FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Linden, New Jersey, May 1, 2023 – Linden Mayor Derek Armstead successfully offset a $3.2 MM loss caused by Governor Philip Murphy’s costly statewide New Jersey Health Benefits Plan. In fact, instead of a drastic property tax increase, Mayor Armstead’s creative allocation of municipal resources and collaboration with the Linden Board of Education resulted in a tax cut for Linden homeowners.

Armstead’s leadership was crucial in identifying solutions to the significant financial setback. He brought the Linden Board of Education into the mix, enabling the school system to identify $2 MM in potential tax savings. The Mayor then leveraged these savings, combined with his own creative allocation of municipal resources to produce a tax cut for all Linden homeowners. The achievement generated widespread praise, with residents commending the Mayor’s ability to think outside the box and find innovative solutions to complex problems. 

“As a former Mayor, I know the issue of employee benefits is an annual struggle,” said former West Orange Mayor Robert Parisi, who commented on Armstead’s fiscal wizardry. “There’s a contractual financial responsibility as well as a moral obligation to take care of your municipal employees where the costs are undeniable, so what Mayor Armstead did to eliminate that deficit is creative good government, and it demonstrates what an effective leader he is.”

First elected Mayor of Linden in 2014, Armstead has made significant strides improving the City’s infrastructure and economy with interconnected yet autonomous government agencies. His focus on creating jobs, attracting new businesses, and improving Linden residents’ quality of life has built a great relationship among its diverse population. 

Armstead’s leadership during this recent financial challenge further demonstrated his ability to navigate complex issues and produce tangible results. With Linden now enjoying a tax cut thanks to his efforts, Armstead’s reputation as an effective leader has only increased.

Some political observers have speculated that Armstead’s success could make him an attractive candidate for Governor in 2025, as Armstead’s continued success in Linden may be attractive to voters looking for a leader who can get things done. For now, Linden residents are celebrating Mayor Armstead’s success, offsetting a significant financial loss while providing ongoing tax relief for Linden, New Jersey homeowners.

On Sunday, February 19th, 2023, Justyna Nieroda and her two children, Sebastian 14 and Natalia 13 had their lives taken from us at the hands of Justyna’s husband, and the childrens’ father, Krzysztof. In tragedies of this magnitude, there are no words that can heal, nor explanations that can serve to make sense of them to the public. May this unfortunate time bring us together to help heal the family, friends and community. On behalf of the family we are asking for our community to donate any contribution they can towards the funeral and memorial expenses through GoFundMe. Please keep them in your prayers.

It is with a terrible sadness in my heart that I inform you about another recent loss to our Linden community. At approximately 9:30am this morning, Linden Police Officers responded to reports of a shooting, at which two adults and a child were pronounced deceased on scene. A second child was transported to Newark University Hospital but was also was pronounced deceased. This loss will raise many emotions, concerns and questions for our Linden community, especially our youngest population. 

I have been in communication with Dr. Rocco Tomazic, Interim Superintendent of Linden Public School, and Atiya Perkins, Assistant Superintendent of Support. Our frontline responders have been extensively trained to respond to events such as this, and both the City and the Linden Public Schools crisis teams have been mobilized to respond to this tragic event. 

Useful information that can be used to provide guidance and assistance for your children and other loved ones can be found here, and also on the Linden Public School website. 

It is important to remember that we are all family in Linden. To say we are deeply saddened by this loss is a severe understatement. There simply are no words to describe the continued trauma, heartbreak and sorrow we are all experiencing. 

For additional information, or if you need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Linden Public Schools at (908) 486-2800 or the Mayor’s Office, at (908) 474-8493, or any of the other agencies listed. We will make every effort to help you and your children cope with this terrible loss. 

It is with deep regret both as your Mayor and a parent that I inform you about a recent loss to our Linden community. The recent death of our student at School No. 4 is  significantly impacting our entire Linden community. We expect a variety of reactions from this loss from our students, parents, staff and members of our community. This loss is sure to raise many emotions, concerns and questions for our Linden community, especially our youngest population. 

I have been in constant communication with Dr. Rocco Tomazic, Interim Superintendent of Linden Public School, and Atiya Perkins, Assistant Superintendent of Support. Our frontline responders have been extensively trained to respond to events such as this, and both the City and the Linden Public Schools crisis teams have been mobilized to respond to this tragic event. 

Useful information that can be used to provide guidance and assistance for your children and other loved ones can be found here, and also on the Linden Public School website. 

It is important to remember that we are all family in Linden. To say we are deeply saddened by this loss is a severe understatement. There simply are no words to describe the trauma, heartbreak and sorrow that we are all experiencing. 

For additional information, or if you need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Linden Public Schools at (908) 486-2800 or the Mayor’s Office, at (908) 474-8493, or any of the other agencies listed. We will make every effort to help you and your children cope with this terrible loss. 

Newly Renovated Sub Acute Unit in Nursing Home Brings Manhattan Aesthetic to Linden, NJ

A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the Grand Re-Opening of AristaCare at Parkside, formerly known as AristaCare at Delaire, on January 26, 2023. The newly renovated Sub Acute Unit in Nursing Home brings Manhattan aesthetic to Linden, NJ.

The event was attended by Mayor Armstead and First Lady Danie Orelien, who officially cut the ribbon to celebrate the completion of the facility’s renovation. The event was a success and attended by many dignitaries, city officials, and members of the community.

AristaCare, a leading provider of senior care and rehab services, has undergone a comprehensive renovation at its facility in Linden, to improve the quality of life for residents. The upgrades include state-of-the-art technology, comfortable living spaces, a brand-new therapy gym with equipment, and a range of cultural programs with educational activities.

“We feel the residents of Linden, Roselle, Rahway, and all of Union County deserve the same upscale experience as seniors that may be living in Manhattan,” said Robert Greenberger, AristaCare Health Services’ Executive Director. “These renovations give our seniors that option. The five-star hotel environment that our building now embodies, matches the five-star level of care that we provide. We are proud to be able to offer this to our community!” 

Mayor Derek Armstead expressed his excitement about the re-opening and praised the efforts of AristaCare in serving the local community. “The renovations at Parkside are a testament to the organization’s commitment to providing top-notch care for seniors,” said Mayor Armstead. “I am proud to be part of this celebration and wish them continued success in their mission.” 

Raphaela Pavovano, Assistant Administrator AristaCare Health Services said “I have been employed in the building for over a decade and I am so proud to see how the facility is now on a totally different level.”

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was followed by a tour of the renovated facilities, showcasing the new amenities and improvements. AristaCare at Parkside is now accepting new residents for sub-acute rehab, long-term care, respite, and assisted living services and is inviting the community to come and see the changes for themselves.