Francis Rodgers Seeks Caldwell Council Seat Again: Election 2021

CALDWELL, NJ — The best thing about Caldwell? It's the people who live there, according to Caldwell Councilman Francis Rodgers.

In November, Rodgers will be running alongside Christine Schmidt for a seat on the council in the 2021 general election.

Rodgers ran uncontested for the Democratic Party nomination with Schmidt in the primary election. No Republicans filed to run. Read More: See 2021 Primary Election Results For The Caldwells

Patch recently asked Rodgers to answer some questions about the election. See his replies below.

• Town of residence - Caldwell, NJ
• Age - 61
• Party affiliation - Democrat
• Occupation – High school math teacher
• Education – B.A. mathematics from Rutgers University, M.S. mathematics from Montclair State University

Experience – "I have served three terms and have gained valuable insight and in-depth knowledge of the operations that go on within the town. I have served on practically every board and committee over my tenure. I have been a resident for almost 30 years and have raised a family in Caldwell. My knowledge and experience carries over to our school system (all five children attended Caldwell public schools) and recreational activities (volunteered for many years in a variety of youth activities). As a result I have been exposed to and attained valuable insight and knowledge of many facets of our community."

PATCH: What is the most pressing problem(s) facing the borough?

RODGERS: There are four issues that are of extreme importance and I have been involved with dealing and solving them. The first is the sewer plant. We are in the process of upgrading our sewer system to handle the increased demand and accommodate the community in the future. The second is putting an end to the builders remedy lawsuits and meeting our affordable housing demands in a way that it will benefit and revitalize our downtown. Part of this requires that we improve the parking in the Bloomfield Avenue corridor which we are in the process of doing by increasing the capacity of the Smull Avenue lot. Third, our municipal complex in is dire need of a facelift. We need new municipal building and major improvements to the community center. Finally it has become obvious that we need to find a solution to the run off of water during storms recently. I will push for a comprehensive, borough-wide study to determine the best course of action and put an end to the flooding that is occurring in our town.

PATCH: What's one thing about Caldwell that always makes you smile?

RODGERS: It is the people who live here. I have met so many over the years from all walks of life. I have enjoyed my interactions, not only with the friends I have made, but those who I have met and worked with over the years, whether in the sports or other activities my children were involved with, St. Al’s and all that I have had the honor to meet on the various boards and committees I have served on.

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com

Sign up for Patch email newsletters. Learn more about posting announcements or events to your local Patch site. Don’t forget to visit the Patch Caldwells Facebook page.