In the upcoming Hoboken City Council elections, the 6th Ward, which encompasses most of the Stevens Institute of Technology campus, is gearing up for a competitive three-way race for the council seat between incumbent Jen Giattino and challengers Ian Rintel and Lauren Myers.
Incumbent Council Member Jen Giattino, seeking her fourth term, is a well-known figure in the 6th Ward. With a remarkable history of service spanning 12 years, including five years as council president and four years as vice president, Giattino brings a wealth of experience to the race. This re-election cycle she is focusing on “a cleaner, greener – and yes – RAT FREE Hoboken” and a commitment to continue fostering a relationship between Stevens and the city.
Ian Rintel, a long-standing member of the Hoboken community with 25 years of residence, also owns Play! Hoboken. His platform, as outlined on his website, revolves around key pillars such as business, education, open space, and safety. Rintel’s campaign message emphasizes the need to overcome division within city government, pledging to work collaboratively for the betterment of Hoboken. This is Rintel’s second run for a City Council seat.
Lauren Myers, a trial and appellate litigator for King & Spalding, brings her legal expertise to the race. Her campaign strongly focuses on maintaining safe and clean streets, supporting local small businesses, and preserving Hoboken’s distinctive character and sense of community. Myers is dedicated to investing in traffic solutions, addressing the rat problem, redeveloping Church Square Park, and tackling homelessness throughout the city.
Students should remain conscious that while Stevens Institute of Technology is not the core of any candidates’ platform, it is undoubtedly impacted by the initiatives of city leaders. For Stevens to become a more pivotal part of city council elections, it is important to register and vote in Hoboken elections. Stevens is a vital part of the 6th Ward and addressing issues related to the needs of our students, faculty, and staff will only become a priority if the Stevens community participates in these elections.
As Election Day approaches, residents of the 6th Ward and Hoboken as a whole will have the opportunity to learn more about each candidate’s platform and make informed decisions about who will represent their interests on the Hoboken City Council. Between 2012 and 2022, Fraternity Row joined the rest of Stevens Campus in the 6th Ward, leaving the 2nd Ward behind and uniting more Stevens voices.
For additional information on each candidate’s campaign, I recommend visiting their respective websites. The Hoboken City Council elections are scheduled for November 7, and the deadline to register to vote is October 17. The results of this election will shape the future of the 6th Ward and the city as a whole.
