Three Candidates From Teaneck First Slate Lead Council Race, Avi Berliner Narrowly Holds Fourth Seat

The results of Tuesday’s Teaneck Township Council election have produced a significant political shakeup, with all three candidates from the Teaneck First slate leading the field and Avi Berliner narrowly holding the fourth and final available seat, according to unofficial election returns released by the township.

The results could substantially alter the balance of power on the Township Council and potentially affect the leadership of Mayor Mark Schwartz, whose allies faced a difficult election night.

According to the township’s unofficial November 3 results, George Fernandez Jr. received 3,447 votes, placing first among the candidates. Denise Belcher followed with 3,361 votes, while Duane Harley received 3,164 votes. All three ran together on the Teaneck First slate.

Berliner, who ran on the Schwartz-backed One Team, One Teaneck slate, placed fourth with 2,802 votes, narrowly ahead of his running mate Sharon Kolb, who received 2,710 votes. The 92-vote difference leaves the final council seat potentially vulnerable to changes as outstanding ballots are counted.

Amrit Ramjattan received 2,632 votes, while incumbent Councilwoman Hillary Goldberg trailed with 1,595 votes.

The election carries particular significance for Teaneck’s Orthodox Jewish community, which has taken a strong interest in the township’s political leadership and municipal affairs. Berliner’s apparent success would secure him a seat on the council, although the narrow margin separating him from Kolb means the outcome is not yet final.

The strong showing by the Teaneck First candidates also represents a setback for the political coalition associated with Schwartz. With three candidates from the opposing slate positioned to win seats, the election could reshape the council’s internal alliances and influence the selection of the township’s next mayor.

Unlike municipalities where voters directly elect the mayor, Teaneck operates under a system in which councilmembers choose the mayor from among themselves. Consequently, the composition of the council following the election will play an important role in determining who holds the township’s top leadership position.

The results remain unofficial and are subject to additional ballot counting and certification. While Fernandez, Belcher and Harley hold substantial leads, the contest for fourth place remains considerably closer, with Berliner ahead of Kolb by just 92 votes.