Zimmer: Russo has revealed 'true self'

After Council President Beth Mason, the Hoboken Democratic Committee, several council candidates and the four minority council members have criticized Third Ward Councilman Michael Russo's conduct during a 2009 meeting with FBI informant Solomon Dwek, Mayor Dawn Zimmer has chimed in.

In an open letter to Hoboken residents she writes that Russo has betrayed Hoboken's trust.

"What I also find disturbing is that Councilman Russo publicly positions himself as being for 'balanced development' and 'open space,' while in private Councilman Russo describes himself as 'very pro-development,'" the mayor writes. "Even more disturbing is how he describes himself as someone who has partnered with Councilwoman Mason to 'take control of the City' with a 'six vote majority.'

Furthermore, the mayor explains, "Hoboken residents should understand that with a 'six vote majority' the Councilman could absolutely 'control' development since the City Council is the redevelopment agency and ultimately decides on crucial development issues."

In the letter, the mayor said she supports the She also said that Russo should step down as Council Vice President, chairman of the finance committee and housing authority commissioner.