The FBI Returns To Hoboken

The FBI is no stranger to Hoboken. Neither are federal prosecutors. Two former Mayors- Anthony Russo (father of current 3rd Ward Councilman Michael Russo) was convicted of bribery. He still owes Hoboken over $300,000 plus bilking us out of $80-100 thousand in illegal health care benefits. Then, there is Peter Camaranno, convicted of bribery via the undercover “developer” Solomon Dwek. Peter’s bagman, currently serving time is former Hoboken Councilman and North Hudson Sewage Commissioner Michael Schaefer. Our former Parking Director John Corea is under indictment for pilfering quarters and splitting the proceeds with his convicted mob partner. Former Housing Authority Commissioner Hector Clavaria was also arrested for bribery.  

Recently, the FBI returned to its old home, Hoboken City Hall. That is where this mystery begins. The truth depends on who you believe. According to Hoboken411 the FBI has been investigating Mayor Zimmer for some time. Its readers have all but convicted her. On the reform web sites Hudson Mile Square View, Hoboken Journal and the Graphix Avenger their posters were split between placing blame, while more (including myself) were willing for the investigation to play out and let the chips fall where they may. A padlock was placed on the IT door. Does the finger point to the IT Department, where its former head Patrick Ricciardi and the Channel 78 cameraman were recently suspended? Last week’s council documents were late due to “computer problems”. City Hall employees were reportedly seen helping the FBI load boxes into a back vehicle. Rumors of a FBI raid in Marine View Plaza where many city employees live was also reported.  Mayor Zimmer’s press release cited an ongoing investigation into “communications”.

Coincidently, at the same time, current lame duck Council President Mason and Michael Russo offered a resolution asking for all emails to and from Hoboken’s Public Relations agent Juan Melli and Mayor Zimmer’s confidential aide Dan Bryan over alleged “politization” of the city’s website and communication with free press. Corporate Counsel Mark Tabakin claimed this would cost $200,000 and take years. It was pulled from consideration. Last week a revised resolution called for emails to and from local papers and websites, including Patch. I stated that the Council President either had emails, was told about emails or was on witch hunt. More importantly I was concerned about interference with the FBI’s ongoing investigation. After a closed session hearing, obviously our Corporate Counsel agreed with my second point. The watered down version “asked” the FBI if it was “okay” to see the emails. Voting for it was: Beth Mason, Michael Russo, Tim Occhipinti (4th Ward), Theresa Castellano (1st Ward) and outgoing 6th ward Councilman Nino Giacchi. Opposed were: Carol Marsh, Ravi Bhalla and Dave Mello. 5th Ward Councilman Peter Cunningham had to leave early and missed the vote. What do you think?