Above: Gottheimer speaks about Chae before swearing him in as Dumont’s first Korean-American Councilman

DUMONT, NJ – Saturday, January 5, 2019, U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) swore in Dumont councilman Keunsoo “Jimmy” Chae at St. Mary’s in Dumont. Chae becomes the first Korean-American to serve on the Dumont Council. Councilman Damon Englese and Councilwoman Lisa Rossillo were both sworn in as well. Congressman Gottheimer also administered the oath of office to Dumont Fire Department’s new chief Matthew Ferraro assistant chief Christian Baierwalter, and deputy chief Mike Abdulla.

“I want to congratulate Councilman Chae, Councilman Englese and Councilwoman Rossillo on being sworn in to serve on the Dumont Council,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). “Councilman Chae never thought he’d be in this position. But, just like every other time he’s been called up to help the town of Dumont, he stepped up. He’ll bring with him years of experience growing and helping small businesses in the private sector to help spur economic growth in North Jersey and strong ties to a community he and his family have lived in for more than 11 years. Councilman Chae will now have work to fulfill the most fundamental of duties of government: ensuring that our streets are paved, that our first responders have what they need to protect themselves and our families, and keeping our air and water clean. It’s a tall order, but I know that they are all up to the task and I’m grateful for their service.”

Congressman Gottheimer went on to say, “I am grateful for the distinguished service of Chief Ferraro, Assistant Chief Baierwalter and Deputy Chief Abdulla, to our community. As a member of Congress, one of my priorities is the have the backs of our first responders who have our backs every single day. I look forward to working with them to make sure they have the resources they need to keep our families and our community safe by clawing more of our federal tax dollars back to New Jersey for essential equipment and training for our first responders.”

Below: Gottheimer swears in Chae to the Dumont Borough Council

Below: Gottheimer administers the oath of office to Dumont Assistant Fire Chief Christian Baierwalter

Below: Gottheimer presents Michael Abudlla and his family a certificate after swearing him in as Dumont Fire Department Deputy Chief

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