***FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fisher believes that by partnering and strengthening resources, Hoboken can enhance safety and support for all residents.

HOBOKEN, N.J. — Following an assault in Church Square Park, Councilwoman Tiffanie Fisher is urging the Bhalla Administration to increase funding in the city’s 2025 budget to add more police officers in Hoboken. The incident, which happened during the middle of the day with many witnesses in the park, involved an individual with a history of offenses in Hoboken assaulting two people, leaving one person needing minor hospital care. Officers arrived quickly on the scene, making an arrest with the assistance of local residents who helped clear the way for emergency response.

“Our police do a remarkable job with the resources they have, responding swiftly and effectively to keep our neighborhoods safe,” Fisher said. “As Hoboken has grown, so have our public safety needs. Our police leaders have said time and again in public meetings that they are under-resourced, so I am calling on Mayor Bhalla to prioritize this funding so our officers have the expanded support they need to protect our community.”

Fisher spoke with Police Chief Aguiar following the incident, who confirmed that a dedicated team is normally stationed at Church Square Park but had been temporarily called away to address another issue elsewhere in the city when the assault occurred. Aguiar told Fisher he is already planning to expand coverage at the park, adapting coverage strategies to keep up with our community’s growing needs.

“Our community has grown by over 20% in the past decade, with many more families, seniors, and young professionals calling Hoboken home. With this growth comes a responsibility to address the varied and pressing needs of our city,” Fisher emphasized. “This isn’t just about increasing police resources; it’s about ensuring our community can be safe, welcoming, and supportive for everyone.”

As a member of the City Council Public Safety Subcommittee, Fisher says she will be raising this need for additional officers in committee discussions to ensure resources are allocated for community-based policing in Hoboken’s parks, streets, and waterfront areas.

Fisher has already discussed the need to expand Hoboken’s partnership with Hudson County with County Executive Craig Guy and County Commissioner Chair Anthony Romano, aiming to secure increased support for services addressing housing, homelessness, and mental health needs. “Like cities across America, we’re seeing challenges that call for comprehensive responses and dedicated resources,” noted Fisher. “It’s time for Hoboken to work more closely with Hudson County and receive greater support to address the needs of those facing mental health issues and housing insecurities.”

“By working together and increasing our resources, I am confident that we can continue building a safer, more supportive Hoboken that meets the needs of all our residents,” concluded Fisher.

Contact Councilwoman Fisher:
Phone: 201-208-1674
Email: [email protected]