Roman will face independent in fall

There will be a contest in Linden’s sixth ward city council race after John Kaczor filed as an independent against incumbent John Francis Roman.

This may be the first serious general election contest since 2014 when Democrat Derek Armstead ousted Mayor Richard Gerbounka, but Roman will be hard to beat.  He first won his seat as an off-the-line candidate against Armstead’s team in 2017, and then won 69% in the 2020 primary against a rival backed by the mayor.

“John Kaczor was a friend, confidant, someone who stood up for me when someone else attempted a horrible extortion against my character,” Roman said.  “The feeling I personally feel is that of betrayal.  Maybe anger.  Betrayal.  But, I can’t say I didn’t see this coming. I am one that knows this the best, it’s just “politricks” as one prolific Lindenite would say.  I’m not going to take this personally.  This is Linden.  Worse things have been done to me in the fifteen years I’ve been speaking up and serving the people.”

A former school board member, Ahmed Shehata, has endorsed Roman.

“Throughout his tenure, John has shown exceptional dedication to improving the lives of Sixth Ward residents,” he said.  “His tireless efforts to address community concerns, advocate for better infrastructure, and promote educational opportunities have made a positive impact.”