Priorities

From 2017 to 2025, James “Jimmy” Kontolios has proudly served the residents of Ridgefield on the Borough Council. Throughout his service, James has focused on protecting taxpayers, strengthening public safety, improving infrastructure, modernizing Borough government, and preserving the character of our community.

As Ridgefield faces rising costs and increasing pressure on public services, James is running to continue delivering experienced, independent, and resident-focused leadership.

Developments should be based on careful planning, the capacity of local infrastructure, and the long-term interests of Ridgefield residents.

Throughout his time on the Borough Council, James has consistently opposed harmful duplex expansion and large developments that could increase traffic, reduce parking, worsen drainage concerns, or place additional pressure on Borough services.

James has also opposed the proposed 60-unit apartment building behind Carpenter Place because he believes a project of that size could create significant long-term impacts for the surrounding neighborhood and the wider community.

James will continue supporting responsible development while opposing projects that place additional costs and burdens on residents without providing a clear benefit to Ridgefield.

Families deserve responsible financial management and a Borough government that respects the burden placed on taxpayers.

As a member of the Finance Committee, James helped keep Ridgefield’s municipal property taxes stable despite rising operating costs by carefully reviewing spending and protecting essential services. Although Ridgefield remains among the lowest-taxed municipalities in Bergen County, many families are now feeling the strain of recent tax increases and higher household expenses.

James will work to restore stronger fiscal discipline by reviewing Borough spending, identifying unnecessary costs, pursuing grants and other outside funding, and demanding clear justification before any additional tax increase is approved.

Keeping Ridgefield safe has always been one of James's highest priorities.

As Chair of the Police Committee, James helped hire new police officers, expand traffic camera coverage, improve radar speed enforcement, install flashing pedestrian crossing signs, and support the Junior Police Academy.

As a member of the Fire Committee, he supported the purchase of new fire trucks, upgraded protective equipment, and established a stipend program to help volunteer firefighters with the costs of serving the community. 

James will continue making sure Ridgefield’s police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and emergency responders have the resources they need to keep our community safe.

Infrastructure investments should solve today’s problems while preparing Ridgefield for the future.

James has worked with Public Works, PSE&G, Veolia, and state agencies to coordinate utility upgrades with road resurfacing projects, improve underground infrastructure, and replace municipal lighting with energy-efficient LED systems that reduce long-term operating costs. 

He also partnered with the State Assembly and the New Jersey Department of Transportation to widen the Grand Avenue exit at Route 46 and install the long-awaited traffic signal at Route 5. 

Recognizing the growing impact of cut-through traffic from George Washington Bridge congestion, James has worked with state legislators, law enforcement, and Google Maps and Waze representatives to encourage routing changes that better protect Ridgefield neighborhoods. 

James will continue investing in infrastructure that improves safety, mobility, and quality of life.

Strong parks strengthen strong communities.

James helped secure major improvements to Veterans’ Park, including upgrades to the Steve Pellino Basketball Court, baseball fields, and tennis courts. He also supported improvements to Willis Field, including new pickleball courts, turf, track improvements, LED lighting, and electric vehicle charging stations. 

James believes recreation facilities should continue serving residents of every age while being maintained responsibly for future generations.

Protecting Ridgefield means protecting our environment.

James helped lead the fight against a proposed gas-fired power plant that threatened local air quality and public health. He also worked with the State Government to help secure a $500,000 state appropriation for the Wolf Creek cleanup and repairs to the collapsed retaining wall near the Clark Avenue Bridge. 

James will continue pursuing environmental improvements while seeking outside funding whenever possible to reduce costs for taxpayers.

Residents deserve a Borough government that is efficient, professional, and accessible.

James led the modernization of Ridgefield’s Building Department, making it more professional, resident-friendly, and easier to navigate. Drawing on his background in electronics and information technology, he also helped strengthen Ridgefield’s technology systems and cybersecurity protections. 

James believes technology should improve government services and make it easier for residents to interact with Borough Hall.