West Paterson Democratic Organization

For Immediate Release:  Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Contact:  Democratic Municipal Chairman Michael Kazmark - 973-256-5857      

Councilwoman Ruth Patterson Announces Retirement from Borough Council

After 15-years, Patterson says, “It’s time to move on.”

“I’ve decided not to seek re-election in the fall.  We’ve worked hard as a group.  The Borough is on the right track and many of the projects that I wanted to see through have become a reality.  After 15 very heartfelt and gratifying years, it’s time to move on,” stated Patterson.

First elected in 1994, Patterson has served as Fire Commissioner, Senior Citizen Commissioner, and Chairwoman of the Public Safety, Finance and Ordinance Committees and was twice-selected as Council President.  Ruth Patterson has made her mark on the town.

Aside from her council duties, Ruth has been involved in various community projects and organizations. She was a member of Passaic County 20/20, a former member and Chairperson of the West Paterson Municipal Drug Alliance and Chairperson of the National Night Out. Ruth has also coordinated the 9-11 Remembrance Committee.  A former member of the West Paterson First Aid Squad and past president of the Board of Health, Ruth has worked to improve services for all residents. For her efforts, Councilwoman Patterson received a “Women in Government Award” twice, once in 1998 and again in 2001.

“Ruth Patterson simply cannot be replaced.  She is a fixture on the Council and her experience and candidness will be greatly missed next year,” commented Mayor Pat Lepore.

During her tenure, Patterson oversaw the installation of new sanitary sewer and water utility projects, road re-surfacing efforts, improved parks and recreation areas, proper budgeting and conservative spending and the funding of a new fire truck, set to be ordered early next year.

“Ruth’s passion for this town is second to none.  She cares about her community and I know that just because she will be leaving the dais, it does not mean there will be an end to her community service,” commented Council President Dominick DiDomenico.

“She is a not only a Councilwoman, she’s a friend to everyone in this community,” observed Councilwoman Tina Gatti, “She will be missed.”

“For me it is time to pass the torch, and allow someone else an opportunity to serve our Borough.  I will continue to work in the community to help improve the quality of life for my fellow residents.  It just won’t be in an elected capacity.  I’ll still be very active with the local and county Democratic Party.  And in just a few short months I’ll become a grandmother for the first time,” said Patterson.

“Ruth Patterson is a Democrat to the core.  You don’t find people like her too often anymore in politics.  She believes in the true values and philosophy of the Democratic Party.  She has done a great service to this community, and we owe her a debt of gratitude, as residents, and as Democrats,” concluded local Democratic Chairman Michael Kazmark.

The WP Democratic County Committee members will meet shortly to nominate a candidate for the June Primary Election to replace Patterson on the Democratic ticket.  DiDomenico and Gatti have both expressed their intent to seek re-election.

#          #             #