In Passaic, Schaer holds off on making endorsement for mayor

Acting Mayor/Assemblyman Gary Schaer: Politicker file photo 

He’s the man everyone’s watching, in part because his ties are deep and solid with the powerful Orthodox Jewish vote in Passaic, but at least for now, Assemblyman/Acting Mayor Gary Schaer (D-Passaic) said he is not prepared to make an endorsement in the race for mayor.

Sources say Schaer is close to School Board President Alex Blanco, a physician, who in addition to his own Dominican base has good ties to the Democratic Party and to other long-established families in Passaic.

But the acting mayor insisted he’s not ready to commit jut yet.

"I’ve seen a lot of posters and bumper stickers, but I have not heard any plans," said Schaer. "What are their plans? What is their vision to put Passaic on the right track? I’m not hearing that from the candidates, and I need to hear that.

"I need to hear how the winning candidate will put a freeze on tax increases and how we’re going to make City Hall more responsive to the people, and how we’re going to encourage businesses to come to Passaic so jobs are created," Schaer added. "How we’re going to invigorate the services we provide to our residents?"

On May 9, Schaer took the job of acting mayor when Sammy Rivera pleaded guilty in federal court to extortion. Schaer said he is proud in his short term of service as chief executive to have steered the passage of seven ethics reform ordinances.

"There is, of course, a lot more to do and Passaic is at a critical period," he said.

Of his own decision not to run for mayor, the assemblyman admitted it was hard.

"I love Passaic, it’s a wonderful town with tremendous opportunity," said Schaer. "But I have loved the past years of representing all of District 36, and that is something I want to continue."