There’s still no Paterson City Council President. One is looking to perpetuate his presindency others looking to bring change and step up to the task.
BY MEREDITH MANDELL
NorthJersey.com
STAFF WRITER
NorthJersey.com
STAFF WRITER
PATERSON — The City Council deadlocked on its vote to elect a council president Wednesday, angering members of the public who contend city officials can’t work together.
None of the nominees for council president — Rigo Rodriguez, William B. McKoy and Aslon Goow Sr. — was able to muster a majority during city government’s annual reorganization.
For McKoy, who served as council president for the last year, the vote failed, with council members Rodriguez, Andre Sayegh, Goow, Julio Tavarez and Jeffery Jones voting against him. Along with McKoy’s vote for himself, Vera Ames-Garnes, Anthony Davis and Ken Morris voted in his favor.
Likewise, votes for Goow and Rodriguez failed, with Goow getting only three votes — from himself, Sayegh and Tavarez — and Rodriguez receiving four, from Sayegh, Tavarez, Goow and himself.
After rounds of failed votes, members recessed for about an hour to discuss the stalemate in their chambers, but returned without an agreement.
In frustration, Rodriguez abruptly got up in the middle of the meeting and left.
“This is a joke,” he said bitterly. “I cannot support such things.”
City Attorney Susan Champion said that because council members couldn’t agree, they would need to select a temporary council president for each meeting until they appoint a permanent president.
Residents who came to speak during the public portion of the meeting expressed anger with the indecision, some hissing or muttering, “disgrace, disgrace.”
“A small group cannot agree to pick a leader — I think that says something about the state of Paterson’s political climate,” said Tom Watterson, 88, a lifelong resident. “It was the race card.”
Wilkin Santana, a middle school teacher and former city council candidate, said he also felt the council was divided along racial lines.
“The person should be chosen on merit — not on race, gender or ethnicity,” Santana said.
Others simply expressed disappointment with the lack of cooperation.
School Board member Jonathan Hodges said that the stalemate is an example of why Paterson often gets a “black eye.” He said elected officials frequently let down the public.
Davis said the contention stemmed from disagreement about how the public portion of the meeting is run, though he would not specify what the complaints are.
“This isn’t about race; it’s about ego,” said Davis. But, it was good the stalemate was aired in public, he said.
“It shows how divided we are,” Davis said. “This didn’t happen overnight; this has been brewing.”
The next council meeting is scheduled for July 14.
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74 responses so far ↓
1 Jessie // Jul 2, 2009 at 8:59 pm
Part of being a leader is to share and to provide others the opportunity to prove themselves. I don’t know why councilman Mckoy wants to hold to the position, having other members who are qualified like councilman Goow and Rodriguez. That’s being selfish and a weak leader.
2 Anonymous // Jul 3, 2009 at 4:34 am
didn’t McCoy hold that position more than once?
3 concerned resident // Jul 3, 2009 at 2:46 pm
I’m just wondering with so many pictures and articles on this site why is that we don’t see any pictures or articles about the african american parade as of yet, or is this only a Domican site
4 concerned resident // Jul 3, 2009 at 2:51 pm
To answer ur question about the presidency of the city council, it’s quite obvious why Bill should keep it, because first of all Alson’s too rebellistic and lacks adequate people skills and Rigo needs to gain more experience on the city’s policies and procedures
5 Unity // Jul 4, 2009 at 8:32 pm
GOOW should get it; hands down! After all these years he deserves it.
6 Anonymous // Jul 6, 2009 at 10:46 pm
why is rigo doing there. Trust me I know him he just want the money he does not help. The men can’t even speak English right.
He going to win only cause he has family that work. With him
7 Anonymous // Jul 6, 2009 at 10:52 pm
don’t vote for RIgo the other day i when to his office and he made a phone call. He did’t even know what he was talking about.
Get some one who speak english good
Ranchetero estipido
8 Kelly // Jul 7, 2009 at 4:27 pm
I believe in opportunity and I’m against those who believe they are irreplaceable.
The greed of McKoy is keeping the city without a President. Any of the other two should have the opportunity to be president. I also hate to see Jonathan Hodges suggesting that race is the issue, when he says that this shows how divided we are in the city. He tends to use it for his own advantage, trying to present a Latino Vs Afro-American battle, which doesn’t exist.
