Gaetana M. Raymond, affectionately known as "Tana," is running for Garfield NJ City Council, bringing a wealth of experience, a deep commitment to her community, and a genuine passion for making Garfield the best it can be. Tana is a proud mother to DR. Christian S. Raymond, one of the best foot doctors located right here in Garfield, and grandmother to Christian S. Raymond Jr., with two beloved pet schnauzers, reflecting her deep family values and dedication to nurturing both people and animals.

Tana graduated from Felician College with a Bachelor's in Nursing Science and earned her nursing certification from Caldwell College. She furthered her education with a Master’s in Urban Education and another Master`s in Administration/Supervision from St. Peter’s College, making her a highly qualified candidate with a diverse educational background. Tana is a licensed registered school nurse in New Jersey and has held several significant certifications, including NJ School Nurse, Administration, and Supervision.

Her extensive professional experience includes roles at Beth Israel Hospital and Kennedy Memorial Hospital, serving as a Nurse Administrator for senior citizens in Fairview, Lyndhurst, and Lodi, and working as a Healthcare Consultant for Local 29. She has also been an adjunct professor at Felician College, shaping the future of healthcare professionals. Tana’s commitment to Garfield is unparalleled. She served as the first lady mayor of Garfield from 2014 to 2016, deputy mayor from 2012 to 2014, and as a councilwoman from 2008 to 2012.

Her leadership extends beyond politics; she is the founder and president of the Garfield Animal Rescue Foundation (G.A.R.F.), demonstrating her passion for animal welfare and community service. Her dedication to public service has earned her the Outstanding Woman Award by Assemblywoman Shavonda Sumpter and the Outstanding Citizen Award from the Boys and Girls Club. Tana is now running for City Council to address the current issues facing Garfield, including the challenges of overdevelopment of apartment buildings and the misuse of PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) programs. She is dedicated to promoting responsible growth that benefits all residents and ensuring that development projects align with the community’s needs and values. Tana aims to end the overdevelopment that threatens the character of our town and to stop PILOT programs that unfairly shift the tax burden onto residents.

Her goals for Garfield include beautification projects to enhance the city's aesthetic appeal and create a welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike. She plans to improve public spaces, support local businesses, attract businesses into Garfield to reduce the tax burden on residents, and foster a sense of community pride. Tana believes in active citizen engagement and aims to establish open lines of communication between the government and the people, ensuring that every voice is heard and considered.

Her dedication extends to serving on numerous boards, including the YMCA Board of Trustees, Women for Good Government, Bergen County Commission on the Status of Women, Kennedy Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, Garfield Planning Board, Garfield Emergency Response Team, Garfield Library Board, Garfield Board of Health, and the Garfield BOE Transportation Committee.

Tana is committed to making Garfield a place where families can thrive, children can grow up safe and happy, and every resident feels valued. Her campaign is driven by a love for her hometown and a desire to see it flourish. Tana’s blend of professional expertise, political experience, and heartfelt dedication makes her an exceptional candidate for City Council.

Gaetana M. Raymond is ready to lead Garfield with transparency, integrity, and a relentless focus on the community’s well-being. Join her in creating a Garfield we can all be proud of.