Immigrant Rights, Sustainability: Princeton Outlines Goals For 2025

PRINCETON, NJ — During the Princeton Municipality Reorganization meeting held on Tuesday, members of the council outlined their goals for the community for 2025.

These goals included protecting immigrant rights, tackling the housing crisis, expanding mental health education and outreach, exploring innovative revenue streams to build equity, and working on economic development.

The evening saw Gov. Phil Murphy administer the oath of office to Freda in the presence of family.

In his remarks to the community, Freda expressed his gratitude to his family and residents. He emphasized the importance of listening to differing opinions and being honest.

“I try hard to reflect what I believe being an elected official should be,” Freda said. “When any of us decides our personal opinion is always right, that's a problem... We cannot always think of every possible point on every issue, so we should be open to listening to others that may bring forth something that we had not thought of or something that we were not fully aware of. We should always be open to changing our minds based on new or updated information. Be open and be honest. It's really simple.”

The Mayor committed to continue the hard work and collaboration, focusing on improvement and not resting on past achievements.

Although he may not agree with every decision, Freda assured the community they will receive his best effort every day for the next four years.

"One thing I have learned from my corporate experience is that what you achieved yesterday is yesterday. Today is a new day. We all need to ask what can and what should be. What should we do better? What should we improve on today and tomorrow? Never stop thinking like that. Never rest on past achievements,” Freda said.

Meanwhile, Council President Mia Sacks highlighted the importance of local action, particularly in defending immigrant rights, addressing affordable housing, and promoting sustainability as highlights for 2025.

Sacks said that she reached out to constituents in the community and asked them what they would like to see from Council in the next year.

"I think the thing that I've heard the most is anxiety about what's coming in the new administration. So, I'd like to talk a little bit about hope and leadership and local action for a better future at a time when national policies may discourage us or even stand in direct opposition to these principles. I want to share a message of hope and determination,” Sacks said.

“Despite the challenges, we're committed to proving that local action can drive meaningful change, whether it's standing up for immigrants rights, expanding access to affordable housing or advancing sustainability, we have the power to lead and inspire others to follow.”

Sacks said Princeton would defend immigrant rights, at a time when federal policies will seek to marginalize or exclude them. “We in Princeton are committed to making this community a place where everyone feels valued and welcomed,” Sacks said.

She promised to tackle the housing crisis with equity, noting that affordable housing is a cornerstone of a just and inclusive community. And finally, focus on a sustainable green future.

“Sustainability isn't just a nice to have, it's a promise to future generations. Even as federal policies may threaten to roll back environmental protections, we in Princeton are committed to proving that local government can lead the way in fighting climate change,” Sacks said.

The Council President asked the community not to be discouraged, but instead to focus on what can be achieved. She said that the community's resilience and determination are key to building a better future.

To watch what each member of council said, watch the video below:

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