Council in Bergen, New Jersey

2026 Primary Election

• Jean Marie Cerbasi — Candidate for Council in Northvale, NJ

  Jean Marie Cerbasi is a Democratic candidate who ran for a Council seat in Northvale in the 2025 elections. In the Democratic primary, she secured enough votes to advance, campaigning alongside Kenneth K. Cho for two available positions. Subsequently, in the general election for the Northvale Council, Cerbasi sought one of the two three-year terms. She garnered 887 votes but was ultimately not elected to the council. Her public profile, based on these records, indicates her involvement in local municipal politics.

• David E. Sillery — Financial Analyst in Hackensack, NJ

  David Sillery is a financial analyst based in Hackensack, New Jersey, currently serving with the Bergen County Clerk's Office since 2017. His professional background includes extensive experience in the retail industry, where he held various management and merchandising roles. Sillery previously worked as a consultant and held positions as a merchandising executive at H.I.S. International, senior product development manager and senior buyer at Walmart, and divisional merchandise manager at Steve and Barry's and The Children's Place. He also served as a merchandise manager for Gap Inc. and began his career as an intern at Macy's. He is an alumnus of LIM College.

• Hovannes Bakalian — Incumbent Council Member in Northvale, NJ

  Hovannes Bakalian, an incumbent Northvale Councilman, seeks re-election to the Northvale Council in 2026. His career in property management, commercial real estate, and industrial sales informs his practical perspective on fostering community growth through collaboration between landlords, businesses, and residents. Running with Mayor Joe McGuire and Council candidate Laura Fernandez, he is committed to delivering results, strengthening the community, and building a stronger future for Northvale, emphasizing fiscal responsibility and transparent government.

• Laura N. Fernandez — Incumbent Councilwoman in Northvale, NJ

  Laura Fernandez is an incumbent Councilwoman in Northvale, New Jersey, having joined the council in 2024. Motivated by a deep love for her community, she and her husband Adam chose Northvale to raise their family. Professionally, she brings 15 years of marketing and communications experience, including digital strategy and social media expertise, to her role. On the council, Laura focuses on enhancing government efficiency, reducing costs, and fostering community connection. She currently serves on several committees, including Beautification, Parks & Playgrounds, Municipal Court, and Library. She is running alongside Mayor Joe McGuire and Councilman Hovannes Bakalian in the 2026 election.