BCJAC

BCJAC Teaneck Town Council Questionnaires and Clean Campaign Pledges

2026 Teaneck Town Council

In advance of this year's upcoming council election, BCJAC prepared a list of relevant and timely questions pertaining to local issues, and we submitted them to the email addresses each candidate has on file with the Teaneck Town Clerk. We also informed each candidate that in order to be considered for our endorsement, they would need to sign a Clean Campaign Pledge pertaining to their conduct during the campaign season.

We are pleased to share the responses that we received. Four candidates answered it and signed the pledge, which is also reproduced below. Those candidates are: Avi Berliner, Sharon Kolb, Crystal Pressley, and Amrit Ramjattan. Responses are listed in alphabetical order, by candidate, followed by an alphabetical listing of the slates/candidates who chose not to answer the questionnaire.

Clean Campaign Pledge

As a candidate for local office, I pledge to run a campaign rooted in honesty, respect, and integrity. I will focus on the issues that matter to our township and refrain from personal or ad hominem attacks against any opponent. I will speak respectfully about all candidates, public servants, and community leaders, recognizing that civil discourse strengthens our democracy. I will require those in my inner circle, such as campaign managers, volunteers, and other affiliates to do the same. Should they employ such tactics on my behalf, I will denounce them and ask for any posts or other communications that violate the letter or spirit of this pledge to be removed. My campaign will be guided by fairness, transparency, and a shared commitment to the public good.

Signed by

Avi BerlinerOne Team, One Teaneck
Sharon KolbOne Team, One Teaneck
Crystal PressleyTeaneck Tough Together
Amrit RamjattanOne Team, One Teaneck

Questions for the Candidates

Teaneck faces fiscal challenges, including rising costs and increasing pressure on property taxpayers. What do you believe are the township's greatest financial challenges, and what specific steps would you take to address them? For incumbents, please also answer based on what you have already done.

Avi BerlinerOne Team, One Teaneck

Like all municipalities in New Jersey, Teaneck has to balance maintaining a required level of service of municipal operations with volatile costs for insurance premiums, fuel costs, asset and vehicle maintenance, and infrastructure rehabilitation. We have to be fiscally responsible to avoid overburdening residents and taxpayers with otherwise predictable and manageable costs. We will have to make tough choices about resource allocation and focus on the following areas: Prioritize Core Services: Protect funding for operations such as public works, public safety, recreation and senior services, and road maintenance while making responsible choices to support funding for critical discretionary programs. Defer Capital Projects: Evaluate capital projects and programs for consideration to scale back or reprioritize until market conditions improve. Asset Lifespan Optimization: Implement a proactive maintenance strategy for aging municipal equipment and vehicles. This will allow the township to extend the asset life and allow reallocation of resources for other critical capital expenditures.

Sharon KolbOne Team, One Teaneck

I believe one of the greatest financial challenges is maintaining the services residents expect while keeping property taxes manageable. Much of the Township's budget is committed to salaries, benefits, insurance and other fixed costs, while the cost of providing services and funding capital projects continues to rise. I would want to understand the budget carefully and look at spending as well as revenue. While much of the Township's spending is contractual and therefore not easily changed, I believe we should continually examine where we can operate more efficiently. Shared services, whether with other municipalities or potentially with the Board of Education, may provide opportunities for savings. At the same time, we need to diversify our revenue streams so that we are not relying solely on property taxpayers. We should make every effort to identify and pursue available state and other grants, along with responsible development, bringing new businesses to town, PILOT agreements and other appropriate revenue-producing opportunities. I believe we need to strategically evaluate the budget, exploring new sources of revenue and ways to control costs, while maintaining the police, fire, parks and other services that contribute to our quality of life.

Crystal PressleyTeaneck Tough Together

When it comes to fiscal challenges in the Township of Teaneck, there is no question that one of the biggest issues is the skyrocketed burden of increasing property taxes placed on our residents at any sign of progress. For far too long, we have been operating as if increasing taxes is the automatic solution to every expense. Home owners cannot afford to foot the bill for the lack of accountability, efficiency and attraction in our township. To help break down these rising costs and challenges, I would work diligently to strengthen Teaneck's commercial corridors by supporting and expanding our local business base, expand on opportunities for financial literacy and welcome responsible development. This will not only create space for business investments, but also lifts the continued burdens off of residential tax payers.

