Hi! I’m Jay Decker, a proud father, teacher, and resident of Mount Arlington since 2002. I’m running for Borough Council because I care about our community and want to be active in shaping decisions that benefit all of us. I believe that our leaders should be visible in the community, listening and advocating, and working with and for the people of our town. 

I was born and raised in Morris County, in Wharton and Rockaway Township. I spent time in Mount Arlington as a kid going to Bertrand Island Amusement Park and enjoying activities on the lake. My wife, Karen, and I moved to the Bertrand Island area of the town in 2002. Our son, Brock, was born in 2007. Raising my son in this community has deepened my commitment to it and made me want to take an active role in our future.

His involvement in the wide array of programs offered through our wonderful schools as well as our town recreation program allowed him to have a great childhood. I am committed to ensuring that all Mount Arlington children and families have the same benefits we have enjoyed over these years. 
My background has always been in service. I entered the U.S. Army Reserve after high school, where I was trained as a medic. While completing my duties in the reserves, I began a career with the ARC of Morris County, running programs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. My experiences at the ARC led me to go back to college to pursue a degree in English and Special Education. I earned a Bachelor’s degree in English and a Master’s degree in special education from William Paterson University. I brought my education and experience to Eastside High School in Paterson and have been teaching there since 2011. 

As a community member, neighbor, and parent, I have had the opportunity to get to know many of the wonderful individuals and families that reside here. As your Borough Council representative, I will listen to your concerns and serve our community by continuing to support our schools and by providing leadership that is transparent and responsive. 
Jess Price and I are running to give Mount Arlington something it hasn’t had in a long time: a real choice. We believe it’s time for a council that makes decisions with the community, not for it. You should be part of the decisions that affect your home, your family, and your future.