Mayor Jabbour & Council President Ramos commit to collaboration and transparency under new administration

Mayor Emily B. Jabbour and Council President Ruben Ramos today announced plans to introduce public caucus meetings as part of a commitment to increase transparency, open communication, and strengthen collaboration between the Mayor's Office and the Hoboken City Council under the new administration.

Mayor Jabbour and members of the City Council have begun working together to establish clearer lines of communication, share information earlier in the policy-making process, and create more opportunities for public discussion among elected officials and residents. This collaborative approach is intended to ensure that City government operates more transparently and effectively.

As part of this approach, the administration and Council President are discussing the introduction of public caucus meetings to be held in advance of regularly scheduled City Council meetings. These virtual sessions, proposed for adoption on tonight's Council agenda, would take place at 5 p.m. two business days prior to each Council meeting. These sessions would allow council members additional time to ask questions and discuss upcoming agenda items publicly prior to formal public votes and hearings.

The administration is also working to support councilmember hosted ward meetings throughout the city, giving residents more opportunities to engage directly with their elected representatives in public spaces. The community meetings will allow residents to raise concerns, receive updates, and discuss neighborhood-specific issues.

"Transparent and collaborative government is essential to earning and maintaining the public's trust," said Mayor Jabbour. "My administration is committed to working closely with the City Council, sharing information openly, and engaging stakeholders to strengthen trust and ensure every voice has a place in the legislative process. We may not always agree, but we can always work respectfully and productively on behalf of our community."

"My colleagues and I are looking forward to a more collaborative working relationship with the Mayor's Office," said Council President Ramos. "By improving transparency and communication, we can focus on the work we were elected to do, and this renewed commitment sets a positive tone for how we will govern together moving forward."