March 06, 2012
In the Spotlight
Jerry Fried, Mayor of Montclair ()
By AMANDA ANTONUCCI
Name: Jerry Fried
Position: Mayor of Montclair
How many years of experience? Jerry Fried was elected mayor in July of 2008.He cites that "surviving the ongoing economic crisis" as one of the difficulties of his position thus far. "[We] have been trying to deliver services at cost effectively as possible, considering the spending constraints," said Mayor Fried. "We have to take a critical look at every department to see if we could downsize." Regarding Montclair's progress thus far, he is positive. "I believe the operations of the townhip are pretty lean and mean."
Occupation: Mayor Fried currently has no other occupations; however, before becoming mayor, he worked in advertising for 27 years. His advertising expertise consists of post-production work for television commercials. He decided to resign from advertisement, so he could devote all his energy into public service.
Age: 54
Family: Mayor Fried has been married for 29 years and has three children. Mayor Fried glows with pride over the accomplishments of each of his boys. Fried's oldest son is currently in Uganda with the Peace Corp.
What are some of your professional/personal accomplishments? Mayor Fried is particularly proud of the progression Montclair has made in education since his election to mayorship. "Currently, the citizen community advises the mayor in electing the Board of Education," explained Fried. He believes that the careful analysis of the Board of Education candidates on part of Montclair citizens, mayor and council alike have made for an outstanding staff. "We must understand that education is the most important facet of assuring the progression of society."
What issues are of importance to you for your state/locally/nationally? Mayor Friend believes that education should be better supported at the federal level. "The fuding of public education depends solely on property tax rates," asserted Fried. "Therefore, it becomes extremely difficult to maintain our schools. Extracurricular programs and special education suffer because of it. The board of education needs funding and support."
Additionally, the federal government should be taxed more heavily, according to Fried, and affordable housing more supported. Further, America needs to be disentangled from the trappings of unproductive foreign wars.
Quote: "I have dealt with enough adversity to toughen me up for this position. I have learned how to clearly articulate my position despite opposition."
