Citing his friend’s tenacity, Benjie Wimberly, who represents Paterson as part of New Jersey’s 35^th legislative district, this morning formally announced his support for Sixth Ward Councilman Andre Sayegh to be Paterson’s next mayor.

A Paterson resident and former Paterson city councilman, Wimberly noted Sayegh’s commitment to the Paterson Public Schools and recreational programming as a strong factor in his decision to endorse.  Wimberly also noted Andre’s strong record of improving public safety, promoting economic development, and bringing diverse segments of the community together, in the city’s sixth ward.

“Andre has proven his dedication to our city as well as our Paterson Public Schools and recreational programs.  I am supporting him because I believe he can do for all of Paterson what he has accomplished in the sixth ward,” said Wimberly, who was born and raised in Paterson and was elected to the Paterson City Council in 2010.

He was elected to represent New Jersey’s 35^th legislative district in the New Jersey General Assembly in 2011. He served as a Paterson teacher and has coached championship high school football and baseball teams at Paterson Eastside and Paterson Catholic, and currently serves as Paterson’s Recreation Director.

“As a life-long Patersonian, I am supporting Andre Sayegh because I believe he will move Paterson forward and make it a safer city for all our families,” Wimberly added.

Paterson’s municipal elections are May 8. Voters will cast ballots for mayor, and for three at-large council seats.

“I am honored to have the support of someone who is also dedicated to our city and has done so much for Paterson,” Sayegh said. “Assemblyman Wimberly has been a great champion for Paterson at the state level, and I look forward to continuing to work with Benjie to move our city forward,” Sayegh said.

Sayegh has represented Paterson’s Sixth Ward since he was first elected in 2008.  He previously served on Paterson’s Board of Education from 2004-2008. For more information about Councilman Sayegh and his campaign, visit andresayegh.com.