TEANECK, N.J. — Crystal Y. Pressley wants Teaneck residents to get more answers before Township Hall makes major decisions.

Running under the slogan “Teaneck Tough Together,” Pressley is pitching affordability, accountability and stronger local businesses as key pieces of her campaign.

Pressley, a 31-year Teaneck resident and health insurance producer, said property taxes are one of the biggest concerns facing residents.

Her answer is to bring more money into town rather than simply asking homeowners to pay more.

Pressley said Teaneck needs to fill empty storefronts, help existing businesses stay open and attract businesses that add to the tax base.

She also wants elected officials to spend more time talking directly to residents.

At the candidates forum, Pressley said officials cannot stay behind the Council dais and expect everyone to come to them.

Some residents, she said, may stay away because they do not believe their voices will be heard.

Pressley wants elected officials to get out into the community, meet residents face-to-face and find out what they actually need.

On Crossroads at the former Stop & Shop site, Pressley did not take a final position.

Instead, she called for a closer review of the agreement and independent information on traffic and drainage before the township makes a major decision.

Flooding and infrastructure are also high on her list.

Pressley pointed to problems around Kipp Street and the township’s Watershed Improvement Plan and said Teaneck needs to take environmental issues seriously.

She also called for environmental testing at Votee Park.

Her approach is to get the facts first, then make the decision.

Pressley also emphasized the need for accountability inside Township Hall and for residents to have a greater voice in the boards and committees that help shape municipal policy.

Her campaign's broader message is summed up in its slogan: Teaneck Tough Together.

For Pressley, that means a town that brings in more revenue, asks tougher questions and gives residents a bigger role in the decisions affecting their neighborhoods.