May 9, 2008 - 5:52pm
News

With Rivera out, Schaer takes the reins in Passaic

Passaic City Council President/Acting Mayor Gary S. Schaer released a statement today in the aftermath of Mayor Samuel Rivera's departure from office.

Rivera resigned at 5 p.m. after earlier in the day pleading guilty to extortion in federal court.

"This is a difficult time for Passaic," said Schaer. "I am committed, along with my city council colleagues, to restoring confidence to the residents of Passaic and assuring them that the services provided by our municipal government will continue as normal.

"The hard-working residents of Passaic deserve a municipal government that is honest and trustworthy," he added. "...While I did not seek this position, my role as Council President statutorily requires this service."

Schaer, who said he would receive no additional compensation or benefits as acting mayor, announced that he will be sworn-in during a "private ceremony" performed by the city clerk. He has scheduled a meeting of the city’s department directors for Monday morning.

"Together, we will move forward and continue to improve the quality of life for everyone who lives in our great city," Schaer said.

Max Pizarro is a PolitickerNJ.com Reporter and can be reached via email at max@politicsnj.com.

Related topics: Passaic, Gary Schaer, Samuel Rivera