The Alternative Press

I think it does a major disservice to the community each time any elected official gets so bogged down with politics that they begin to forget about people. If you walk the streets of Paterson as I do - you will hear the lamentations of the public. There are so many disheartened folks in our neighborhoods today. People who have lived in Paterson all of their lives, but are now too scared to sit in front of their own property. We have scores of the homeless, who are trying to survive but can't seem to find the help they need to make survival possible. We have our young people, getting gunned down in the streets like animals because of senseless violence.

 

We have teachers who are reluctant to enter school settings for fear they might come under verbal attack by their students. Likewise, we have students who are afraid to go to school for the same reasons. If it appears that the masses have become sort of cold or callous, its probably because they witness their leaders behave in like manner. The constant in-fighting, bickering and trying to prove something must end today. If we cannot operate as ONE CITY united with ONE CAUSE and ONE AIM then collectively we will forever be locked in a virtual prison unable to connect with the rest of the world.

 

Where has all of the love gone? Why has respect retreated? As elected officials we must get back to the basics of working for the betterment of the people instead of working for our own selfish gains or ulterior motives. And popularity? What about it? I don't believe any elected official was put in office to be a popularity magnet. I believe that every elected official was put in place with the premise that they would effect change in their community. I do believe that some elections were not properly thought out. Nevertheless, the overall attitude towards the elections process is to vote for someone who cares for the community.

 

We are public servants. Our primary objective must be public service, which can only activated through humility and often times, personal sacrifice. On the day we took the oath of office, we affirmed that we would do all we could to fulfill the duties of the offices we hold. The time to prove our words is not when the cameras are flashing and reporters are standing over us with pens and recorders. The time to prove our commitment to our community is when the stage-lights have dimmed and the crowds have receded. We can't always expect a pat on the back, the satisfaction of knowing we have made a difference or at least a positive impact in someone's life should be rewarding enough.

 

All The Best

 

Mr. Corey L. Teague

Member, Paterson BOE