City Council

Dr. Michael Russo was born and raised in Hoboken. A graduate of Hoboken High, Michael went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Richard Stockton University, a Master of Science degree in Physical Therapy from Rutgers (formally, The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey) and a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Utica College. Michael has been in practice as a Physical Therapist since 2001, owning multiple private practice locations. Dr. Russo founded the New Jersey Institute of Balance, a premier orthopedic & vestibular rehabilitation clinic. Since beginning his career he has specialized in Orthopedics, Sports Care and Vestibular rehabilitation.

Dr. Russo learned the importance of service to his community early in life, from his earliest days as a Boy Scout, where he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. The drive to help others continued through his adolescence and young adulthood. His volunteer work as a PAL football coach, an assistant scoutmaster and work as a high school summer supplemental education instructor has given him a unique perspective on the lives of many families, and a great sense of fulfillment. Dr. Russo has provided pro bono care for athletes at all levels, including student athletes in their early childhood through high school and college. He has volunteered his services since the beginning of his career to various high schools in New Jersey, but most notably his hometown and alma mater, Hoboken High School’s Football program. He also worked with Olympic athletes treating the national Israeli Ice Dance Team.

Dr. Russo serves as the Standard Bearer of a non-profit organization, Hoboken Pride (formally, The Michael Russo Civic Association), where he is able to provide various community activities for the many residents of Hoboken. He also serves on the Madeline Fiadini LoRe Foundation board of trustees, raising money to provide cancer screenings for those without access to these lifesaving procedures. Through these non-profit organizations, Michael is able to help the many residents of Hudson County and raise money for other local charities.

A natural extension of the yearning need to help others, Michael entered a career in public service as a member of the Zoning Board of Adjustment in 2000. In late 2003, Michael was then elected as the Third Ward Council person in Hoboken, where he still currently serves. As an avid tenant advocate, he was elected to serve as a commissioner of the Hoboken Housing Authority, by his council colleagues, again having the privilege to serve his neighbors. With his unique expertise in health care, Dr. Russo was also asked to serve on the City of Hoboken’s Health Insurance Commission.

In his private life, Michael married Lisa Baptista in 2009. She is a registered dietitian and certified specialist in pediatric nutrition. Although now she has the most important job of all…being a mom. Happily married and living in Hoboken, Michael and Lisa are raising their beautiful children Lia Grace, Jack Anthony and their twins Michele Stella and Michael Dean.

Dr. Russo’s primary drive in life has always been the love for his family and his faith in God. In addition, his upbringing, education and his caring nature have led him to always help others.

Committees

  • Community Development and Housing
  • Revenue and Finance & Infrastructure Ad Hoc (Chair)
  • Hoboken Land Yard
Telephone: 201-420-2000
Mobile phone:
201-401-9687 (text is best)
Office:
Address:
City Clerks Office 94 Washington St. Hoboken, NJ 07030
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