Independent Leadership. Resident-Focused Government.
Meet Jim & Frank
James Folkerts
Jim Folkerts is a longtime Oakland resident of 28 years with advanced degrees from Fordham University. As Chair of the Sports Association of Oakland, he provides strong leadership in recreation programs and youth sports through family-oriented initiatives that enrich residents of all ages. Retired after a 40-year career in cybersecurity at IBM and UPS, he brings valuable expertise in problem-solving, technology, and security to borough governance. A proven servant leader, Jim is actively involved in the Public Events Committee and senior support initiatives, consistently placing Oakland families first through hands-on community service.
Frank Furbacher
Frank Furbacher is a husband, father of three young children, youth coach, and Oakland resident who believes local government works best when residents feel heard and informed. Professionally, Frank serves as a Senior Director for a national consulting firm, where he helps organizations solve problems, improve operations, and build stronger relationships with the people they serve. He hopes to bring those same skills to Oakland's town council.
Jim Folkerts & Frank Furbacher for Oakland!
Commitment to Fiscal Responsibility and Protecting Taxpayer Resources
Jim and Frank will scrutinize municipal spending and challenge the pattern of budget cap-exceedance ordinances that have driven recent tax levy increases, including the 3.49% rise approved for 2026.In contrast to the current decision-making approach, which routinely supports incremental contract amendments, personnel stipends, and fee adjustments, resulting in personnel costs comprising approximately 57% of the budget—Jim and Frank will prioritize cost containment, rigorous efficiency evaluations, and alternative measures that reduce the financial burden on homeowners.
Jim and Frank are running as independents because they believe every issue should be evaluated based on what's best for Oakland residents—not political parties, pressure from political organizations, or predetermined voting blocs.
Advocates for Expanded Transparency and Resident Participation
Residents deserve the opportunity to be heard before major decisions are made. We support restoring a second public comment period so residents can provide informed feedback after hearing council discussion and debate. This stands in direct opposition to Council President Talamini’s vote against the motion at the April 28, 2026, meeting, which maintained a single early-session comment period (limited to three minutes per speaker).
Residents Before Politics
As independents, Jim and Frank are not bound by the “go-along-to-get-along” dynamic observed in Republican-led votes on spending measures, professional-service contracts, and procedural rules. They will bring independent judgment to council deliberations, evaluating each proposal based on its impact on residents rather than maintaining internal harmony. This independence builds on the successful precedent set by recent independent council members who have introduced balanced perspectives to borough governance.
Focus on Sustainable, Resident-First Governance
Jim Folkerts’s recreation expertise and Frank Furbacher’s business leadership equip them to address infrastructure, youth programs, and community initiatives while safeguarding long-term fiscal health. They will prioritize practical solutions that reflect resident input, contrasting with decisions that have expanded obligations (e.g., affordable-housing compliance costs and development-related expenditures) without corresponding emphasis on cost mitigation or broader public consultation.
What We Stand For
Transparency
Fiscal Responsibility
Fiscal Responsibility
Residents should not be surprised by major decisions. Information must be easier to access, understand, and discuss.
Fiscal Responsibility
Fiscal Responsibility
Fiscal Responsibility
Protecting taxpayers by asking tough questions, carefully reviewing costs, and actively seeking grants and outside funding opportunities.
Community
Fiscal Responsibility
Public Safety
Supporting recreation, seniors, and families while strengthening the connections that make Oakland special.
Public Safety
Smart Planning
Public Safety
Continuing to support our police, fire, EMS, and the vital services that keep Oakland one of Bergen County’s safest communities.
Smart Planning
Smart Planning
Smart Planning
Protecting Oakland’s character while managing growth and development responsibly.
Our Priorities
- Restore a second public comment period.
- Improve communication around major projects and decisions.
- Ensure residents have meaningful opportunities to be heard.
- Spend taxpayer dollars responsibly.
- Support public safety, recreation, and senior programs.
- Protect Oakland's small-town character.