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Joseph B. Vas, a lawyer in Perth Amboy, faces Helmin Caba in the June primary election for the Democratic Party. His father, Joseph, was a former city mayor for 18 years.
"I'm a big fan of Perth Amboy but I'm not happy with what's going on in town," Vas told Daily Voice.
"Nothing's being done" about violent crime, he said.
The increase in crime involving gangs and vandalism and the need for rent control enforcement are two of Vas' campaign platforms.
Two to three families are sharing one apartment to save on rent, he says. That raises safety concerns.
Vas also wants the city to hire an independent police director. The mayor currently has a dual role in serving as police director. Daily Voice has requested an interview with the mayor.
Vas also proposes:
- increased energy-efficient lighting across the city
- background checks for all new police hires.
- an interactive police blotter to increase public access to crime and arrest details.
"Let's embark on a journey to make Perth Amboy safer and more secure!" Vas said on his Facebook page where he has posted videos detailing his concerns.
In 2020, Vas finished third behind three-term incumbent Wilda Diaz and Caba with 25.7% of the vote; Caba finished second in that race but beat Diaz in runoffs to become mayor.
"J.B." is the son of Joseph Vas, who served as mayor from 1990 to 2008 and as an assemblyman from 2002 to 2010.
Check back with Daily Voice for an interview with Mayor Caba.
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