9 Newest 3rd ward resident // Jul 7, 2009 at 5:59 pm
I believe that we should leave all the nonsense aside and work together. Many of the council members have their own agendas since day one. This is not benefiting the community at all. As elected officials they should be looking after the best interest of the people of Paterson. If you watch the council meetings you could see everyone’s agendas and how divided they are. Mr.” Davis said it best. “This didn’t happen overnight; this has been brewing.”
Mr. Mckoy should give someone else an opportunity to show their leadership and see how they could improve the meetings. I have not seen any improvements since the last president. I noticed that the time alloted to each council member to speak is different. He lets a specific council person speak for a long time but others are cut short. The meetings are not being ran fairly. I want to see change.
10 Neo // Jul 8, 2009 at 12:02 pm
To the 3rd Anonymous,
And you should learn how to write using proper English!!!!
Good day to you!
11 Anonymous // Jul 8, 2009 at 4:55 pm
What is your vote for him
Good day to you
12 Anonymous // Jul 9, 2009 at 8:04 pm
Mr. McKoy tends to stop Tavarez and Rigo from speaking multiple times. He doesnt do that when Jones or Morris are speaking (Or even Davis and Vera). Why is that????? Why is it that Julio Tavarez cannot speak without being stopped by Mr. McKoy?????? I think Goow should get it, but he lacks diplomacy and people’s skills.
13 Anonymous // Jul 9, 2009 at 8:07 pm
New 3rd Ward Resident:
Well, if you want to see change VOTE for change. Stop voting for the same people. This is why we have so many issues.
14 Anonymous // Jul 10, 2009 at 9:21 am
I’m glad to see that Andre Sayegh moved someone to the 3rd ward to compete against McKoy in the next election. Watch out McKoy, one of Andre’s boys is coming to challenge you.
Another question, does anyone know why Andre Sayegh likes to be around good looking young guys. Interesting!
15 concerned resident // Jul 10, 2009 at 11:34 am
What’s this crap about Andre moving some one to the 3rd ward does the man possess that type of money and power just to run someone against mccoy? And also let’s stop with the idiotic suggestions about him being around handsome men because if that were true then am i to guess that would exclude you. But with that that said i don’t like the fact that he (mccoy )doesn’t allow tavarez to speak, i don’t mind him silencing rigo who 95% of the time doesn’t make sense anyway.
16 concerned resident // Jul 10, 2009 at 11:35 am
WE’RE WAITING FOR THOSE AFRICAN AMERICAN PARADE PHOTOS PEOPLE
17 Councilman, Kenneth Morris // Jul 10, 2009 at 4:12 pm
When I read the article by Meredith Mandell published in the July 2nd edition of the Herald News, “Council fails to elect leader” which insinuated that ethnicity played a significant role in the Municipal Council not reaching a consensus as to whom should be chosen as this year’s Council President, I was both angered and disappointed.
Let me emphatically state for the record that race is never a factor in the selection of the President of the Municipal Council of the city of Paterson. When we allow reporters or those who don’t get their way to use race as a convenient excuse when an outcome is different then they would like we do ourselves a tremendous disservice. The facts are and will remain that the man or woman we choose to lead us in the coming year must possess certain qualities and skills in order to be a successful leader. As a Councilman who served three consecutive terms as Council President in my opinion that individual must be skilled in the following:
• The ability to fully articulate the position of the Municipal Council to all stakeholders both locally, and statewide. This would require that the President possess excellent oratorical and writing skills, along with the ability to interact effectively with state and county legislators and decision makers.
• The ability to work cooperatively with the Administration in order to foster economic growth, and improve the quality of life of all who live and work in Paterson. This would require that the individual have a willingness to support the Administration on those issues that have the greatest potential for success and challenge the Administration on those issues that are simply politically motivated and have no potential for succeeding and are not in the best interest of the citizens and tax payers.
• The ability to manage effectively, utilizing decorum and diplomacy the men and women who have demonstrated by being elected that they have the support and confidence of the electorate who put them into office. This requires that as President you recognize that each member of the Council is entitled to contribute equally to the management of the city. That no one’s opinion has more value than the other. That the success or failure of the city is every Council member’s responsibility.
• The ability to interact effectively and work cooperatively with each city Department Head along with their staff. This requires the Council President to respect the experience and knowledge that staff brings to the table, and actively seek out their contributions.
