Council in Bergen, New Jersey

2026 Primary Election

• Linda Albelli — Candidate for Council in Closter, NJ

  Linda Albelli is a dedicated community leader with a strong background in public service. She previously served two terms on the Closter Borough Council from 2001 to 2006, holding significant roles as Council President, Board of Education Liaison, and Chair of the Department of Public Works. After her time in office, Albelli remained actively engaged in her community. She notably co-chairs the 9/11 Memorial in Closter and is a Past President of the Ladies of the Knickerbocker Hook and Ladder Company. She is also recognized for her transformative work with Closter Seniors, where she introduced a wide array of programs, expanded operating hours, and fostered a vibrant environment for over 150 members. Her commitment to enhancing local services and community welfare reflects her long-standing dedication to Bergen County residents.

• Steven J. Spoto — Director of Communications and Policy in Hackensack, NJ

  Steven Spoto is an innovative public relations, communications, and digital marketing professional. He currently serves as the Director of Communications and Policy for the Bergen County Board of Commissioners, a position he has held since March 2024. Prior to this, he was a Digital Media Advisor for the Bergen County Executive's Office starting in July 2018. In his roles within Bergen County, Spoto has been responsible for driving digital strategy, communication initiatives, leading campaigns to increase tourism, economic development, and investment in the county, and project managing special events. He is also the founder and owner of Open Play Book, a sports media channel.

• Christopher Cho — Incumbent Council Member in Closter, NJ

  Christopher Cho is an incumbent Council Member for the Borough of Closter in Bergen County, New Jersey, seeking election in 2026. A Republican, he brings a robust background as a Project Professional at GEI Consultants, Inc., located in Bloomfield. His career highlights include roles as a Staff Scientist with environmental consulting firms and an Environmental Protection Assistant for the US EPA. Cho is also a Licensed New Jersey Professional Land Surveyor, demonstrating expertise in environmental science and land use that informs his public service. He previously ran for Closter Borough Council in 2021.

• Monica Jethani — Candidate for Council in Closter, NJ

  Monica Jethani is a candidate for Council in Closter, New Jersey, running in 2026 as part of a Republican slate with John Glidden and Chris Cho. She brings decades of combined experience, having served on the Borough Council, Planning Board, Zoning Board, and in various volunteer roles within the community. Jethani is committed to responsible governance, community safety, and preserving Closter's character. Her platform focuses on keeping taxes in check, protecting neighborhoods, advocating for local control over schools, defending Green Acres, and prioritizing public safety to ensure Closter remains an excellent community for families.