North Bergen to Exit Regional Fire Department, Start Its Own Fire Dept with Guttenberg

The Township of North Bergen has announced its intention to separate from North Hudson Regional Fire and Rescue (NHRFR) and establish a locally-operated fire department in partnership with the neighboring Town of Guttenberg. This decision stems from ongoing conflicts with Union City Mayor and State Senator Brian Stack, whom North Bergen officials accuse of political interference detrimental to regional cooperation.

Mayor Nicholas Sacco of North Bergen expressed deep frustration with Stack’s actions, stating, “Brian Stack has consistently put his own political agenda ahead of what’s best for North Hudson residents. When he attacked our youngest children and opposed our plans to provide them with the educational facilities they deserve… he crossed a line.” Sacco emphasized that the dissolution of North Bergen’s involvement in NHRFR is regrettable but necessary to ensure the town’s resources are directed towards local priorities.

North Bergen Commissioner and NHRFR Management Committee member Anthony Vainieri echoed Sacco’s concerns, noting that Stack’s influence and actions have compromised the region’s collaborative goals. Vainieri stated, “It’s time to move forward and focus our resources on protecting the people of North Bergen.”

Guttenberg officials are reportedly aligned with this shift. Mayor Wayne Zitt highlighted that the town had already considered creating an independent fire department and now sees the partnership with North Bergen as an ideal solution. “This new shared department will enhance public safety for both Guttenberg and North Bergen residents,” Zitt noted, citing transparency and operational issues within NHRFR as motivations for the change.

Both municipalities plan to leverage an exit clause in the NHRFR agreement to initiate the separation process, aiming for a renewed fire safety arrangement that meets the unique needs of North Bergen and Guttenberg residents.