James Solomon is running for Mayor with a clear goal: bring down homelessness to make our streets and public spaces safer for everyone. His plan combines compassion and smart solutions to address the crisis head-on and improve quality of life across Jersey City.

Mayoral candidate James Solomon said: “We can bring down homelessness while also improving quality of life in Jersey City. For too long, homelessness has been an issue for Jersey City and it is one I am prepared to solve as Mayor. We don’t have to just accept things, we can change them, and this policy will do just that by adopting a housing first approach, improving mental health services and stopping homelessness in the first place by creating thousands of affordable housing units.” 

Recent data from the Point-in-Time Count reveals a troubling 16% increase in homelessness across Jersey City from 2023 to 2024. Solomon believes that while homelessness is a multifaceted issue, with roots in housing, mental health, and equity, targeted policies can bring substantial improvements. As part of his mayoral campaign, Solomon has crafted a bold housing plan and intends to leverage collaboration with County and State Governments to optimize resources and extend the impact of every dollar spent.

Solomon's comprehensive plan highlights three key pillars:

1. Preventing Homelessness:

Solomon emphasizes prevention as the cornerstone of his strategy, proposing to create thousands of affordable housing units and combat exploitative rental practices. Measures include enforcing rent control laws, banning unreasonable rent hikes, and implementing stricter regulations on landlord practices. Building on his successful Right to Counsel ordinance, Solomon will expand support for families at risk of homelessness through targeted rental assistance and rapid rehousing programs. By partnering with local nonprofits and places of worship, Solomon aims to amplify the impact of existing prevention efforts.

2. Adopting a "Housing First" Approach:

For individuals and families already experiencing homelessness, Solomon advocates for a "Housing First" model, which prioritizes providing housing without preconditions such as shelter stays or completion of recovery programs. By utilizing expert outreach teams and centralized data tracking, his administration plans to expand supportive housing units and offer necessary services including case management, mental health treatment, and addiction counseling. Collaborating with County Government, nonprofit providers, neighboring cities, and healthcare organizations, Solomon will establish an integrated homelessness response system designed for long-term success.

3. Enhancing Mental Health Services:

Recognizing the intrinsic link between mental health and homelessness, Solomon is committed to increasing access to evidence-based mental health programs for those at risk. Programs like Assertive Community Treatment will be expanded to offer intensive treatment, support, and rehabilitation in community settings, facilitating the transition of chronically homeless individuals from the streets to stable housing and long-term wellbeing.