Righteous Wing
Shundler won after the corrupt democratic administration ran the city into the ground. Following his righting of the ship, the city voted in new democrats.
Conservatives can win municipal elections because issues such as abortion, social security, national defense, etc. do not play a major roll. The voters look at the city falling down around them and say "what the heck - what's the harm".
If you come into Eastern Connecticut campaigning as a conservative - down the line - Republican, you'll lose. I don't know for sure but I bet Shundler did not carry Jersey City in his run for government. I bet all those dems said "thanks - great job" but we don't want you in Trenton.