Strong local leadership begins with understanding the community - not from a distance, but through years of living, working, serving and building relationships within it.
The Teaneck First team brings three distinct areas of experience and one shared commitment to the town they call home.
Deputy Mayor Denise Belcher has spent decades as an entrepreneur, real estate broker and community leader. As the current Deputy Mayor, she understands both the responsibilities of municipal government and the importance of remaining accessible to residents. Her experience provides a practical understanding of how public policy affects homeowners, renters, business owners, families and seniors.
George Fernandez Jr. brings the perspective of a union vice president, social worker, community advocate and Teaneck small-business owner. His work has placed him alongside working people and families navigating real-world challenges. He understands what it means to advocate for people, manage competing interests and help turn community concerns into practical action.
Duane Harley, Esq. combines legal and business experience with a decade of service advising Teaneck's Planning Board and Youth Advisory Board. His work has given him valuable insight into development, land-use decisions and the importance of creating meaningful opportunities for young residents. As the owner of his own law practice, he also understands the responsibilities facing local entrepreneurs.
These are not resumes constructed for an election. They represent years of work and relationships already rooted in Teaneck.
Together, the candidates bring experience in municipal government, labor, law, planning, youth engagement, social work, business and community service. That combination matters because the issues facing Teaneck do not exist in isolation.
Development affects traffic, infrastructure and property taxes. Youth engagement connects to recreation, education and public safety. Support for local businesses connects to affordability, commercial vitality and the services available to residents. Good decisions require leaders who understand those relationships.
Teaneck First also understands that leadership is about trust. Residents should know who their representatives are, how to reach them and whether they can expect an honest response - even when the answer is difficult.
Denise Belcher, George Fernandez Jr. and Duane Harley are known throughout Teaneck because they have already been doing the work. Three leaders. Diverse strengths. One commitment: putting Teaneck first.
