Trust in the new trustee
Charlie Schwartz is elected to PFRS Pension Board
The victory call came in to Charlie Schwartz’s phone
mid-morning on Aug. 14. For the Saddle River Local 348 State
Delegate/Bergen County Conference Chair/variety of other
roles in law enforcement, the call could have been from a num-
ber of people inquiring about a number of matters.
But when Schwartz heard it was Atlantic City Local 24 State
Delegate Keith Bennett on the other end of the line, he knew
that this was the call he had been waiting for. Bennett happily
congratulated Schwartz on securing his spot as the next PRFS
Trustee replacing Bennett, who is retiring on Nov. 1.
“I want to first off thank the members of the Bergen County
Conference for their quick action in casting votes to nominate
me,” Schwartz commented. “Also, thanks to all the county con-
ference chairs for being so supportive and having confidence in
me to give me their endorsements as quick as they did.”
During his 17 years in law enforcement, where he has held a
number of leadership roles within Local 348 including treasur-
er, vice president and president before becoming the State Del-
egate in in 2009, Schwartz has gained a firm understanding of
the needs of brothers and sisters. As PFRS Trustee, Schwartz is
eager to protect the pension and the rights of law enforcement
who he knows deserves the benefits of their service.
“I’m ready for that. I’m excited to get in there,” Schwartz
stressed. “I’m looking forward to working to ensure all law en-
forcement officers and PFRS members have their pensions
there for them when they need it. They can feel confident know-
ing that I’m in there.”
NJ State PBA President Pat Colligan noted that Schwartz will
be a vital asset to the PBA and the pension board when the PFRS
becomes an independent agency managing the pension fund
for all law enforcement officers and firefighters.
“It’s an exciting time since we are looking to take back our
pension,” Schwartz added. “I’m excited to be part of the pro-
cess.” d
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