• The individual chosen as Council President must have the respect of his/her colleagues. This individual should have shown through past interactions that he or she could be trusted; they must exemplify honesty and character. Their colleagues must feel that he/she will have their support in both the good and bad times during their term in office.
• Finally, the Council President must have the respect of the public. The public must feel confident that the individual will represent the interest of the residents of the entire city, not just one sub-group. The Council President is not the President of a particular Ward, community or ethnic group. He or she is Paterson’s President, and must have demonstrated in the past that he/she has represented all citizens of this great city equally and fairly.
None of the aforementioned qualities take into account a Council member’s ethnicity, religion or race. When I decide whom I will support for Council President, it is the above criteria I depend on when making that decision. I only ask that you, the public, consider doing the same.
Kenneth M. Morris, Jr., MHA, MA
Councilman-At-Large, Paterson
18 Anonymous // Jul 10, 2009 at 6:59 pm
Este Concejal Morris, porque no baja estos taxes que estan tan altos. Estamos perdiendo nuestras csas, pagandole taxes a esta ciudad pa que este consejalito este escribiendo cartitas de cosas insignificantes. Escribir cartas si en facil! que bajes los taxes y que deje de hablar tanta baba y plepla! E’ Pa’ Fuera Que Va!
19 Councilman, Kenneth Morris // Jul 10, 2009 at 8:40 pm
My only response is wow! I had no idea some people are so misinformed.
20 Anonimo // Jul 10, 2009 at 9:20 pm
baba y plepla?????Cartitas????insignificantes????? tan insignificantes que usted tomo de su valioso tiempo para leerla y comentar. Positivo o Negativo usted comento!!!!Antes de decir que el no ha hecho nada para la cuidad y los residentes de Paterson tome un poco de su valioso tiempo, como lo hizo para escribir su comentarios, para ser mas astuto(a) en las iniciativas de este Concejal ..unas de ella fue la legislatura que escribio y paso para la seguridad de los residentes de esta cuidad. Tome cuentas de una de ellas—esta es para la personas que viene de otra cuidada y violan la ley al comprar dogras o solicitar prostitucion, cuando la policia le quita su carro y se le pone una fiancia, ese dinero se usa para los programa de recreacion para los niños y la juventud de Paterson, otra cosa que hizo este concejal fue el seminario que tuvo en el collegio (tuvo mas 1200 participantes) para que los residentes puedan recibir ayuda con applicaciones para apelar la injusticia de la re-evaluacion de su casas y los impuestos que tendrian que pagar (esto se hizo en varios idomas)…. El Herald News lo reporto. Siga buscando que encontrara mas… O sera que usted prefiere una persona (Rigo) que no se le entiende nada de lo que dice y no ha hecho nada en su tres años para el bienestar de TODA RAZA. E’Pa”Fuera Que Va! Habla usted del Concejal Morris o mas bien del Concejal Rodriguez. Lea los commentaries para que se de mas cuenta antes de senalar un dedo.
21 Anonymous // Jul 10, 2009 at 10:34 pm
finally some one said it in 3 years (rigo) he has not Done any thing that will help the public
22 Anonymous // Jul 11, 2009 at 6:53 pm
ha- this is great most action I’ve seen on this site! It’s nice to read/hear others opinions even in spanish.
23 Anonymous // Jul 11, 2009 at 7:16 pm
E’ Pa’ Fuera Que VAN
24 concerned resident // Jul 12, 2009 at 7:49 am
First and fore most let me state that I am still waiting for those AFRICAN AMERICAN PARADE PHOTOS, so one might say that it is all about race and not equality. Second Rigo nor Alson has any business even thinking about the presidency let alone having it .Once Rigo can probably not govern over his own home let alone the entire council, and we all know about Alson’s arrogancy, ego, dogmatic style, dictator ways,lack of diplomacy ways,can’t get along with people, border line racist (remember the young lady who came to the city council meeting along with her sister) always in the newspaper for one negative thing or another can’t cease from arguing with the business administator. listen my arm is getting exhausted so I’ll see you in 2012 Goow when i beat the stank out of your breath in the next election, it won’t be hard thanks for making it easier than taking candy from a baby.
25 Anonymous // Jul 13, 2009 at 9:58 am
.
