SOUTH AMBOY — Gov. Chris Christie has appointed resident Saverio Sagliocco as a commissioner on the city’s housing authority, which oversees the work of the executive director.
Commissioner roles are unpaid.
There was an opening on the housing authority following a resignation by one of its members, Sagliocco said, adding that he was approached by state Sen. Sam Thompson (DMiddlesex) about the opening through Sagliocco’s role as chairman of the South Amboy Republican Organization.
“He askedme if I’d be interested in that position, so he put my name forward to the governor’s office,” Sagliocco said.
The process included a survey, a phone interview and a New Jersey State Police background investigation, he said.
The executive director role, which is a federal appointment, is currently being filled by Eric Chubenko on an interim basis. Former executive director Tom O’Leary pleaded guilty in early March to conspiracy to defraud the Federal Election Commission after being charged in connection with a scheme to funnel thousands of dollars through straw contributors to Joseph Vas’ campaign for U.S. Congress in 2006. He also pleaded guilty to one count of tax evasion, according to the FBI.
“I don’t know when there will be another executive director, and hopefully with a new executive director there’ll be a change in direction,” Sagliocco said.
Regardless of the leadership, he said, “I’d like tomake sure that the board is operating the way it is supposed to,” he said of his new role. He wants to see that the board is keeping accurate minutes and adhering to budgets.
The South Amboy Housing Authority handles both senior housing and low-income rentals, referred to as Section 8 housing.
Sagliocco said he wants to address some concerns he has heard about senior residence McCarthy Towers, particularly in keeping the building at an acceptable temperature.
“I’ve heard … it’s too cold in the winter, too hot in the summertime,” he said.
He also has heard that seniors feel they’re not being taken seriously and are not being treated respectfully by officials.
“I just want to make sure that the people who live in the towers, their needs are being taking care of. They shouldn’t be yelled at, that’s for certain,” Sagliocco said. “They’re the ones who are most vulnerable and most affected.”
As for the low-income housing, Sagliocco said he wants to see that inspections are being done to ensure the properties are being maintained according to set standards.
Sagliocco said that after losing his bid for City Council in 2010, he’s happy to be able to find a way to serve the community.
“I see it as another opportunity to serve the people of South Amboy,” he said.