Photo: Patricia Marroquin / Moment / Getty Images
Hudson residents will head to the polls tomorrow (June 24) to decide the Democratic nominee for mayor. Incumbent Kamal Johnson is seeking his fourth two-year term, facing challenger Joseph Ferris. The primary will determine who will represent the Democratic Party in the November general election.
During a recent debate, Johnson and Ferris sparred over key issues such as affordable housing and taxes. Johnson, Hudson's first Black mayor, highlighted his efforts to bring housing to the city, pointing to developments with 420 units in the pipeline, 57% of which are affordable. Ferris criticized Johnson's record, citing $1.8 million in uncollected property taxes and budget increases. He also questioned Johnson's collaboration with the developer Galvan, which has faced criticism for its role in the city's housing crisis.
Ferris, who moved to Hudson in 2022 and works for Hunger Solutions New York, emphasized the need for a city planner and criticized vacant units owned by Galvan. Johnson countered by highlighting his achievements, such as the Wellness Hub for emergency housing, and defended his work with Galvan, mentioning their contributions to the city.
The debate also touched on immigration and homelessness, with Johnson accusing Ferris of not engaging with key community groups. Ferris did not dispute these claims.
Voting will take place from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at polling places citywide. The winner will face independent candidate Peter Spear in November.