Despite a $ 4 Million surplus in the Hoboken Parking Authority operating budget, the Roberts Administration faction of the Hoboken City Council voted 6-3 in favor of a 20% increase in monthly parking garage rates.

Interesting enough, Hoboken Parking Director JOHN COREA while defending the need for the increase stated that the revenue was needed to maintain the garage facilities.    When asked about the $4 Million in surplus funds, COREA admitted that the "PROFITS" garnered from parking meters, garage space rentals, parking violation summonses, and booting/towing vehicles are transferred into the Hoboken GENERAL TREASURY. 

At one time, the purpose of the Hoboken Parking Authority was to create parking within the City.  Four years ago, Mayor Roberts dissolved the autonomous Hoboken Parking Authority and created the city controlled Hoboken Parking Utility.  It is now apparent that the sole purpose of the Hoboken Parking Utility is to operate as a public “for profit” business enterprise with the “surplus funds” used to fund Hoboken City government.

The resolution to increase monthly garage parking rates was sponsored by Councilwoman-at-Large Terry LaBruno and approved by Fourth Ward Council Christopher Campos, Fifth Ward Councilman Michael T. Cricco, Sixth Ward Councilman Nino Giacchi, Councilman-at-Large Ruben Ramos Jr., and Councilman-at-Large Peter Cammarano.

First Ward Councilwoman Theresa Castallano, Second Ward Councilman Richard Del Boccio and Third Ward Councilman Michael Russo voted against the increase.