This past Sunday night at the Bergenfield home of Rabbi Steven and Rachel Burg, the Jewish community had an opportunity to meet with Democratic candidate for Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco. To an audience that included Rabbi Benjamin Kelsen, Councilwoman Ora Kornbluth and Shimmy Stein, Mr. Tedesco discussed his background as mayor of Paramus and as a county freeholder. A retired manager from PSE&G, with 35-plus years in the utility industry holding various positions, Mr. Tedesco raised his family in Paramus and has a long history in public service, having also served as a Paramus Firefighter for 37 years. Long term Teaneck resident and Congregation Beth Abraham member Sam Levy, also a member of the Paramus Fire Department, spoke of his longtime friendship with Mr. Tedesco and of the latter’s great integrity and enthusiasm for public service.

Rabbi Steven Burg spoke of Mr. Tedesco’s assistance to the yeshiva day schools in Paramus. Mr. Tedesco reiterated his commitment to lowering taxes within the county and improving services as well as efficiency. When asked to differentiate himself from his opponent, Mr. Tedesco cited his ability to reach across party lines and form consensus on practical methods to efficient government.