New Jersey is still in control of Atlantic City’s finances, but city officials are welcoming a new approach on the issues from the state’s new Governor.
Governor Phil Murphy—who succeeded former Governor Chris Christie last month—has already met with Atlantic City’s Mayor Frank Gilliam to discuss the city’s status.
According to the Press of Atlantic City, Gilliam said following his meeting with Murphy that the governor assured him Atlantic City was a “high priority.”
However, no timetable has been set for the new governor to decide on whether to continue or end the state’s control of the city. The state took over the city’s finances in November 2016. During his campaign, Murphy said he wanted to end the takeover.
Meanwhile, representatives of the Governor’s Office met with the union that represents city’s fire department. John Varallo Jr., president of the union, told the Press the meeting was productive.
“The approach that they are using feels different than in the past,” Varallo said. “It’s a more positive approach. They are taking time to consider everything. There is no political agenda.”
In January, Superior Court Judge Julio Mendez ordered both the state and union to attend two-court mandated mediation sessions to try to resolve issues regarding salary cuts and a possible 10 to 12 more layoffs. The sessions have since been put on hold as the new administration reviews the case, the Press reported.
