“Together for Bergen 37.”
(Courtesy of Together for Bergen 37) Community leaders Emil “Yitz” Stern and Rosemary Hernandez Carroll have officially announced their joint candidacy for the New Jersey General Assembly in District 37 under the banner “Together for Bergen 37.” Their combined experience in public service, business and community advocacy will drive a shared platform focused on affordability, strong schools, safer neighborhoods and support for small businesses across Bergen County.
A Blend of Experience and Fresh Perspective
Stern, a Teaneck resident and former deputy mayor, served three terms on the Teaneck township council before initially retiring from elected public service but felt compelled to return upon witnessing growing challenges in housing affordability and school funding. Known for his collaborative leadership, he currently oversees all fiscal operations in the Bergen County department of public safety. He is a co-founder and former board member of Cross River Bank, and also teaches business and economics at Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Carroll, a Hackensack resident, realtor and small-business owner, has been a vocal advocate for equitable housing, economic growth and community empowerment. As the daughter of Dominican immigrants, she understands the challenges faced by underrepresented communities. Carroll has managed multi-million-dollar projects and led various initiatives in project management and customer success across multiple industries, always guided by empathy and service. Her dedication to public service is rooted in the belief that no one should be left behind.
“We need leaders in Trenton who truly understand the daily challenges of Bergen County families—from the cost of living to housing affordability and robust schools,” said Stern. “Coming out of retirement was not a decision I took lightly, but I believe it’s necessary to help meet our community’s needs. There’s no better partner than Rosemary as we stand ‘Together for Bergen 37.’”
“As a realtor and community advocate, I see firsthand how families are impacted by rising housing costs and shrinking opportunities,” said Carroll. “Como hija de inmigrantes dominicanos, sé lo que significa luchar por oportunidades justas y viviendas asequibles. We’re running to ensure our district has strong, responsive leadership rooted in fairness and opportunity. By coming together, we can make Bergen County thrive for every resident.”
Endorsements From Community Leaders
Local leaders who have worked closely with Stern emphasize his collaborative spirit and track record of delivering results:
Elie Y. Katz, Former Teaneck Mayor
“I’ve seen Yitz solve tough challenges by listening to every perspective and finding consensus. He will be a proactive voice for Bergen County families in Trenton.”
Mark ‘Mendy’ Schwartz, Teaneck Mayor
“Yitz brings unmatched expertise in local governance, public safety and economic development. His leadership will help District 37 thrive for years to come.”
Paul Ostrow, Former Teaneck Mayor
“Yitz Stern’s decades of service to Teaneck and Bergen County demonstrate a true commitment to community. He has the experience, intelligence and vision we need in the State Assembly.”
Rabbi Daniel Fridman
“Yitz Stern is a dedicated public servant with decades of experience, endowed with a rare combination of profound humility, deep faith, unimpeachable integrity and
exceptional competence. At a time when the Jewish community faces unprecedented antisemitism, the relationship between New Jersey and Israel is under attack, and our state lags behind many others in providing financial support to families with children in private and parochial schools, Yitz Stern is exactly the representative we need in the State Assembly.”
Bergen County Jewish Action Committee (BCJAC)
“Yitz Stern is a seasoned public servant with years of experience in advocacy and government. He has been a pillar of the Jewish community, involved in many local causes and charities. We wholeheartedly support his candidacy and know he will represent our district honorably and with the integrity the office deserves.
Community leaders who have witnessed Carroll’s commitment firsthand highlight her empathy, practical problem-solving and passion for underrepresented voices:
Diana Vergara, Bogota Councilwoman
“Rosemary’s passion for empowering the underrepresented is clear in everything she does. Whether it’s supporting local businesses or fighting for affordable housing, she knows how to bring people together.”
Jorge Nunez, Former Bogota Council President
“Yitz and Rosemary combine local government experience with a fresh perspective to tackle the key issues facing residents of the 37th district in Bergen County.”
Frank Miranda, Bogota Board Of Education President
“Yitz Stern and Rosemary Hernandez Carroll have a strong history of advocating for their communities in the 37th district. Their expertise and dedication will drive progress and positive change for the district.”
Rachel Haber, Englewood School Board Member
“Rosemary’s real estate background and commitment to her community bring a fresh perspective to district 37. She genuinely cares about safe, affordable housing and stronger schools, and I’m confident she will be an effective advocate for families across Bergen County.”
Gerard L. Carroll,
Sr., Hackensack Councilman
“I’ve seen Rosemary’s devotion to our community firsthand. She listens to those who’ve been overlooked, and she always steps up to help. She’ll represent District 37 with integrity and a tireless work ethic.”
A Platform for Progress
Stern and Carroll have identified four key priorities for District 37:
Housing Affordability: Advocating for policies that help seniors, first-time homebuyers and working families stay in their communities.
Fair Funding for Schools: Ensuring every student has access to high-quality education by championing equitable resources and support.
Infrastructure & Public Safety: Modernizing roads, bridges and public transportation to create safer, more efficient travel for residents and businesses.
Small-Business Growth: Promoting initiatives that support local entrepreneurs, create jobs and boost Bergen County’s economic vitality.
“Our vision is simple: we believe Bergen County can be a place where everyone flourishes,” said Stern. “By standing ‘Together for Bergen 37,’ we aim to bring practical, people-first solutions to Trenton.”
For more information or to get involved, please contact
