1 REPUBLIK STILL CLOSED SINCE THE DOUBLE HOMICIDE SHOOTING LAST SUMMER!
NORTH ARLINGTON – Democratic mayoral candidate John Balwierczak is here asking the question, why is the sports bar 1 Republik still closed since the deadly double shooting last summer and will it ever reopen?
The murders occurred outside this this Ridge Road restaurant and bar. 
Balwierczak, who is challenging two-term mayor Dan Pronti, a real estate agent from Bayonne, asked why the lack of communication with residents on the deadliest murder ever to occur in the borough’s history?
The challenger has been critical of Pronti’s inability to keep residents properly informed.
According to Balwierczak, Pronti has produced two, 12-page newspapers estimated to cost $10,000 each paid by taxpayers and mailed to every home.
Neither edition ever mentioned the double homicide on Ridge Road or the raid on the Belleville Turnpike.
“While I was taping this message, a couple tried to enter realizing the establishment was still closed. If you call the number, no one answers,” noted Balwierczak.
In the case of The Peak, the juice bar that was raided by federal agents last spring for narcotics quickly closed and is now for lease.
Both incidents have shaken residents to the core.
Balwierczak is not satisfied by Pronti’s reaction and response.
“What I seek is clear, timely and accurate information to residents. Pronti is a retired ex-cop. His inability to articulate all the details to the community is disturbing to say the least. Should I win, I’ll have a comprehensive plan of action in cooperation with the public safety and law enforcement communities to ensure North Arlington has all the facts. We need closure on these disturbing criminal acts.” 
To speak with the candidate, call him at (201) 655-8497 or e-mail [email protected]