26 Anonymous // Jul 13, 2009 at 11:26 am
Councilman Morris is right in pretty much all of the criteria he and the rest of the councilmen should use to elect a President. Councilman Morris wrote “The public must feel confident that the individual will represent the interest of the residents of the entire city, not just one sub-group.” I would like the councilman to explain how Councilman MacKoy and he were putting the interest of public before the interest of the Mayor and themselves when they voted to have the taxpayers of the city of Paterson cover the monies the Mayor had to pay because to the lawsuit against. Basically they wanted us as taxpayers to take a bullet for the Mayor of Paterson. I’ll wait for an answer, because you look like a very respectful person, but sometimes your actions lead us to believe otherwise.
27 Anonymous // Jul 13, 2009 at 3:10 pm
We need someone independent, not a yes-man for the mayor. Where was Morris when our TAXES went thru the roof? where was Morris when the police doesnt show up? where was Morris when they cut the Summer program? where was Morris where the council voted to pay for the mayor’s lawsuit? Being a respecftul person ONLY to the MAYOR is not enough for me to vote for him again. RESPECT THE TAXPAYERS AND DO ANOTHER REVALUATION.
28 Anonymous // Jul 14, 2009 at 1:10 pm
If Ken Morris insists is not above race, why he always votes for Councilman McKoy for President of the City Council who is black and not for Rigo Rodriguez who happens to be latino. McKoy has been President 3 times. He needs to man up and face the music.
29 papa q // Jul 14, 2009 at 8:46 pm
Their all retards anyway! One is a racist, One can’t speak english and the other one is an insecure idiot. This is the best that this town has to offer? This is more like a cast of characters on some crappy sitcom on channel 11. And to “concerned resident”, if you wanted pictures from the african american parade, you should have bought yourself a camera and taken them yourself!
30 SAM.I.AM. // Jul 16, 2009 at 12:41 pm
it doesn’t matter who the council president is. it will be the the same old nonesense
we come to know as the Paterson City Council meeting. different concil members.
same results.
31 Anonymous // Jul 16, 2009 at 7:15 pm
Papa Q, Elsa Mantilla cant speak english either and here our “wonderful” mayor elected her……from what I hear she wants to run for mayor………..that would be utterly ridiculous. She hasnt done anything for Paterson nor will she ever. We all know she wrote the portion of “stupid Ranchetero”…..it would make more sense to be a stupid Ranchetero than a slut from Higuey
32 Anonymous // Jul 16, 2009 at 7:30 pm
Here we go again…it’s so sad what people write…
33 Anonymous // Jul 16, 2009 at 8:29 pm
Can Paterson Online, provide a chat room?
34 Anonymous // Jul 17, 2009 at 11:26 am
What why do u call her a slut?
She look like a nice person
R u from ranchente (if u don’t know her don’t call her a slut)
35 TheOneandOnly // Jul 17, 2009 at 1:31 pm
WOW! people have some moderation, even for a person like the lady. Paterson has so many of those running around pretending to be LADIES and GOOD PERSONS but you don’t see me mentioning names. It is enough that they have to live with themselves, if you know what I meant. Now going back to the councils- I heard that we have a president- is this true?
36 Anonymous // Jul 17, 2009 at 1:55 pm
To anonymous # 7
Do you have anything against the people from ranchete? Did anyone of them slept with your wife/husband? Did anyone of them took money from you? Did they lie to you? Did they promise you something? What’s wrong? I have an idea, why don’t you go and get an education and a job like most ranchetero has done and then talk to them face to face. “ESTIPIDO” I have never seen this word before. Is this Latin because I think I understand Latin and this word doesn’t look like Latin. “bardus”, “stultus”. You know what else I noticed about people from ranchete, they love Paterson more than other so-called Dominicans.
37 concerned resident // Jul 17, 2009 at 1:58 pm
Yes Sir,it’s true in the person of The Honor able Jeffery Jones. OHHHHHHHhhh and by the way the African American citizens of this city is still waiting on the pictures from our parade.
38 Anonymous // Jul 17, 2009 at 3:18 pm
Concerned Resident
Congrats! I’m,too, wondering what happened to the pictures. i tell you, the site new adminstrator is busy doing “Good Deeds” arround paterson. So let it be and go open your own site and post your AfricanAmerican picture since you might not see them here. ofcourse i’m just being nice to you. I’ve been to this website since it opened and I totally agree with many people that said that this site isn’t like before. New administrator, new priorities in which you are not, one of them.