Amrit RamjattanOne Team, One Teaneck

The greatest financial challenge would be simply keeping basic services going while fuel costs keep rising. Fuel unfortunately has a trickle effect into many areas which can cause supply shortages and rising prices for everyday items. When prices rise they usually take quite some time to come back down. To address this issue it comes down to simple budget practices. Do we need a park improvement? Do we need new heavy vehicles? Can we afford to fund community events? The imperfect answer is cutting from Capital projects as much as possible, ensuring basic Township services have enough budget, and looking into maintenance vs. replacement of aging equipment. It's not perfect to go into a maintenance versus replacement mode, but if we do squeeze a year or two extra lifespan for a smaller cost in the short term it could keep the Township solvent while we could save a little each budget year to do a replacement of a critical item.

Teaneck is home to a diverse population with a wide range of backgrounds, beliefs, and viewpoints. As a member of the Township Council, how would you foster a community in which residents can disagree respectfully, engage constructively, and work together across differences? For incumbents, please also answer based on what you have already done.

Avi BerlinerOne Team, One Teaneck

Teaneck's greatest asset is its rich long history of diversity and our greatest strength is the ability to bring everybody together for constructive discourse and solutioning. Drawing from my leadership as a member and former chair of key advisory boards, including the Playgrounds, Parks, and Recreation Advisory Board (PPRAB), the Municipal Open Space Trust Fund (MOST), Fields Advisory Board (FAB), and board member of Teaneck Junior Soccer League (TJSL), I have seen firsthand how direct, collaborative engagement breaks down barriers and leads to creative progress. I will always advocate to leverage our advisory board infrastructure to engage residents and stakeholders to solicit ideas and feedback to improve township functions and inform strategic planning. I am also a strong believer in partnerships and shared positive outcomes to work together towards clean parks, safe streets, and productive programs.

Sharon KolbOne Team, One Teaneck

I believe we should create opportunities for people to come together, get to know one another on a personal level, and learn about each other. When we take the time to do that, we often discover that we have much more in common than we realize. We find out about similar values, concerns and hopes for our community. From this point, we can begin to build trust and respect, even when we disagree. Teaneck Neighboring is a good example of this approach. Creating opportunities for people from different backgrounds and parts of town to connect with one another can help break down barriers and build relationships. I would support opportunities that bring people together around shared interests and common goals.

Crystal PressleyTeaneck Tough Together

Community Leadership for such a wide range of backgrounds, beliefs and viewpoints is what truly excites me about this process, because that is what Teaneck has always been about. Sadly, I was born in Englewood, but had the pleasure of being raised in Teaneck which gave me a genuine understanding of the power in connecting with people whom you may never encounter in other geographical areas. Teaneck is composed of many diverse groups and it is an appointed time to stop making every community interaction about what divides us. As a member of council, I will work tirelessly to create more opportunities for residents who might never agree politically, religiously or socially to work together to create a common ground on something they can agree on. Council should not only strive to create these opportunities, but to actually participate and be a part of them. We don't always need a podium or panel to reach a resolution. I am ready to serve as a community leader that builds a stronger community giving our residents a valuable outcome to work together towards. Honestly, within the current council, there are many public displays of what it means to not be able to disagree respectfully, so I think it starts with us for sure. Nothing can get better, if the elected leaders in our township cannot lead by example.

Amrit RamjattanOne Team, One Teaneck

I would encourage more in-person meetings and discussions; for statutory boards, community advisory groups, etc. It's easier to sit behind a screen and argue than it is to do it in person. Taking time out of your day to show up and argue in person is a lot more of a task. You tend to think about your words more carefully and hopefully add some nuance. Some differences probably can't be worked out completely, but maybe you can see the other person's point of view.

Council members are required to represent each resident, regardless of their race, religion, national origin, or other affiliation. If you are elected to the council, how will you ensure that you connect with and consider the needs and interests of all residents, particularly those with whom you may be less familiar? For incumbents, please also answer based on what you have already done.

Avi BerlinerOne Team, One Teaneck

True representation means showing up for every resident of Teaneck, not just the loudest voices or the familiar faces. Connecting with residents whose backgrounds or interests differ from my own comes down to active intentional listening and stepping outside the usual comfort zones. As someone who has spent years collaborating with neighbors through my service on the Playgrounds, Parks, and Recreation Advisory Board (PPRAB), the Municipal Open Space Trust Fund (MOST), and as chair of the Fields Advisory Board (FAB), I have learned that Teaneck's residents are honest and straightforward about their needs if you take the time to hear them out. I meet every resident where they are. No matter the program I seek them out to engage, shake hands, and learn from their experiences. Residents and fellow board members know that I have an open door and am always approachable for a discussion to help find a solution, escalate to an appropriate department, or resolve a problem.

