TOWNSHIP OF WASHINGTON, N.J.—Republican Councilman and Planning Board member Arthur Cumming has resigned, citing failing health.
In his letter of resignation March 3, Cumming said he was stepping down at his doctor’s advice, adding, “It has been a pleasure to work with each of you and to serve the residents of the township over the past several years. I wish you all the best in your coming endeavors.”
Cumming and Councilman Michael DeSena, an ally, were sworn in in 2018. Cumming chose to take his oath of office over an 1813 family Bible open to the Sermon on the Mount.
His term was to end this year. At the March 8 budget meeting, his daughter, Heather Castronova, read a personal statement from her father into the public record:
As I end my time as an elected official in this community, I want to thank the voters that gave me the opportunity to serve you. Being your advocate is one of my proudest accomplishments.
The other is my family.
My wife, Mary Ann, is an amazing woman who was a dedicated healthcare worker, and a loving, intelligent, loyal partner through life.
My son, Scott, is a hardworking member of society despite his disabilities.
My daughter, Heather, is a veteran, civil servant, dedicated volunteer to our community, and my biggest fan.
Both my wife and daughter were Girl Scouts and troop leaders. As the great Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, “The Girl Scouts are a force to be reckoned with.” I am fortunate to have them by my side in my time of need.
To the men of the Township Fire Department, I respect your service. I hope you are given a firehouse and tools with the help of Councilman DeSena to continue your service to our community.
To our Ambulance Corps members, which I myself served on in Hackensack, thank you. Your dedication and compassion to our residents and the Pascack Valley community are greatly appreciated.
To the men of the Township Police Department, it has been a pleasure to know your personally and professionally. Your integrity and dedication to your oath to protect and serve—even during times when you were spoken ill of or lack of gratitude was shown—you continued to serve and never wavered.
All of our town employees from the DMF, men and women in Town Hall made me proud with your dedication and professionalism during these difficult times.
To the mayor, councilmen, councilwoman who helped make history, the clerk and administrator, it was an honor to work with all of you and make a difference in our community.
To our young people and my grandchildren, Gina and AJ: Empower yourself with good role models and a good education. Then carry on and make a difference in our country and community. Always treat people with respect and compassion even if you don’t agree with them.
Thank you, everyone, and I hope I made my supporters and family proud.