cookie brand with 1000+ locations in the United States and beyond is coming to downtown Jersey City soon. Crumbl Cookies, which serves up delectable gourmet cookies in a variety of flavors, will make its debut at 318 Grove Street in Jersey City’s historic downtown area next to Shake Shack. As of February 2025, signage is now up in the space. Click here for more.
Hoboken’s Garden State Orthopaedic Associates Close After 30+ Years
Garden State Orthopaedic Associates in Hoboken closed its doors after more than 30 years in the Mile Square. The orthopaedic medical office, which specializes in sports medicine, officially closed on January 27th. The office was located at 33-41 Newark Street and now has paper covering its windows. Per its website, there is a new location at 75 Lincoln Highway in Iselin. Garden State Orthopaedics also has offices in Fair Lawn, Paramus, Clifton, and Mahwah.
Andco Coworking Spaces in Jersey City Share Exclusive Deal for HG Readers
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Andco, a coworking space in Jersey City, has two locations — 220 9th Street and 201 Montgomery Street — and has all kinds of amenities for all kinds of workers. Hoboken Girl readers can enjoy a complimentary day pass or a free month when you sign up for a six-month membership. Email [email protected] and use code 'HOBOKENGIRL' to redeem. Click here for more.
Uber Eats Launches Robotic Delivery Service in Jersey City
Uber Eats launched a robotic delivery service in Jersey City on February 13th, according to News 12 New Jersey. It is the first time the technology is available to the general public on the East Coast. The robots are through a partnership between Uber and Avride, an autonomous vehicle development company based out of Texas. Avride's delivery robots have a range of 31 miles on one charge and can travel up to five miles per hour. Once the robot is loaded with the food items, it will travel to the customer automatically. Uber says the delivery robots are operating in 11 cities and there are plans to expand to more in the near future.
Former U.S Treasury Official, Dini Ajmani, Announces Run for Hoboken Mayor
Dini Ajmani, the former deputy assistant secretary of the U.S Treasury, became the second person to officially announce a run for Hoboken mayor this November. After two terms in office, Bhalla plans to run for Assembly. Dini, who lives in Hoboken with her husband and two daughters, announced her candidacy on February 13th. On January 13th, Emily Jabbour formally announced plans to run for Hoboken Mayor in 2025 via a press release. Click here for more.
New Jersey City Courthouse Opening is Delayed Until Fall
The new Frank J. Guarini Justice Complex on Newark Avenue in Jersey City was slated to open by January 1st but there are delays due to the installation of a digital audio/visual system. Per the Jersey City Times, county government officials are now projecting it will be fall before the building can begin accepting judicial and administrative staff, county law enforcement agents, and jurors.
Hoboken High Student Selected for US Air Force Scholarship Program
Maxim Schissler, a junior at Hoboken High School, was selected to participate in the esteemed United States Air Force AIM Higher Scholarship Program. He is the first Hoboken High School student to receive this honor. Per a Hoboken Public School District press release, this prestigious opportunity provides high school students and Air Force cadets with an introductory flight experience, inspiring the next generation of aviators and leaders.
Hoboken's Stumpy Dresses Up Again for Valentine's Day
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Stumpy, Hoboken’s decorative tree stump, was most recently dressed up for Valentine's Day. You can find him on the corner of Bloomfield + Second Streets, always in-style and usually on-theme for whatever holiday is up next. The little fellow also has a stylist: Hoboken resident Sue Stephens. Click here for more.
MeenMoves to Host International Women’s Day of Dance in Jersey City
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MeenMoves is presenting the third annual International Women’s Day of Dance on March 8th at 2PM in Jersey City. The celebration will take place near the fountain at Riverview-Fisk Park, 498 Palisade Avenue, where talented female choreographers will dance, honoring the 100th anniversary of quantum mechanics. There will also be a short dance workshop for all ages and abilities. The event will take place rain, snow, or shine and is wheelchair-accessible. A livestream will be available at www.meenmoves.com and on Instagram at @meenmoves.
