great way to do that.”
For members of Local 1 and beyond
who have the chance to spread the word,
Cruz has platformed his campaign on the
following priorities:
• Stand up to protect all of Paterson,
particularly women and children,
from the violence that has consumed
the city for too long.
• Implement a comprehensive public
safety strategy that will expand treat-
ment for nonviolent drug users and
have zero tolerance for gun and gang
violence.
• Fight to improve every single school
so that students get a real shot at a
quality education and the fair shot to
compete in the future.
• Expand on after-school and recre-
ational programs.
• Make city government effective and
efficient so that residents get the ser-
vices they deserve.
• Establish an Office of the Inspector
General that promotes accountabili-
ty, efficiency and integrity in city gov-
ernment.
The bold approach of an Office of the
Inspector General to eliminate waste,
fraud and abuse at every level of local gov-
ernment is taking a page out of the federal
government playbook. Cruz believes that
an independent oversight body to ensure
an adequate system of checks and balanc-
es is in place will guard against corruption
and mismanagement and will bring the
best of law enforcement and union lead-
ership to local government.
“Those running have been in city gov-
ernment for the better part of a decade.
The problems that existed since they took
office are the same ones confronting us
today, and they own that issue,” he ex-
plains. “I think the fact that I’m a politi-
cal outsider carries a lot of weight with
people. I view myself as a change agent.
I have some very strong ideas about how
to make Paterson a destination of distinc-
tion, a place where people want to be. Ty-
ing economic growth and development to
the police department is key. If people feel
safe, they will come.”
To answer his calling, Cruz in put-
ting out a call for help to PBA sisters and
brothers. Following the plan that has been
used to get PBA-supported candidates
elected the past few years, Cruz requests
that members from Locals throughout
the state put their boots on the ground in
Paterson, spread the word of how he can
make change and help voters get to the
polls.
“It’s important that make sure we knock
on every door, go to every religious service
and attend every community function. I
don’t want to leave a stone unturned or
any vote behind,” Cruz implores. “Every-
body at the PBA has been so supportive
of my run for mayor, and I gain courage
and strength knowing they always have
my six.” d
www.njcopsmagazine.com
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