From Belleville classrooms to public service.

Councilman Frank Vélez is proud to be a product of the Belleville Public Schools. He attended School #7 and graduated from Belleville High School, where he learned the values of hard work, collaboration, and pride in his community.

Frank later served as a Congressional Staffer to the late Congressman Bill Pascrell Jr., where he worked on the front lines of constituent services and federal government operations. In this role, he assisted residents in navigating federal agencies, managed constituent casework, and coordinated with local, county, and state officials to resolve issues affecting individuals, families, and small businesses. He worked with municipalities and community leaders across more than 30 municipalities in three counties, helping connect residents to federal resources and ensuring their concerns were addressed efficiently.

Through this work, Frank gained firsthand insight into how government functions across different communities. He saw how policies impact municipalities differently, how coordination between levels of government can solve real problems, and how strong working relationships with local leaders help deliver results for residents.

In addition to his public service experience, Frank works as a Communications & Marketing Consultant, advising groups on strategic messaging, outreach, and public engagement. In this role, he helps develop communication strategies, strengthen community relationships, and guide teams in communicating their mission and priorities clearly and effectively.

Showing up for every Belleville resident and family.

Frank Vélez was first elected to serve Belleville on the Board of Education because he believed that strong public schools are the foundation of a healthy community. On the Board, he focused on strengthening academic programs, expanding early childhood education, supporting educators, and advocating for students of all abilities. His work reflected a commitment to ensuring that every child, regardless of background or ability, has access to a high-quality education and the support needed to succeed.

Building on that experience, Frank later went on to serve on the Belleville Town Council after completing his full term to take a broader role in improving daily quality of life for residents. As a Council member, he has worked to promote responsible development, protect neighborhood character, and push for greater transparency and accountability in local government. He has approached the role with a focus on listening to residents, asking tough questions, and making decisions guided by the long-term interests of the community rather than short-term political convenience.

In addition to his work on the Board of Education and Town Council, Frank remains actively engaged in the civic life of Belleville. Through this role and his involvement with organizations such as the Essex Suburban Chamber of Commerce and the Silver Lake Civic Association, he works to strengthen community engagement, support local voices, and encourage participation in the civic process. Frank believes that strong communities are built when leadership is accessible, accountable, and rooted in service.