Frank Vélez is a proud lifelong resident of Belleville. He is a public sector professional, and has served Belleville families on both the Belleville Town Council and Board of Education.

Councilman Frank Vélez believes in standing up to overdevelopment, bettering recreational services for children and seniors, and getting back to the basics of local government: putting people, not big developers, first.

As a Belleville Board of Education Member, Frank advocated for special needs families, educators, and residents looking for greater academic opportunities for their children; with experience negotiating important district contracts.

Frank Vélez has worked at the federal level, serving as a Congressional Staffer for the late Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. On the federal level, Frank connected residents and families across New Jersey to important federal services, collaborated with elected and appointed officials in more than 30 municipalities across 3 counties, and was charged with office communications between residents, stakeholders, and federal agencies.

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

Councilman Vélez is running to bring needed change and important local & federal experience to the Mayor’s Office. Frank plans to soon settle down and start a family in the town he’s been proud to serve and grow up in.

Michelle Rodríguez is a dedicated Bilingual/ESL Educator, proud lifelong Belleville resident, and daughter of immigrants, giving her a deep personal connection to the community she seeks to serve.

She believes in strengthening public education, supporting responsible, community-centered development, and ensuring local leadership reflects the needs of working families of all backgrounds.

With over 11 years of experience in public education, Michelle has worked closely with students and families from diverse backgrounds. She was honored as Governor’s Educator of the Year during the 2021–2022 school year and has contributed to curriculum development, mentored new teachers, and served as a clinical educator.

Michelle holds a Master’s degree in Literacy, certifications as a Reading Specialist and Supervisor, and a graduate degree in language, with a focus on bridging the gaps and ensuring clear communication across the Township.

Michelle Rodríguez is running for Council to bring her experience in education, advocacy, and community engagement to Town Hall, and to help build a stronger Belleville for every resident.