Walmart to Relocate Nearly 500 Corporate Jobs in Hoboken
A total of 481 Walmart corporate jobs in Hoboken are expected to be impacted through relocation or elimination by early summer, according to a WARN notice filed with the state Department of Labor earlier this month. Walmart detailed in the notice that all of the impacted jobs would come from the company’s Hoboken corporate offices with an effective date of June 13, 2025. Walmart currently occupies four floors at 221 River Street. A spokesperson for the company said that some office-based associates in Hoboken were asked to relocate to work more closely with their teams in Bentonville, Arkansas and Sunnyvale, California.
Hudson County Executive Guy Delivers State of the County Address
Hudson County Executive Craig Guy delivered the State of the County Address on February 13th at 4:30PM at the Hudson County Board of County Commissioners’ Chambers, 567 Pavonia Avenue. In his speech he highlighted housing and food insecurity, careers and opportunity, the arts, and Vision Zero. Additionally, he announced the launch of the newly redesigned Hudson County website. The State of the County Address can be found on Hudson County’s YouTube page.
Hoboken’s Graceful Skin + Body Spa to Host Second Annual Wellness Event
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Graceful Skin + Body Spa is hosting its second annual Graceful Awakening: A Year of Wellness event on March 16th from 3PM-6PM at Antique Loft at Riverview, 33 Newark Street, in Hoboken. The event will feature wellness vendors, a women in wellness panel, and more. Leaders in beauty, fitness, mental health, and spiritual enlightenment will share expert tips and insights on how to create an achievable work and lifestyle balance, and reset your mind and body for the season ahead with a fresh start. Click here for tickets and more information.
Updates on Bird Flu: 3 Monmouth County Parks Shut Down After 25 Geese Found Dead
Bird flu has been making its rounds in the news the last few weeks, and it’s getting closer to home. As of Wednesday, February 12th, three Monmouth County parks have been shut down out of caution after 25 geese were found dead, with officials testing for a possible bird flu outbreak. Click here for more.
Hoboken Public Library to Host Mardi Gras Masquerade Fundraiser
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The Hoboken Public Library Friends and Foundation is hosting a Mardi Gras Masquerade Fundraiser on February 28th from 6PM-9PM at the Hoboken Public Library, 500 Park Avenue. This fundraiser will support library programs and initiatives including capital improvements, Family FUNdays, and community care kits. The event will feature live music, tarot readings, mask making, and more.
Hoboken Spa, 120 Degrees F, Providing Discounted Services for Donations
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120 Degrees F, a holistic day spa in Hoboken, is competing in a business contest and providing discounted services in exchange for donation votes. The donations go to GENYOUth, a non-profit organization dedicated to feeding children in need and creating healthier school communities. By casting 25 votes participants receive $45 off any service, and by casting 50 votes participants receive $80 off any service. Click here to vote.
McNair Teen Operates Beekeeping Project at Jersey City Cemetery
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16-year-old beekeeper and McNair High School student, Simran Nazareth, uses the green spaces of the Harsimus Cemetery in Jersey City to operate her beekeeping project. The cemetery is home to two buzzing honey bee hives which produce the cemetery’s Harsimus Honey. The honey quickly sells out so a waitlist has been created for those interested in purchasing honey when it becomes available again.
Jersey City Council Questions SID to Fund Pompidou at Caucus
The Jersey City Council questioned creating a special improvement district (SID) to fund the proposed Centre Pompidou at the caucus on February 11th, about three months after approving the measure on first reading. Ward C Councilman Rich Boggiano, who represents the Journal Square area, wanted the ordinance postponed further, claiming that a meeting on the subject was not well attended. He argued this will raise property values and also reiterated that the SID would be governed by a seven-member board of trustees. The Jersey City Council held a meeting on February 13th at City Hall, 280 Grove Street at 6PM.
