Hospital trade group picks Paterson councilman Morris as expert adviser
By Jayed Rahman
Published: February 28, 2018
Longtime councilman Kenneth Morris has been selected to serve as an expert adviser to America’s Essential Hospitals, a national trade group that represents 325 hospitals, on Tuesday.
This is the latest indication Morris, who has been on the City Council since 2002, is unlikely to run for re-election in May. Morris has not picked up nominating petitions since the process opened in late December.
Morris works as the vice-president of external affairs at St. Joseph’s Health. He has over 30 years of experience in government relations, public policy, and community development to improve healthcare access for the underserved.
“Ken Morris is a proven community leader with the ideal blend of experience and knowledge needed to support our organization as we move forward. I am excited to have the benefit of his advice and experience, and we look forward to working with him as we champion the agenda of our nation’s essential hospitals,” said Bruce Siegel, president and chief executive officer America’s Essential Hospitals.
Morris will provide assistance and insight on Medicaid innovation and policy.
“I am honored to advise the team and look forward to collaborating with leaders from all across the country to address current and future challenges facing our hospitals,” said Morris. His role will be a voluntary one with the trade group and will not affect his duties at the hospital.
Morris has not ruled out a re-election run. He never takes out petitions early, he has said in past interviews. 815 petitions are needed to get on the ballot. He has said that amount can be collected over a weekend.
Morris, who serves as the chairman of the council’s powerful finance committee, is known for running efficient campaigns. He often recycles campaign lawn signs and other materials to save money.
“We are extremely proud to see Ken Morris take on this critical role of helping hospitals all across the country. He has served our local patients, residents and communities on the regional and state level, and now he is expanding that commitment to the nation,” said Kevin J. Slavin, president and chief executive officer of St. Joseph’s Health, in a news release.
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