Hoboken Councilman Cohen Targets Rent Stabilization, Resiliency Parks & Rodents As Key Ward 5 Issues

Hoboken, NJ — In an exclusive interview with Hudson TV, Councilman Phil Cohen, who is seeking reelection in Hoboken’s Fifth Ward, opened up about the primary issues affecting his constituency. From resiliency against flooding to rent control and rodent problems, Cohen laid out both his achievements and future plans.

Resiliency Against Flooding

“One of the main things I’ve been focused on since I was elected is resiliency,” Cohen stated. The western and northwestern parts of Hoboken have long been susceptible to flooding, a problem that became glaringly evident during Superstorm Sandy in 2012.

Cohen highlighted the progress made in the Northwest Resiliency Park, which recently retained 2 million gallons of stormwater during a major rainstorm. “People are enjoying the new park. It’s transformed the northwest of Hoboken,” he said.

The Rising Rent Issue

Another pressing concern for the Fifth Ward is the skyrocketing rent, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Cohen has been actively working with tenants and buildings to ensure that rent assessments are both legal and appropriate. “We’ve had major successes there. A number of buildings are now subject to rent control,” he added.

Development Plans

When asked about development in the Fifth Ward, Cohen emphasized the need for public good. He cited the recent approval of a two-story brewery and commercial space on the 1400 block of Adam Street as an example. “It’s going to be a two-story brewery, beer hall, and commercial space above it. So I think that’s great,” he said.

Rodent Control

Acknowledging the rodent problem in the Fifth Ward, Cohen discussed the measures being taken to mitigate it. “We’ve changed the culture of garbage collection in our city,” he said. New ordinances have been passed to ensure cleanliness around outdoor dining establishments, a significant step towards rodent control.

Looking Ahead

With the upcoming election on November 7, Councilman Phil Cohen remains committed to addressing these key issues. “It’s very exciting what’s on the horizon,” he concluded.

You can learn more about the Councilman’s campaign through his numerous social media platforms, including philcohen.org, Facebook and Instagram, @philiphcohen, and by subscribing to his newsletter.