Sharon KolbOne Team, One Teaneck

I recognize that I don't know residents in every neighborhood of Teaneck. I am already making a deliberate effort to change that. I have participated in Teaneck Neighboring, which gives me the opportunity to meet and get to know residents that I might not encounter otherwise. As a Board member of the Teaneck Chamber of Commerce, I also meet new people regularly through our networking events which gives me the opportunity to hear from local business owners and community members. I have also organized and attended "Meet the Mayor" events in different parts of town to hear the residents' questions and concerns. Currently, I am setting up informal coffee gatherings in different neighborhoods to continue those conversations. I would also make a point of attending local events and functions throughout the community so that I am accessible to residents from different neighborhoods and backgrounds. I believe that listening to residents and understanding what matters to them is essential to making thoughtful decisions as a Council member.

Crystal PressleyTeaneck Tough Together

I proudly live life each and every day smiling and connecting with anyone that will make eye contact and I would not live any other way. Most people think representation means someone that "looks" like you, but I know that representation goes deeper than what you can see. I am eager to be accessible and connect with both the super vocal and also the voices that don't believe they are ever heard. Deliberate efforts and action to engage with the community at large will always be at the core of my council term. This candidate will always be ready to dig in and get involved whether at a community event, house of worship, a senior community, local business or simply out in the town. It is vital in my eyes to hear directly from residents about what has worked well, what can be revamped and how I can support their needs consistently.

Amrit RamjattanOne Team, One Teaneck

Just meeting with, and listening to people. If you listen carefully people tend to tell you exactly who they are and what they believe in. I happen to be West Indian, from Trinidad and Tobago, and Hindu. Not exactly a large part of the demographic of Teaneck, but more than comfortable here since I have lived in Teaneck my entire life. It also helped that I went to public school in Teaneck, so I got to interact with everyone. I have had no issue talking with others about their thoughts and beliefs, and sometimes people just need someone to vent to or with.

Many Teaneck residents have expressed concerns about balancing the rights to free speech and peaceful assembly with the Township's responsibility to protect neighborhoods, houses of worship, schools, businesses, and community events from harassment, intimidation, and disruption. How do you approach striking that balance?

Avi BerlinerOne Team, One Teaneck

Balancing all rights, including the right to free speech and peaceful assembly, with ensuring that our neighborhoods, houses of worship, schools, and local businesses remain safe from harassment and intimidation is a core duty of local government. Teaneck took an important step in 2025 enacting the Time, Place, and Manner ordinance to ensure that law enforcement has the tools to ensure that residents and businesses are protected from hate speech and that incitement of violence has consequences. Council and township leadership must work with the township attorney, Teaneck Police Department, and partner agencies, to ensure proper and consistent enforcement.

Sharon KolbOne Team, One Teaneck

I believe in the right to free speech and peaceful assembly. At the same time, there must be clear rules and laws that protect residents from harassment, intimidation and disruption. Those rules must be implemented fairly and consistently, regardless of who is involved, what their message is, or where the activity is taking place. Everyone should have the right to express their views, but that right does not extend to interfering with others' ability to safely worship, learn, work or participate in daily life. As a Council member, I would support clear standards and their consistent enforcement, while respecting everyone's constitutional rights.

Crystal PressleyTeaneck Tough Together

I wholeheartedly believe that the first step to balancing and protecting the rights of free speech and peaceful assembly is through transparent leadership. Lack of transparent leadership creates space for an imbalance of power and a false community narrative. Teaneck's local government needs to be both understandable and accessible enough that an ordinary resident are informed on the who, what, when, where and how's before decisions are already made. Harassment, intimidation and disruption has never had a home in Teaneck and now is not the time to open the door for such inadequacies. Peaceful protest and disagreements should be protected and a strong focus should be placed on conduct during demonstrations, not opposing views. Any and all demonstrations and/or large events should be equipped with clear communication, appropriate public safety planning, designated points of contact, and coordination that prevents conflict before it escalates.

Amrit RamjattanOne Team, One Teaneck

I do believe strongly in the right to protest and free speech. That said, the freedom of certain actions does not allow freedom of consequences. Hate speech, threats, and inciting violence are absolutely not allowed. There has been quite a bit of case study on this and reasonable restrictions can be put in place. Teaneck already enacted a Time, Place, and Manner ordinance in 2025 so this would just need to keep being enforced. If there are any particular bad actors, being present with police enforcement will be needed so it doesn't seem like we as a community reinforce any threatening and hateful behavior.

