Keyport needs Wedick’s commitment and values

Our family moved to Keyport Aug. 24, 1992, having purchased a home next door to Joseph Wedick, city councilman. Joe was the first neighbor I met on that day when he approached my U-Haul rental with an offer of help and very friendly demeanor. Joe was not actively seeking election to public office at that time, so I can attest to the veracity of his character in welcoming a new family into his community.

For the past 12 years I’ve seen Joe commit himself to actively addressing the concerns of the borough and its very diverse constituency. He and his wife Donna have been extremely good neighbors, and his children, which I’ve seen grow from pee-wee to responsible and productive young adults have reflected Joe and Donna’s excellent parenting.

We were heartbroken to hear about Joe’s burdens but even more outraged that in a community such as ours — which wants to position itself as a model of what small town America can be — Joe found himself struggling for support and battling attacks during a time when his opposing colleagues should have demonstrated their true mettle, but instead decided to stab him in the back. It’s sad when good people such as Joe find themselves preyed upon by the very people he has to collaborate with in the course of his elected responsibilities, instead of benefiting from their camaraderie without regard to political affiliation.

Joe will undoubtedly overcome his condition as he has stated, and he will continue to do a great job of representing all of Keyport in spite of his assailants. We are proud to have a neighbor who is not afraid to face the truth as well as the courage to stand up to the challenges needed in overcoming adversity. Given the sad state of affairs with the current administration we will be needing people with Joe’s sense of commitment and moral values.

To Joe I will say, in case he gets to read this, we are here for you, we thank you for all your efforts, and we look forward to the good work still ahead of you. And if you ever need a friend, this town has many in your corner, not the least of which are your next-door neighbors.

Angel L. Matos

Keyport