Former Jersey City Council President Rolando Lavarro announced his candidacy for an at-large seat, teaming up with Mayoral Candidate James Solomon to run on his slate. Lavarro is a husband, dad, lifelong Jersey City resident, and proven public servant who made history as the City’s first Asian and Filipino American councilman. While on city council, he fought for affordable housing, stood up to powerful political interests, championed worker protections, and advocated tirelessly for underrepresented communities. He is committed to accountable city government that delivers affordable housing, stable property taxes and rents, and a better quality of life for Jersey City’s working families.
Rolando Lavarro said: “Jersey City is at a crossroads. Now more than ever, Jersey City needs fighters who aren’t afraid to take on powerful interests on behalf of its working families. Joining forces with James Solomon means building on our shared record of good government. Together, we’ll create a Jersey City where residents can afford to stay, where property taxes and rents are fair, and where every neighborhood receives the services it deserves. This isn’t just a campaign—it’s a movement to put people before politics.”
James Solomon said: “I’m thrilled to have Rolando Lavarro join our slate. Rolando had a very strong record in the Council, and his commitment to justice and fairness is something we will bring to City Hall every day. As Mayor, I will focus on reducing costs, improving quality of life, and holding developers accountable. With Rolando’s expertise and dedication, Together, we will make strides for the people of Jersey City to improve the city we all love.”
About Rolando Lavarro
Rolando Lavarro, a lifelong Jersey City resident and dedicated public servant, has built a strong reputation as a champion for affordable housing, working families, and government accountability. He has a track record of standing against powerful special interests and standing with Jersey City’s residents.
Elected in a historic victory as Jersey City’s first Asian American and Filipino council member in 2011, Lavarro served as City Council President from 2013 to 2019 and as Council At-Large until the end of 2021. Throughout his tenure, he led the fight for affordable housing, introducing an inclusionary zoning ordinance that would require new residential developments to include affordable homes.
Lavarro has been a relentless advocate for transparency and accountability. Together with Councilman James Solomon, he called for the repeal of the “Water Tax” imposed by the MUA, demanded a Payroll Tax audit after uncovering that a major developer failed to pay their fair share of school funding, and pushed for an investigation into financial corruption within a city agency—its leader would plead guilty to federal charges of embezzlement.
Understanding the struggles of working families, Lavarro championed policies to make Jersey City more affordable. He co-sponsored a rent-hike freeze with Councilman Solomon during the COVID-19 pandemic. He shepherded the passage and expansion of earned sick days legislation through the city council, making Jersey City the first in New Jersey to adopt the policy, which would be expanded statewide. Additionally, he co-sponsored a living wage ordinance and championed wage theft protections, which also became models for state policy.
Lavarro has been a leading advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. He again fought side-by-side with Councilman Solomon to end Hudson County’s ICE detention contract. He established New Jersey’s first local Immigrant Affairs Commission and successfully advocated for financial aid eligibility for DREAMers. His last action on the City Council was supporting efforts to require inclusion of Asian American contributions in New Jersey’s school curriculum, which became law in 2022.
Rolando Lavarro lives in the Greenville/West Side area of Jersey City with his wife and daughter and is committed to continuing the fight for a Jersey City that works for all of its residents.
Jersey City politics is heating up as Councilman-at-Large James Solomon recently announced his slate for the upcoming election, and it includes a familiar face – former Councilman Rolando Lavarro.
Lavarro, who previously served on the Jersey City Council from 2011 to 2017, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to Solomon’s team. His decision to join forces with Solomon is seen as a strategic move to strengthen their chances of winning the at-large council seat.
The announcement of Lavarro joining Solomon’s slate has generated buzz among Jersey City residents and political observers. Both candidates are known for their progressive platforms and commitment to serving the community. With Lavarro’s experience in city government and Solomon’s fresh perspective, they make a formidable team that could potentially shake up the political landscape in Jersey City.
Lavarro’s decision to return to city politics comes at a crucial time for Jersey City, as the city faces numerous challenges including affordable housing, transportation, and economic development. His experience in navigating these issues during his previous tenure on the council will be invaluable in addressing these pressing issues.
Solomon and Lavarro’s slate is already gaining support from various community organizations and political allies. Their combined efforts could potentially lead to a successful campaign and a strong representation for Jersey City residents on the council.
As the election season ramps up, all eyes will be on Solomon and Lavarro as they campaign for the at-large council seat. Their partnership signals a new chapter in Jersey City politics and promises to bring fresh ideas and perspectives to the table. Residents can expect an exciting race ahead as these two candidates work together to secure victory in the upcoming election.