Failure to comply with state affordable housing laws risks legal costs and practical consequences, such as "builder's remedy" suits that strip control of development from our township. How will you balance Teaneck's affordable housing requirements with protecting the character of each residential neighborhood? What is your strategy to revitalize commercial districts like Cedar Lane without urbanizing the township? For incumbents, please also answer based on your voting record.

Avi BerlinerOne Team, One Teaneck

Teaneck has a phased legal requirement to meet the state mandated affordable housing obligations under the Mount Laurel Doctrine. As has been seen in other municipalities, not meeting these obligations and court ordered deadlines risks punitive penalties for the township as severe as fines and "builders remedy" lawsuits. We must partner with capable and experienced developers to work within the framework of the law and the vision of the recently adopted master plan. Smart development (i.e., utilizing the township code, compliance with the master plan, and establishing a keen vision towards the future) allows Teaneck the unique opportunity to leverage existing infrastructure while developing forward looking spaces with minimized disruption to existing residents and stakeholders. We must revitalize our existing high density areas, higher education corridor, and commercial spaces along with increased public transit access via connections to regional bus, rail, and ferry services. Teaneck should also leverage our university and technology hubs to support business incubators and establish shared development spaces. These programs will drive foot traffic to existing businesses while protecting the character of our established residential neighborhoods.

Sharon KolbOne Team, One Teaneck

I believe Teaneck needs thoughtful development. There are areas of our town that are underused or neglected. New housing and businesses can bring new life to those areas while also expanding our tax base. We also have a state mandated obligation to provide affordable housing. I believe it is better to meet that responsibility thoughtfully and maintain as much local control as possible over where and how development occurs. Each proposal should be considered with its own merits, taking into account its location, the surrounding neighborhood, who will be affected and what is appropriate for that site. Good design can allow new buildings to fit into and complement the character of the surrounding area. We need more housing options for younger people and for residents who want to downsize while remaining in Teaneck. For commercial districts such as Cedar Lane, I would support a Main Street Renaissance that attracts unique businesses, creates an attractive and walkable village and gives people reasons to spend time there, not simply a pass through. A vibrant commercial district should offer places to shop, eat, meet friends and enjoy our community. I believe new housing, where appropriate, can also help support local businesses by bringing more people into the area. I believe we can accommodate responsible development while preserving what makes Teaneck a desirable place to live.

Crystal PressleyTeaneck Tough Together

The best defense against a builder's remedy suit is a strong and in depth legally compliant housing plan that is completed in a timely manner and equipped with realistic sites selected by the township rather than by a court or developer. Developmental housing should arise around appropriate commercial corridors, underused properties, and locations near adequate transportation. Oversized developments should never be established in suburban residential neighborhoods. Every project should face the same clear standard for height, density, traffic, parking, school capacity, infrastructure, green space, and transitions into nearby homes. Cedar Lane not only has a vacancy problem, but an overall business retention issue, leaving money on the table due to high rents, decreasing foot traffic, and similar storefronts that create a revolving door of businesses that open and eventually disappear. I would place a focus on what Teaneck residents consistently leave town to buy, then recruit or partner with businesses that fill those gaps gradually. An anchor destination that creates dependable foot traffic and supports smaller businesses through graduated leases, shared buildout costs, pop-up storefronts, and coordinated entertainment experiences will create a shift in development and relief for our residential tax payers.

Amrit RamjattanOne Team, One Teaneck

This is a complicated topic since everyone believes they have the correct answer. The basic answer is the NJ Affordable Housing Act and Mount Laurel Doctrine are very clear, we have an affordable housing obligation and a time frame to meet it. We can work with developers to keep within the guidance of the Master Plan and Township code, to make as minimal an impact to existing neighborhoods as possible but any development is going to meet resistance. The most important part is that we meet our obligation and keep control of what can be built since many other Townships have already sued, lost, and the case has been dismissed with prejudice. Revitalizing Cedar Lane is probably a complicated issue in the current economic climate. Rising rents and operation costs make being in a small business quite a struggle. We can look into connecting businesses with state grants and loans. Offering some kind of tax holiday to encourage patronage could also help. Networking by allowing businesses to participate in Township sponsored events and functions could also help generate some foot traffic. From the township side outside of helping the business itself, a slow and steady beautification project of updating the building facade either at the Township cost or reduced cost by partnering with the owner. A grand vision for Cedar Lane should be agreed upon before we attempt this and end up with mismatched designs which are either charming on their own or a gauche nightmare.