39 Anonymous // Jul 18, 2009 at 9:58 am
Congrats….. to our new Presidente del Concejal, Jeff Jones. Mayor Candidate. Now he has the floor to go on for another hour or two (no one stopping him)and get nothing done for ALL the people. He likes the sound of his voice. Tom Watterson was on point. Oh yes, now I get it, the councilmen who supported our new Presidente del Concejal were doing those who have insomnia a favor, a sure sleeping remedy or maybe not—a continuous nightmare. All these male egos…. come on….what a joke. Take a lesson from the residents of Newark when they elected Corey Booker. Council President Jones (only in his head) and Mayor Torres will never come to that caliber.
40 Anonymous // Jul 18, 2009 at 2:55 pm
To all concerned people here about the African American pictures. Why dont you tell your people to stop voting only for black people. For exampe when the african american parade does any event, they ONLY invite black people. They only endorse black candidates, they only support blacks. Why are you attacking this site, when this site is for ALL people in Paterson. Stop attacking tis site, because you are only for blacks.
41 Anonymous // Jul 18, 2009 at 2:59 pm
I’m African American. I dont want to see parade pictures. I want to see pictures of how destroyed and abonded our neighborhoods are. Why arent our elected black councilmen and councilwoman doing something about it. It is our fault that they arent. We keep voting for black people who only care about their EGO and they personal and family power. STOP VOTING FOR PEOPLE BECAUSE OF THEIR RACE. I’m black, but I’m not voting for blacks anymore.
42 Anonymous // Jul 18, 2009 at 3:01 pm
Rancheteros are wonderful and hardworking people. They dont line up for welfare, like other groups. They work!
43 Anonymous // Jul 18, 2009 at 10:15 pm
what do they loved about Paterson ( drugs cause that the only thing we have now)
oh u sure that none of ranchetero take walfare haha (that was to funny).
44 Anonymous // Jul 18, 2009 at 10:18 pm
don’t get mad because RIgo is not going to win.
When he can speak English and write it . Maybe then people will vote for him
45 Anonymous // Jul 19, 2009 at 10:50 am
Who are the people running for council at large next year?
46 Anonymous // Jul 20, 2009 at 12:10 pm
This is why Paterson always back tracks they have ignorant people “running things” in this town. It shouldnt be based out of where u come from, the color of ur skin, or if you have an accent or not. We need to worry about our corrupt politicians like Andre Sayegh and Joey Torres…..Andre is the 1st one trying to shut this website down because his infamous friend Eldsa Mantilla was being attacked about stealing the Dominican Parade money and then we have Joey Torres getting a raise that only CEO’s would get and also having the nerves to ugrade to a brand new Suburban with Paterson’s money…..is this ridiculous or what. Why does the mayor need a new truck when he shouldnt be traveling with his wife and kids,…..he should be driving a hybrid
47 Anonymous // Jul 20, 2009 at 3:45 pm
I must say I’m soooo shocked at what has been written on this website, I had no clue this was so entertaining!!! As far as I’m concerned all of this madness concerning Councel President is such a joke. . . Such a big bark and not enough bite! They need to get it together ASAP because the only people suffering the consequences of ignorance and bad judgement are “WE” the citizens of Paterson…
48 Anonymous // Jul 20, 2009 at 10:04 pm
One thing- REPUGNANCE!
49 Anonymous // Jul 23, 2009 at 7:12 am
the fact that rigo left the meeting shows how he deals wit problems…not good
50 Anonymous // Jul 23, 2009 at 1:50 pm
We have too much corruption in Paterson. Some of our council persons think they are above the law. No one is above the law in America!
51 Anonymous // Jul 23, 2009 at 5:24 pm
I must say, I was very surprised that some of our Paterson politicians were not on the Federal buses this morning…..? I was atleast expecting our Deputy Mayor Mantilla….followed by Joey then Andre…..and the list goes on. Elsa maybe now you should have your accountant come up with some numbers….hahaha. They are watching soooo bee ready. I know that alot of Alka Seltzer was consumed today. But I am sure it wont end today…..the probing shall continue…….BE CAREFULLLLL!
52 Anonymous // Jul 23, 2009 at 6:04 pm
When is the FBI going to catch this corrupted council persons who are committing all kinds of abuse of power. It’s so obvious. Just look at where all the problems in Paterson take place. Look at who turns a blind eye. FBI needs to stop being afraid of Paterson corrupted politicians.
