Satenik Margaryan is running for an At-Large Council seat on Bloomfield’s Town Council with a commitment to transparency, accountability, and sustainable progress. As a 14-year resident of Bloomfield and a mother of two children in the local school system, she has a strong personal investment in the community. Her professional background as a criminologist and Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice at Borough of Manhattan Community College (CUNY) reflects her dedication to education, justice, and policy. With over 24 years of experience in higher education, she has played a crucial role in shaping future law enforcement professionals and policymakers.

As an immigrant who arrived in the U.S. at 21, Margaryan understands the challenges of building a new life and is passionate about supporting immigrant communities. She advocates for an inclusive and welcoming Bloomfield where all residents, regardless of background, can thrive. Additionally, she prioritizes climate resilience, particularly in light of the town’s vulnerability to extreme weather events like Hurricane Ida. Her research on flood prevention and mitigation underscores her commitment to sustainable policies that protect both the environment and the community.

Margaryan has been an active participant in local governance and advocacy, serving on Bloomfield’s Civil Rights Commission, the Rent Leveling Board, and the Watsessing Home and School Association in various leadership roles. She is also a Democratic County Committee Member for Bloomfield’s Ward 3, District 2, working to enhance civic engagement. If elected, she pledges to advocate for responsible township budgeting, ethical contract oversight, and efficient public safety policies. She envisions a future for Bloomfield that is fair, transparent, and environmentally responsible, and she calls on residents to join her in building a stronger and more inclusive community.

Platform

  • Establish Effective Oversight of Public Safety

    Law Enforcement & Fire Department: We will work to ensure that our first responders receive the support, training, and resources they need while remaining fully accountable to the community. 

    Reintroduce the Public Safety Director: Consolidating oversight of police and fire services under a dedicated Public Safety Director, will streamline communication, enhance emergency response, and create a more efficient public safety system.

    Create a Civilian Oversight Board

    Working in partnership with law enforcement, this board will review concerns, recommend improvements, and foster positive relationships between officers and residents.

    Conduct Targeted Audits to Eliminate Wasteful Spending

    We will champion regular, detailed evaluations of police and fire department budgets. By identifying inefficiencies, we can redirect funds toward the technology, training, and resources that truly keep our community safe.

  • Open and Honest Township Spending

    Independent Forensic Auditor

    We will engage a trusted, third-party auditor to review township accounts and contracts to help prevent misuse of funds and restore public confidence.

    Bid Review Commission

    Establish a commission of experts and community members to examine bids and contracts to guarantee fair competition, prevent conflicts of interest, and secure the best value for taxpayers.

    Make the budget process more democratic

    Residents will have a direct say in how public funds are allocated. Through workshops, surveys, and town halls, we will invite community input so that local priorities—such as improved roads and parks — are fully reflected in spending.

  • Prioritize Climate Change in Township Decisions

    We understand that sustainable policies are not optional—they’re critical to our future. We will work to integrate climate considerations into every level of decision-making, from infrastructure projects to zoning laws.

    Increase Solar Installations

    Installing solar panels on municipal buildings and parking lots, will reduce our reliance on non-renewable energy sources and save money in the long run. We will prioritize partnerships with clean energy providers to make this vision a reality.

    Transform Impervious Spaces

    Converting paved areas into pervious surfaces significantly improves stormwater management, reduces  flooding risks and replenishes groundwater. We will advocate for green roofs, permeable pavements, and other innovative solutions throughout the township.

    Green Infrastructure in New Developments

    All new construction should meet modern environmental standards. Developers  will be encouraged—if not required—to incorporate green roofs, rain gardens, and energy-efficient building materials, ensuring our community grows sustainably.

  • Foster Community Connections

    We will seek to strengthen relationships with neighboring towns, sharing resources and knowledge to create a more connected region.

    Collaborate for Regional Climate Action

    Climate challenges cross municipal boundaries. Coordinating with adjacent communities on flood mitigation, air quality improvement, and disaster preparedness ensures a united and effective response to environmental threats.

    Learn From Regional Successes

    Partnering with towns and cities that have successfully implemented forward-thinking policies—ranging from recycling initiatives to community policing—will bring the best ideas home, constantly improving township services.

  • Electing Satenik Margaryan as Councilwoman- At- Large is a vote for an inclusive, transparent, and forward-thinking government. Together, we can:

    • Ensure our public safety agencies are accountable and well-managed.

    • Promote honesty and responsibility in township budgeting and contracts.

    • Safeguard our environment through bold, sustainable projects.

    • Strengthen relationships with neighboring communities to benefit all residents.

    Join us in building a vibrant, safe, and sustainable future—one that reflects the needs and hopes of every member of our diverse township.