After the sudden resignation of the previous deputy city clerk, the City Council on Tuesday night appointed Jacqueline Murray to the post.
Murray, who has been working as a clerk at the City Clerk’s Office for six years, according to municipal records, was appointed in a 7-1 vote.
William McKoy, 3rd Ward councilman, nominated Murray for the position while Luis Velez, 5th Ward councilman, nominated Wanda Santiago.
Murray’s resume states she has been working at the City Clerk’s Office as an administrative secretary since 2010. She previously worked as an office manager at the Law Offices of Errol Hall in Jamaica from 1988 through 2006.
She attended University of West Indies in Jamaica and the Passaic County Community College, according to her resume.
Murray has handled elections and open records requests at the City Clerk’s Office over the past years.
“Over the years I have developed the skills and knowledge in the daily operations of the City Clerk’s Office and have never shied away from any challenges that may arise,” Murray wrote to the council in a letter dated Jun. 15, 2018, seeking the appointment. “Since 2015 I have been actively assuming the duties of the Deputy City Clerk in order to ensure the daily operations of the City Clerk’s Office are effectively and professional conducted.”
Murray is replacing Joan Campbell-Douglas, who unexpectedly resigned from the post, citing “personal” reasons.
Murray, who lives in Paterson, makes $38,000 as a secretary at the clerk’s office, according to municipal records.
Some council members praised Murray while casting their votes in favor of her appointment.
“Having been here for the last six years, working with Jackie Murray, I find that she’s an excellent choice,” remarked Ruby Cotton, 4th Ward councilwoman.
Velez was the sole vote against the appointment. He said either of the two women were qualified for the post.
Santiago worked as the municipal clerk of Prospect Park in 2002, according to her resume. She’s a registered municipal clerk.
“Yes, we’re looking at qualifications, but we’re also looking at you, as the coach, to be able to select your team players,” said council president Maritza Davila to city clerk Sonia Gordon. “Your recommendation should be taken into consideration. Nothing against the other individual with full experience.”
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