53 Anonymous // Jul 23, 2009 at 6:07 pm
I hope they spend the rest of their lives in prison. And, I hpe we get some FBI attention because this councilmen/woman think they are above the law. They dont do their job, but collect a check from us. They even complain when we go to speak at the council meeting, so we dont know all the dirty work they do. FBI please open up an office in Paterson before this town becomes ghost town due to the corruption everybody wants out of here
54 Anonymous // Jul 23, 2009 at 10:43 pm
I was thinking about the same thing when I saw/heard the news. People in Paterson should be careful and I am not talking about the councilmen/woman. But up in the ladder.
55 Anonymous // Jul 24, 2009 at 2:48 pm
anonymous 43 and 46:
Only two words applies to you: IGNORANCE AND EGOIST.
56 Anonymous // Jul 24, 2009 at 2:56 pm
Important announcement:
To Paterson residents: Beware: CARAS VEMOS CORAZONES NO SABEMOS. OR NO TODO LO QUE BRILLA ES ORO.
57 Anonymous // Jul 28, 2009 at 11:28 pm
I would like to comment to all who posted negative things about Councilman Rodriguez: Please be advised that Councilman Rodriguez is an HOnest and very sincere Person. Atleast he has tried to do something for the city is not like he’s in it to get extra Income or because he needs it!!! For those who do not know he has a REALLY good business that brings ALOT of Income which he does not need from the city. But yet he decides to run for office because he wants better for his community…and the HATERS that are posting ONLY negative things about him, is critizing him. Its a shame how ignorant people can be to even post this about you Councilman!! Keep your head up!! Atleast you are trying and believe me you’ve gotten better!! Don’t listen to all this nonsense that’s are being said from haters….this can only make you stronger!!!!
58 Anonymous // Jul 29, 2009 at 9:01 pm
I would like for all elected officialts to disclose ther income tax returns. That way, we will know where are their fortunes really coming from?
We need the FBI in Paterson to arrest the people who are milking the system here.
59 Yeah, Yes, Si // Jul 29, 2009 at 11:41 pm
Want don’t you start by disclosing yours.
60 Anonymous // Jul 30, 2009 at 7:00 pm
That’s right, these Paterson elected officials need to disclose their income tax returns, that way we make sure they are not doing nothing fishy out there. When is the FBI going to open up a branch in Paterson. Holy Lord! We need them here!
61 concerned resident // Jul 31, 2009 at 12:26 pm
to #’s 41,&40 I’m deeply shocked at your display of blatant display of ignorance, to say that you are black and you don’t vote for black people is definitely nothing but stupidity you must make your family and friends very proud of you. And as far as us only being for black people that is an all out lie, I’m for what’s right and to not show the African American pictures isn’t right. When I know that this site was there, so before you hide behind a blind blog site please get your facts straight. I was out in the community fighting for all people long before you knew how to spell fight let alone actually speak up for a cause.
62 the minster // Jul 31, 2009 at 2:13 pm
I agree with writer #61 you should be ashamed to have the audacity to come on this site and say that you’re black but you won’t vote black again, I sincerely hope that you are a female because that is definitely something only a woman would allow to come out of her mouth. It’s no wonder that this great city is going to the dogs, I’m willing to bet that you probably don’t even vote. This is the reason why we strong minded people that know what side of our toast has butter on it must recognize and speak out against absolute stupidity. Can this person really wake up in the morning and with a clear mind go on with your daily agenda after seeing your face, I hope not.
63 Anonymous // Aug 1, 2009 at 12:48 pm
Mr. minster: Can black people vote for someone who is not black if he or she is not doing a good job (Look at the 1st Ward, 4th Ward and yes the 3rd Ward). Also, can Dominicans vote Rigo out since he’s not doing a good job. Its win win situation.
64 the minster // Aug 1, 2009 at 1:41 pm
To # 63 yes we all certainly as american citizens have that right, if an individual isn’t doing a decent to good job. But for some one to say they don’t for someone just because of race is puuure ignorance. And let’s before we begin to point our fingers in the direction of politicians look at our selves first and ask what are we doing to make our communities better.
