Holley wins endorsements from three ex-Roselle mayors

Jamel Holley’s off-the-line comeback bid for mayor of Roselle has the support of three living former mayors:  Joseph Picaro, Garrett Smith, and Christine Dansereau.

The 43-year-old Holley served as mayor from 2012 to 2015 when he resigned to take his seat in the New Jersey State Assembly.  He served three terms before making an unsuccessful bid for State Senate two years ago.

He is challenging incumbent Donald Shaw in the June 6 Democratic primary.

“I have known Jamel since his days as a student going back to Grace Wilday Middle School and he always had a passion for helping the community,” said Picaro, who served from 1996 to 2004.  “There is no doubt he is the best choice to lead Roselle at this very critical moment.

Smith, who was mayor from 2004 to 2012, said that Holley’s “proven track record leaves no doubt that he is the absolute best person to revitalize and lead Roselle to prominence.”

“Since my time in office, I’ve watched and admired the work Jamel has done for the benefit of all Roselle residents,” he said.  “As a Mayor, Jamel encouraged and developed businesses, revamped services such as the Department of Public Works, recreation and beautified our borough with several park renovations.”

Dansereau said that Holley “has a proven track record and will continue to build community going forward.”

“I have worked closely with Jamel and recognize his ability to work tirelessly for the citizens of Roselle,” Dansereau stated.  “He has secured funding from the state and federal governments and has brought business and opportunity to Roselle.”

While Holley lost the Senate primary by a 62%-33% margin against incumbent Joseph Cryan (D-Union), he carried Roselle by 415 votes, 58%-40%.

In the 2019 primary, Dansereau defeated Shaw by 219 votes, 42%-34%.  Shaw became mayor after she resigned for health reasons in 2020.