Jane Shinozuka Announces Council Candidacy

Another member of the planning board is aiming to become one of five members of the Ridgewood Village Council.

Jane Shinozuka, a 17-year resident of Ridgewood, announced Friday that she's gunning for a four-year term as a councilwoman. Planning Board Vice Chairman for one of three open council seats this spring.

According to a news release sent Friday, the mother of three has been active in village government, church and school communities in Ridgewood for quite some time.

Among her credentials, Shinozuka has been an officer of the HSA Executive Board and as a liaison to the Federated HSA Safety Committee in the BF community. She has children at , BF and . Her husband, .

She is also active within the CCD program and on the Board of Governors for the Salem Ridge Association.

"My association with these and many other groups over the years, have strengthened my aspiration to be elected to Village Council," she said in the news release. "Ridgewood is undeniably a wonderful place to live and raise a family."

Shinozuka, who works at PSE&G as a "Contract Recruiter," said the village is filled with "intelligent and compassionate" volunteers working to enrich a community blessed with good schools, lush surroundings and overall safety.

"But like so many towns in Bergen County, Ridgewood is clearly struggling to maintain the day to day that we've all come to expect," she said. "As a Council member, I will endeavor to protect and strengthen those things which make Ridgewood special through realistic and prudent management."

Specifically, Shinozuka identified the need for "reliable emergency management procedures and flood mitigation solutions" to key in on what's working and what could be done to improve storm responses. The village was for poor communication with residents during the Halloween snow storm and delays in services.

The candidate also pointed to Public Works services, which .

"None of us could have predicted the hurricane or early snow storm or the difficulties they brought with them but it made everyone more aware of the need to plan for emergencies to ensure consistent service," she said.

Shinozuka also cited the CBD as needing an "interactive plan" that alters the process new businesses face as they move into the village. In a related note, she also said should be improved and should be examined.

"I look forward to sharing these and my other ideas with Ridgewood residents over the next two months," Shinozuka remarked. "Speaking one on one with residents, reinforced my belief that I can be an asset to the community. I am a firm believer in non-partisan government and if elected I'll be an ethical and impartial addition to the Village Council."

Russ Forenza, Mayor Keith Killion, Councilman Paul Aronsohn, and are all expected to be listed on the ballot. The nominating petitions are due at the Clerk's Office by 4 p.m.