The Minister has spoken
ps. stay tuned
65 jayson353 // Aug 3, 2009 at 11:36 pm
Most of the people posting these ridiculous comments are simple. Paterson, Paterson… What a beautiful city… allowed to wallow in such a state of degradation! Why? Our elected officials are incompetent and ineffective in improving our quality of life. Why? No accountability!!! An ignorant public!!! Yes it begins with improving and enforcing quality of life issues. Enforce the current laws against loitering, maybe raise the fine to a level that makes people not want to receive another ticket. It would also bring revenue to the city. Too many people are allowed to hang around on our street corners with no objectivity. Why is this nonsense allowed. Well my friends it is because many of our landlords do not care enough to make it an issue and our elected officials have not given the directive to the police department to enforce the laws. Yes, many tickets will be written and maybe some arrests will be made… but as word gets around people will begin over time to realize and accept that it is not ok to just hang out on the street corners and make noise at all hours of the night. As a result, crime will reduce and property values will rise. Paterson homes have ample backyards that can be used to hang out. Again anyone that feels that it is ok to just “chill on the corner and kick it with your people” obviously does not care about the honest hardworking citizens in the community and does not have a 9 to 5 job. Hire meter maids to ticket anyone that allows their properties to look like dumps by allowing their sidewalks to be strewn with litter… give property owners till nine o’clock every morning to clean up or be ticketed a decent amount. Create a law allowing the city to take over any boarded up properties that have not been rehabilitated.. give the landlord six months to provide plans to the city or lose the property. Stop the nonsense that goes on in the council meetings and begin to work together to ameliorate the problems affecting our city. Create a plan for our future and have the will to follow through and accept responsibility for our successes as well as our failures and remember that it is our responsibility to improve our city. I have personally seen what can occur when quality of life issues are made the forefront of a community’s efforts to clean up… and it is amazing!!! It can be done… start by enforcing the quality of life laws that are on the books now and do not stop until the streets are cleaned up and neighborhoods become family oriented and safe. Yes… many people will be upset with all the tickets and fines that they’ll be given… but those are the people that we don’t want in our community. They can move elsewhere if they are unhappy.
66 Anonymous // Aug 4, 2009 at 11:27 am
Great comment Jayson. But the problem we have is councilman jones, goww, rodriguez and sayegh are all too busy worrying about trying to become mayor. No one is actually doing their job. Vera Ames stop caring long time ago. Davis in the 1st, no comments. And Julio is always fighting with the current mayor. Mckoy is absent from the 3rd Ward. You cant get anything done unless you work with people that often disagree with you. I say let’s vote them all out!
67 Pastor // Aug 4, 2009 at 4:21 pm
Councilman Davis and Councilwoman Ames don’t do anything for the community. The 1st and the 4th ward need a new leader since these two individuals are doing a horrible job. They need to go. I will even go as far as supporting a Dominican in both wards to run this two do nothing council person out of there.
Remember, FBI is watching you!
68 Ward 2 Resident/Latin Girl // Aug 7, 2009 at 12:25 pm
I have lost lot of faith on our Politicians…they have promise us better Education for our kids, lower taxes. etc. I’m just disgusted with Paterson….we just keep hiring out of town teacher that do not care about our kids…they do not invest their money in our town, that we are trying to work so very hard to keep clean & open new bussiness. Most of our home owners are loosing their homes, We need honest Politician that are willing to REALLY help us & work with us. I’m not asking for a miracle. If it comes out of your mouth that your are going to do something…please do it…that’s it..God bless Everyone.. n race should NEVER be an issue…
69 Ward 2 Resident/Latin Girl // Aug 7, 2009 at 1:09 pm
Well i agree with a lot of what my patersonians have to say…but on the other hand..Don’t talk bad about other cultures, races or religions. That what makes USA a better place that we are all different but want the best for our families!!! Some of the comments are hurtfull & simply on call for. That’s one of the reason that i do not move from paterson because, my kids go to school & eat lunch from kids around the world, I think that is a great experience for my children to play baseball with kids from all over..and not see color or religion…;0)
70 Bunch of fools // Aug 8, 2009 at 11:24 am
To Jayson353:
I can tell by reading your post that you have no idea what you are talking about and more than likely are not involve in any type of community improvement activities. You have no idea how government works and thus it is that makes you think the way you do. For instance, did you know loitering laws are illegal: http://www.libertarianrock.com/topics/curfew/chicago_loitering.html
This site is truly for fools that do nothing for the community but love to hide behind a computer to complaint about the work others do.
