I think as many of us have seen, the draft Lackawanna Redevelopment plan is an emotional process for a lot people for a lot of different and very valid reasons. But I also think this issue has become a proxy for many others too. I’ve witnessed the intentional exploitation of fears and misleading of the public by some who have a purely political agenda. Children associated with people involved in the project have been bullied in schools. Unchecked fake Facebook profiles are shaping discourse on that platform. People who have spoken out in favor of the project have been harassed online.

Unfortunately in 2023 America, sewing confusion and discontent continues to be a proven and effective strategy. And even in Montclair, some individuals are willing to compromise the integrity of institutions and processes rather than respecting that to be a democracy means to sometimes not get our way. The result is less faith in our institutions, processes and in the people who serve us. And they know it. Another consequence is chasing away the talent I think we can use at all levels of government.

The claims that a small coordinated group of individuals have made regarding possible conflicts of interest are unfounded.

I take the integrity of my role very seriously. I didn’t raise my hand to do any of this to enrich my own life. I walked away from lucrative private sector career opportunities, feeling a calling to public service. I don’t need to be an elected official or to seek higher office to feel any sense of validation, purpose or accomplishment in life.

Those of you politicos also know I didn’t ask for anyone’s permission to run and I don’t ask for anyone’s permission on how to vote. This takes power away from people who are used to having it. And what has ever been more dangerous in our society than a man in pursuit or at risk of loss of power?

I consistently do what I think is in the best interest of Montclair in reflecting who we are and in service of all of you, without regard for how anything I do will play to broader political audiences. I will keep speaking up, challenging existing power structures and the way things have been done, because the trajectory that we’re on as a society just isn’t sustainable and tough decisions need to be made by people who aren’t afraid to make them.

I grew up fighting for my own rights as a gay man and have served in this movement for almost 20 years now. I think in this community of activists, many of you can relate to my desire to help create Out Montclair to advocate for the human rights of this marginalized group and to build an incredible community and quality of life for us here in Montclair. As those of you who work for non-profit organizations know — we don’t do it for the money. 

People who have concerns about Lackawanna Plaza deserve to have their very valid and heart-felt concerns addressed, not exploited. From the beginning, I’ve been committed to listening, doing the work, taking my time, and acting responsibly. That work will continue.

Thank you,

-Peter