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Paterson public information officer resigned in June, records show | Paterson Times

Paterson public information officer resigned in June, records show

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The woman who served as the public information officer in mayor Andre Sayegh’s administration resigned in June, according to public records.

Jessica Diaz, who was hired by Sayegh to the $60,000 job in May 2019, left the administration on June 18, 2021.

Sayegh was criticized for hiring the daughter of one of his key political supporters. Diaz’s father, Miguel Diaz, campaigned for Sayegh during the 2018 mayoral election.

It’s not clear why Diaz resigned. Her resignation letter does not state a clear reason for her departure.

Members of the City Council said they were never formally told about the resignation.

“My opinion is she was being mistreated and she wasn’t willing to accept that treatment. I take my hat off to her,” said councilman Michael Jackson.

Diaz, the father, said his daughter was unhappy with the work environment. Diaz denied his relationship with Sayegh has soured over the departure. Asked if he would campaign for Sayegh next year, Diaz said he will. He later clarified it’s too early to say whether he will campaign for Sayegh next year.

“It’s so shameful that the people he chooses don’t have confidence in him and resign,” said councilman Alex Mendez. “That’s because he is not serving the residents of Paterson. He is only serving special interest groups.”

Both Jackson and Mendez ran against Sayegh in 2018. Both men expect to run in next year’s mayoral race.

Mendez pointed out half-dozen high-ranking officials in the Sayegh administration resigned.

“This is the first time you see so many people resigning from an administration,” said Mendez.

Sayegh defended the high turnover in his administration.

“Turnover is to be expected in any administration especially during a pandemic. Paterson continues to endure despite this difficult time and we appreciate all of who have served and wish them well in their future endeavors,” said Sayegh.

Update 9:44 a.m.

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  • John

    With all this and shootings at on all time historic high in Paterson, Patersonians will reward this clown and overwhelmingly vite.him back into office.

  • Md Rahim

    “That’s because he is not serving the residents of Paterson. He is only serving special interest groups.”

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