71 ab121 // Aug 9, 2009 at 8:50 pm
Everybody on here needs to stop complaining. The politicians in Paterson are no different than politicians elsewhere in the world. We sit here and complain about them, as if they are the cause of all of our problems. Yes, some of them are terrible, BUT it’s the RESIDENTS of our city who need to CHANGE there ways! The politicans cannot replace every child’s mother or father. The problem in our inner cities, such as Paterson is that people REALLY DONT CARE. Kids are having kids, and raising them in a place where they are not taught right from wrong, and they learn from role models that just got out of prision. As far as loitering….there is no such law in the State of New Jersey; however, where are the parents when you have 10,11,12,13,14 year olds hanging out on Straight/Broadway, Rosa Parks/Godwin, Temple/N.7th, Jefferson/N.Main? Where are they? When kids can do whatever they please, when they want to, they will grow up without a sense of authority. A philosopher named Immanuel Kant observed, “If a man be allowed to follow his own will in his youth, without opposition, a certain lawlessness will cling to him throughout his life”. This is exactly what’s going on in Paterson. Kids having kids, no role models, poor living/housing conditions, government dependence, and absolutley no desire to make the city better.
72 Anonymous // Aug 10, 2009 at 9:18 pm
ab121, why dont you start by voting Vera and Davis out of the city council. They dont do #$% for the community.
73 Latanya Cooper // Aug 11, 2009 at 1:01 pm
Patersonians: This is not what our forthfathers fought or,and this is certainly not what Dr. King stood up for. We can not discriminate or choose our elected officials based on their race because divisions will get worse and worse, If we say choose only a black politician, then there will be the inner fight: why not a Jamaican? a Haitian? etc. same goes if a Latino is chosen, then there’ll be the fight: why a Puerto Rican? why a Dominican? etc..
So let’s choose our politicians carefully: based on their deeds and deiciation to the entire city of Paterson.
There are very important elections coming up in May, that of Mayor and council.
MAYOR RACE 2010
Honestly both Mr. Torres And Mr. jones have great qualities and each one wants to take the city in a different direction, so choose which direction you feel is better and elect your candidate.
COUNCIL RACE
I must start by saying how obvious it is that Santana himself writes comments praising himself! please the only reason hes doing taht scholarship fund is to make a name for himself, what a joke ! second highest vote getter??? lol! out of three isn’t much!! no way I would ever vote for him!
I honestly feel that we need a good mix of both senior council members and fresh young faces.
We nedd tjhose who have lived all their live sin Paterson and have chosen to stay and improve the city ! I would like to see someone elected who doesn’t belong to a “political team”. I have my eye open on a few candidates..
As for our African American parade: kudos to mayor Torres for having a float form the city of Paterson participate, I also saw participation from the Jones for mayor team, and Davila for council team. but what happened to the rest of the council aspirants? or is our African American Parade not important enough for your participation?
Everyone is watching…
74 Jayson353 // Aug 11, 2009 at 2:05 pm
“Bunch of Fools,” love your computer handle. How fitting. At least we know your affiliation! As far I’m concerned, I probably do more for the community than your above average citizen. Yes, “fool” probably more than you. I’m simply sharing ideas like everyone else, glad you can read… Interesting how your so concerned with people’s right to hang around on the street corners at all hours and do exactly What?????? Demonstrate against Violence? Fight the Power? Demonstrate for Lower Taxes? I think not!!!!! I’m just concerned that we live in a town that has become accustomed to blaring music at all hours, fights, drunks, drugs, and blighted neighborhoods. Where do you stand? I’m sharing my ideas on the comments section of this article. Who’s hiding? I read your link…. Wow. So we should all just go away and not care about the fools(probably your boys) hanging on our corners. I guess your also for hiring private companies to police our neighborhoods. Great just what we need in Paterson!!! I suppose according to your article link we all would just take money from our pockets to pay for this extra service. We already have a police department. Like I said before, I have seen what the enforcement of “quality of life” laws can do in other communities. I guess “Bunch of fools” loves this site. Glad that my bit of writing got you excited enough to share your views. I don’t care for people like you who make excuses. I simply see an impotent police department and an unwilling city council. I’ve watched a few council meetings and honestly laughed!!! They should create a reality show. Seriously….. These people can not work together. How can they in turn provide guidance and vision for our city?
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