Ramsey, N.J. – The mayoral race in the Bergen County borough of roughly 16,000 residents remains too close to call. Incumbent Republican Mayor Deirdre Dillon holds a slim lead of seven votes over Democratic challenger Angelo Lamanna, with numerous absentee and provisional ballots still awaiting tabulation.
Candidates and campaign backdrop
Mayor Dillon, seeking a second term, has emphasized her record of fiscal responsibility and community safety. Lamanna, a former Ramsey police officer making his first bid for elected office, entered the race hoping to bring a fresh perspective to local government.
“I don’t know that going into this I expected it to be that close,” Lamanna told residents after the latest count. “We were optimistic that we had a good chance this year to win. But I never really gave it thought that it could be two votes, and now up to seven votes.”
Local issues shaping the contest
Development and growth have been central themes throughout the campaign. Both candidates discussed how new housing projects and commercial expansion could affect traffic, schools, and property values. While Dillon highlighted her experience navigating zoning approvals, Lamanna warned that unchecked development might strain the borough’s infrastructure.
Community reaction
Ramsey residents expressed a mix of surprise and concern over the razor‑thin margin. “It just shows how divided we are, but it also shows how some people are more liberal than others, or more conservative than others,” said longtime resident Ed Paparo. “It’s kind of wild to tell you the truth, especially in this area.”
Another neighbor, Joanne Furman, reflected on the broader implications of the race. “I think it’s a rough race. You know, what they offer, what they do for you and so far, what I think we’ve had in the past… they’ve done well,” she said, acknowledging the importance of local leadership.
What’s next?
Election officials have confirmed that the count is not yet final. “We are still waiting for the final votes,” Mayor Dillon said in a recent statement while out of town. The borough clerk’s office expects to complete the tally within the next few days, after which the winner will be certified.
Both campaigns have urged supporters to remain patient and respectful as the process unfolds. Lamanna added, “I’m anxious to find out what the final total will be, and if I’m going to be moving on or not.”
Why this matters to Ramsey
The mayor’s office oversees critical functions such as public safety, local budgeting, and land‑use decisions that directly affect daily life in Ramsey. A change in leadership could shift the borough’s approach to development, school funding, and community services.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through the borough’s official website and local news outlets as the final results are announced.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
