Mayor Andre Sayegh’s administration has hired the nephew of councilwoman Lilisa Mimms, according to public records.
Ja’ami Mimms was hired as a laborer at the streets division in the Department of Public Works (DPW) on Apr. 22, 2019, according to municipal documents, for $30,000. Public works employees are hired at low salaries, but are able to take advantage of overtime work.
Mimms graduated from Panther Academy in 2010. Next year, he attended Lincoln Tech to obtain an automotive technology certificate.
Mimms has worked as a laborer elsewhere often loading and unloading trailers.
Mimms disclosed his relationship to the councilwoman on job application. He is the councilwoman’s sister’s son.
“He applied. I have nothing to do with that,” said councilwoman Mimms. “His resume speaks for itself. I didn’t need to speak for him.”
The councilwoman pointed out her nephew is a Paterson resident. She also said she tries to encourage residents to apply for municipal job openings.
The hire does not appear to contravene the city’s nepotism policy. That policy defines a prohibited relationship as one where one relative has the authority to supervise or audit their work.
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