Paterson Fire Officers Association - FMBA Local 202

05/06/2026

🚨 ENDORSEMENT 🚨

This past Monday, the Paterson Fire Officers Association Local 202 proudly endorsed Alex Mendez for Mayor of Paterson 2026!

For the past 8 years, our city has faced serious and ongoing challenges that have directly impacted public safety, our members, and the residents we serve every day. From chronic staffing issues to a growing number of grievances and unresolved contract disputes, the current administration has failed to provide the leadership needed to support first responders and protect our community.

At the same time, the city is now requesting a record $78 million in state transitional aid—a staggering 136% increase from the $33 million received in 2025.
That is not progress—that is a clear sign the current direction is not working.

Paterson deserves better—much better.

We are supporting Alex Mendez because we believe the time has come to embrace new leadership, accountability, and a fresh approach. Alex has demonstrated a willingness to listen to those on the front lines and address the real issues affecting public safety, including staffing shortages, engaging in fair contract negotiations, and improving our operational support.

Our members put their lives on the line every day. We need a mayor who will stand with us—not against us—and who is committed to moving Paterson forward.

We stand united in supporting Alex Mendez for Mayor!

🗳️ Vote Alex Mendez – Column 1A

05/05/2026

01/15/2026

It was an honor to have Assemblyman Kenyatta Stewart and future Paterson Councilwoman-at-Large Paula Alford speak with the members at today’s State FMBA meeting. Both spoke passionately about their support for the fire service and their commitment to standing up for firefighters across New Jersey. Paterson Fire Officers Association Local 202 is proud to endorse future Paterson Councilwoman-at-Large Paula Alford and looks forward to building a strong working relationship with them in the years ahead.

01/10/2026

PATERSON, NJ - Assemblyman-elect Kenyatta Stewart has appointed two senior staff members as he prepares to take office representing New Jersey’s 35th Legislative District.Habib Kader will serve as...

01/09/2026

On Monday evening, the Paterson Fire Officers Association had the pleasure to welcome 2026 Mayoral Candidate Mohammed Akhtaruzzaman and 2026 Councilwoman At-Large Candidate Paula Alford to address our membership regarding their respective plans and visions for the City of Paterson if elected. Both candidates had very strong platforms and spoke highly of the men and women of the Paterson Fire Department. Mohammed and Paula both demonstrated a genuine appreciation for the critical role our Firefighters and EMTs play in protecting public safety and serving the residents of our City.

At this time, and after careful consideration and discussion, the PFOA has decided to endorse Paula Alford for Councilwoman-At-Large in the May 2026 election. Future Councilwoman Alford demonstrated strong leadership, thoughtful engagement, and had a clear understanding of the public safety challenges facing our City. While speaking with the members, she demonstrated a sincere commitment to supporting the Fire Department and vowed to advocate for policies that strengthen emergency services. The PFOA believes future Councilwoman Alford’s education, experience, accessibility, and dedication to the City make her well-qualified to continue serving in this role.

The Paterson Fire Officers Association looks forward to continued dialogue and collaboration with City leadership on matters impacting public safety, emergency services, and the overall well-being of our community. We thank both candidates for taking the time to meet with our officers and for their expressed support of the Paterson Fire Department.