www.njcopsmagazine.com
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FEBRUARY 2015
61
Charles Schwartz is all in
Assuming the position as the NJ State PBA Parliamentarian – a role that defines, enforces and oversees any questions relating to Robert’s Rules of
Order and the PBA bylaws – Saddle River Local 348
State Delegate Charles Schwartz is ready to bring
some small town ways and means to the state-level
stage.
“In my 17 years as a police officer I’ve served in
every capacity on my Local’s Executive Board, and
my goal has always been to preserve the rights of the
membership and to make sure everyone is treated
fairly,” Schwartz said. “I’ve worked in a small department and we’re able to solve everything diplomatically without any issues. It sounds almost too good to be true but
I haven’t had any issues that couldn’t be resolved through conversation with my administration. Even at the State level, I always
think having an open line of communication works best. All
members are equally important and everyone has a voice. You
have to listen to everybody and get their sides.”
Schwartz takes over for Wood-Ridge Local 313 State Delegate
Joseph Biamonte who is moving up to be part of the State PBA
Executive Board. Schwartz has had a long friendship
with Biamonte, who has left the incoming Parliamentarian with a few tips to keep things running
smoothly:
“Joe and I have been friends since high school,”
Schwartz clarified. “He said to make sure you always
do your homework and come in giving 100 percent.
You don’t want to get caught not knowing what
you’re doing; you always have to know what the facts
are.”
Schwartz, who also serves as Treasurer of the
Bergen County Conference, is gearing up for yet
another endeavor:
“I was chosen by Pat (Colligan) and (Executive Vice-President)
Marc (Kovar) to be on the new Political Action Committee’s steering
committee and to be a trustee for Bergen County,” Schwartz noted.
“We’re working on getting it started and coming out of the gate
strong. I’m behind Pat and Marc 100 percent and they made a great
decision starting this PAC that will put us in a great position moving
forward. Our PBA is on as strong a footing as we’ve ever been, and
I’m proud to be a part of it and help out in any way possible.” d