Meet Mohammed
Mohammed Akhtaruzzaman: Proven Leader for a Safer Paterson
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Former Councilman Community Leader
Mohammed Akhtaruzzaman made history as the first Bangladeshi American to serve on the Paterson City Council. He has fought for working families, stood against wasteful spending, and championed community-driven solutions throughout his career.
"I've served Paterson before – now I'm ready to lead it forward. Let's make our city affordable, safe, and clean again."
My Promise
I didn't start in politics for power. I started because I saw the struggles of our families – taxes too high, streets not safe enough, and garbage piling up on our sidewalks. I served on the Council and I fought for you then. Now I'm ready to fight even harder as your Mayor. My vision is clear: Lower taxes. Safer neighborhoods. A cleaner city. That's what every Paterson family deserves, and that's exactly what I'll deliver.
Timeline of Commitment
Key moments in Mohammed's service to our community.
2010 – Community Rally Leadership
Organized one of the largest community rallies in Paterson opposing the proposed property tax burden and advocating for residents' rights.
2011 – Halal Food Program Initiative
Together with community leader Aziz Rahman, initiated efforts to introduce a Halal food program in Paterson Public Schools, advocating for Muslim students and families. After years of advocacy, the initiative became effective in the school system.
2012 – Candidate for Second Ward Council
2012 – Candidate for Second Ward Council
2013 – Public Safety Leadership
Served as Chairman of the Public Safety Committee in City Hall. Sponsored and supported an ordinance allowing the city to hire additional Class II Police Officers, strengthening local public safety.
2013 – Policy and Development Decisions
Participated in key municipal decisions, including policies related to the redevelopment and investment of the St. Joseph’s Hospital property, aimed at encouraging economic growth while balancing property tax considerations.
Community Advocacy – School Construction Issue
Led demonstrations regarding the Hazel Street and Marshall Street school construction project, which had stalled after foundation work and remained abandoned for years. Advocated for accountability and progress on the project.
Economic Development Vision
Advocated for policies that support responsible development. Over the last several years, approximately $1.5 billion in development projects have taken place in Paterson, contributing to economic growth and city revitalization.
Campaign Priorities
Three Bold Commitments
Three bold commitments to fix what's broken and build a city that works for every resident.
Lower Your Taxes
Stop wasteful spending and end unnecessary tax abatements that hurt homeowners and businesses. I'll cut unnecessary expenses so your hard-earned money stays in your pocket.
Safer Neighborhoods
Hire more Class 2 police officers to patrol our streets frequently – visible presence means real deterrence and faster response times. Let's take back our blocks!
End the Trash Crisis
Hire a reliable private company for better, consistent trash collection. Long-term: Build our own city fleet of garbage trucks to save money and control quality.