New recreation and health directors outline priorities for youth, parks and social services

Peter (Pete) Vincent, the mayor’s pick as Acting Director of Recreation, introduced himself and described a multi‑pronged approach to expand year‑round programming, explore indoor recreation facilities and strengthen partnerships with universities and non‑profits. Vincent said he would pursue barter arrangements, partner with New Jersey City University for senior and indoor programming, and assess possibilities for an indoor recreation center and better utilization of Liberty State Park. He also outlined a new community liaison position (to be filled by Tommy Best) with a base salary of $100,000 to enhance neighborhood outreach and program access.

Council members probed whether Liberty State Park opportunities are under municipal control and how to ensure equitable access to new programming citywide; Vincent said the city needs to study available park assets and work with state authorities when appropriate.

Linda Ivey Green was introduced as Director of Health & Human Services. Councilors asked about TNR (trap‑neuter‑return), volunteer onboarding for animal shelter operations and responses to the Heights hospital closure. Green said key priorities include onboarding an in‑house veterinarian to reduce contracting costs and creating an Office of Social Services with case workers and navigators to coordinate mental‑health and homeless services.

What’s next: Both directors will return for formal votes on their appointments and fuller budget and staffing plans; council members requested written implementation steps for in‑house vet hiring, senior programming and Liberty State Park engagement.