Former assistant state treasurer launches Hoboken mayoral run

Former U.S. Treasury official Dini Ajmani announced she is running to be mayor of Hoboken.

Ajmani worked in Gov. Phil Murphy’s administration as assistant treasurer. The nonpartisan election kicked off after Mayor Ravi Bhalla announced he would run for Assembly in the 32nd district as a Democrat.

“Hoboken is home,” Ajmani said in a release. “This is where my husband and I have lived for close to a decade. Like every Hoboken family, we are so proud of our city and want to ensure it remains strong, protected, and above all, affordable — both now and in the future.”

Hoboken Councilwoman Emily Jabbour launched a campaign for mayor last month.

Ajmani most recently worked as a deputy assistant secretary at the Treasury under President Joe Biden.

She said she would use her expertise as a treasurer to maximize the impact of the city’s funds.

“As mayor, I will put my experience to work as custodian of residents’ hard-earned tax dollars—keeping a tight lid on property taxes and addressing high rents,” she said. “I will focus on fiscal sustainability so we can continue to provide essential services like paved roads, clean streets, parking, and safe public spaces.”

In addition to Jabbour, possible candidates include three city councilmembers: Michael Russo, the son of a former mayor; Ruben Ramos, a former assemblyman; and Tiffanie Fisher, a staunch Bhalla critic.