As Union City gears up for the November election, residents find themselves at a critical crossroads- facing decisions that will shape the future of our city for years to come. With a struggling budget, a proposed business tax increase on the table, and key leadership positions up for grabs, this election is one of the most pivotal in recent memory.
The race for mayor is a centerpiece of the election, with longtime city council member Emily Duncan making a bid for the position. Duncan, a career politician who has already served three terms on the council, is positioned as the hand-picked successor to current Mayor Carol Dutra-Vernaci, who is terming out. However, Duncan’s candidacy has sparked a wave of concern among voters who fear a continuation of the same short-sighted policies that many argue have failed the city.
Duncan has a track record of supporting tax increases, often justifying them by threatening residents that failing to approve these hikes would result in cuts to essential services like police and fire. Critics claim that these tactics amount to scare tactics, forcing the community into accepting higher taxes rather than the council addressing the city’s financial issues through more responsible government spending.
Union City has consistently struggled to meet its budget, and Duncan’s approach to handling these shortfalls has been to advocate for tax hikes. The business tax increase measure, which is on the November ballot, could be a crucial point of contention. Many local businesses are concerned that this increase will stifle growth, drive companies away, and make it even harder to attract new investment to the city—an issue that Duncan has repeatedly promised to resolve but, according to many residents, has failed to deliver on during her tenure.
One of the most controversial moments in Duncan’s time on the council came in 2018, when she voted to allow recreational marijuana stores to open in Union City. Her opponents argue that this decision was made without proper protections to safeguard residents, children, and seniors from the potential rise in violent crime that these businesses typically attract. Since then, concerns have only grown about crime and safety under Dutra-Vernaci’s leadership, leaving many questioning whether the outgoing mayor is endorsing Duncan to simply continue many disastrous policies that fail to prioritize the well-being of Union City’s residents.
At the heart of the matter is whether Union City’s future will reflect the needs of its citizens or continue down a path of rising taxes, risky fiscal policies, and a government that doesn’t listen. Voters are growing tired of a leadership style that relies on intimidation and fear-mongering, with little respect for the democratic process or for the voices of concerned residents, in spite of shallow assurances to the contrary.
Meanwhile, city council member Gary Singh has emerged as a compelling alternative to Duncan’s candidacy for mayor. Singh’s platform is focused on fostering a safer, more vibrant Union City where businesses can flourish and residents feel heard. His supporters are hopeful that Singh’s leadership will break from the past, offering a fresh perspective and a commitment to building a brighter future for all.
This election is a defining moment for Union City. Voters must ask themselves whether they want a city where children are safe, businesses are welcomed, and residents thrive, or one that continues to overburden its citizens with taxes and unfulfilled promises. The stakes are high, and the decisions made this November will shape the direction of the city for years to come.
Union City is at a turning point, and its residents must take an active role in determining the future of their community. Will they opt for a forward-thinking leader like Gary Singh, who promises hope, progress, and safety, or will they choose the status quo? The choice is yours, and it will define Union City’s future.