Press Release: Hoboken Mayoral Candidate Emily Jabbour Announces Action-Oriented Slate of At-Large Candidates Committed to Hoboken’s Future
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 14, 2025
Contact: Emmett Shell, 207-756-2696, emmett@emilyjabbourforhoboken.com
Hoboken Mayoral Candidate Emily Jabbour Announces Action-Oriented Slate of At-Large Candidates Committed to Hoboken’s Future
Today Hoboken Mayoral Candidate Emily Jabbour announced three At-Large Council candidates - Councilman Joe Quintero, Steve Firestone, and Caitlin Layson. All three share in Emily’s commitment to solutions-driven leadership and the belief that local government must focus on what truly matters: making daily life better for the people of Hoboken. Whether it’s advocating for affordable housing, investing in public safety, or ensuring resident concerns are addressed in a timely way, they are focused on delivering results for Hoboken.
“I am so excited to introduce this slate of experienced candidates who truly understand the challenges and opportunities facing Hoboken today,” said Councilwoman Emily Jabbour. “Joe brings a proven track record of hard work and community-focused leadership from his first term on City Council; Steve offers deep expertise in finance and thoughtful, detail-oriented planning as demonstrated by his work on the Zoning Board; and Caitlin brings firsthand experience as an experienced educator, passionate advocate for families, and lifelong resident. As a team, they bring the skills and dedication Hoboken needs to continue moving Hoboken forward and to get things done for residents.”
Joe Quintero, a current Hoboken At-Large Councilman, and lifelong New Jerseyan, is known for his tireless work ethic and results-driven leadership. Joe brings to his role a deep belief in community, perseverance, and public service — values reinforced by personal challenges including surviving cancer at a young age, overcoming the burdens of massive student loan debt, and more. As he seeks re-election, Joe remains focused on stronger public safety, more affordable housing, and better city services for every neighborhood - so Hoboken can be a place where everyone can thrive.
“I'm running for re-election because I believe everyone in Hoboken deserves an opportunity to thrive.” Said Councilman Quintero. “This means protecting tenants, improving public safety, and creating a more responsive City Hall. Emily and I have partnered on many of these issues these past four years, and so I know that running alongside her, we'll continue to get things done and build a stronger Hoboken.”
Zoning Board Commissioner Steve Firestone has 25 years of public service and deep roots in the community and is known for bringing careful analysis, long-term thinking, and a steady hand to every decision he makes. He currently chairs Hoboken’s Zoning Board and has spent decades
serving on local boards and commissions, always focused on making thoughtful, lasting improvements. A professor of finance and a proud marathon runner, Steve blends data-driven thinking with deep dedication and commitment to the community. After nearly three decades of calling Hoboken home, he’s running for Councilperson at Large to help guide the city's growth in a way that works for everyone.
“I’m running for City Council because I’ve spent my life solving complex problems, and I believe Hoboken deserves leaders who look for long-term solutions. Whether it was helping oversee some of the largest banks in the world for the U.S. Department of the Treasury or serving as Chairman of Hoboken’s Zoning Board, I’ve always approached challenges with focus, transparency, and a commitment to getting it right,” said Firestone. “That’s why I’m proud to run alongside Emily Jabbour. Emily leads with empathy, vision, and grit, and is the most transparent public servant you will ever meet. Together, we’ll bring a collaborative, data-driven approach to problem-solving, ensuring that Hoboken’s growth works for every resident.”
Caitlin Layson is a lifelong Hoboken resident, dedicated mother, and former special education teacher with deep roots in the community. Raised on 8th and Willow, she learned early on the importance of giving back from her parents. Caitlin’s career in education and as a direct support provider for adults with brain injuries reflects her commitment to advocating for people of all abilities. Now running for City Council, she aims to bring a compassionate, hands-on perspective to local government — focused on strong public schools, safe streets, affordable housing, and inclusive, receptive leadership. She and her family call Hoboken home, and she’s dedicated to building and maintaining a community where all residents like her can thrive.
“I’m running for City Council because I believe Hoboken should be an affordable city where everyone feels seen, supported, and empowered — no matter their background or income. As a lifelong resident, former Hoboken Public School educator, and mom, I know how important it is to have leaders who truly understand our city,” said Layson. “I’m proud to run alongside Emily, whose leadership has consistently prioritized accountability, transparency, and real results. Our team is rooted in this community and ready to get to work for every Hoboken resident.”
Bringing together unique perspectives and shared dedication, this slate is ready to lead Hoboken forward. From tackling infrastructure upgrades and improving street safety to protecting affordable housing and expanding open space, they are focused on the everyday issues that matter most to residents. United by a shared belief in accessible, transparent government, these candidates bring both lived experience and a commitment to service that reflects the best of Hoboken. Together, they are ready to build a city that works better, block by block.
You can read more about Councilman Quintero, Commissioner Firestone, and Layson on Councilwoman Jabbour’s website here. All Hoboken voters are also invited to meet them at an event this Thursday at 10th and Willow from 6:30-8:00pm. RSVPs can be submitted online here or via email to emmett@emilyjabbourforhoboken.com.