Dennis Arslanian Appointed to Borough Council

As his proud daughter Jill held the Bible, Dennis Arslanian smiled while Paramus Mayor Richard LaBarbiera swore him in to become the next Paramus councilman Tuesday during the mayor and council work session. 

Arslanian, who has served on the Borough's recreation commission for the last two years, was selected by council members upon the recommendation of the Paramus Republican municipal committee to fill Councilman Tom Locicero's vacancy.

The other two committee picks were Jeffrey Link and Richard Schweidel. 

Locicero submitted a letter of resignation in May after six months on the council. .

"I am looking forward to serving the residents of this great borough, and also, with the mayor and council, the employees of this great town, who've always put Paramus first," said Arslanian. "I am honored and I'm ready to help this council move Paramus forward."

LaBarbiera welcomed Arslanian to the council and said, "You have been spared a lot of shoes you haven't had to walk in. You are here to join us, but the responsibilities are no less greater than for these folks."

"We welcome you aboard, and I trust you will do everything in the best interest of the Borough," LaBarbiera added.

After the meeting, Arslanian, a retired New York City advertising agency owner who has resided in Paramus for 27 years, said he accepted the position because he always wanted to give back to his community. 

 "I've been an alternate commissioner for the recreation committee and enjoyed that position immensely," Arslanian explained. "Working with Sue Regan was absolutely phenomenal. She and everyone on that commission has done an excellent job." 

LaBarbiera said Arslanian has demonstrated his "heart is in the right place" during his stint on the recreation commission and he is hopeful that his decisions will be in the best interest of the Borough. 

"As I always challenge every council person, put Paramus first,” LaBarbiera said.