Paul Sarlo

Paul Sarlo is a Democratic politician currently serving as a member of the New Jersey State Senate, representing the 36th legislative district. He has been in office since 2003 and has held various leadership roles within the Senate, including deputy majority leader since 2008. In addition to his legislative duties, Sarlo is the mayor of Wood-Ridge, New Jersey, a position he has held since January 1, 2000. Sarlo has a background in civil engineering and is actively involved in the construction industry as the chief operating officer of a general contracting firm.

Early life and career

Paul Sarlo was born on August 31, 1968, in Passaic, New Jersey, at St. Mary's General Hospital. He is the son of Anthony Sarlo, a pipefitter and construction supervisor, and Providence Munofo. Growing up in Wood-Ridge, he attended Wood-Ridge High School, where he excelled academically and athletically, earning varsity letters in multiple sports, including football, basketball, and baseball. His achievements in baseball earned him recognition as a First Team All-Division and All-County player, and in 2014, he was inducted into the Wood-Ridge High School Athletic Hall of Fame.

Sarlo pursued higher education at the New Jersey Institute of Technology, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering in 1991, followed by a Master of Science degree in 1993. His professional career in the construction industry began shortly after his academic pursuits. He currently serves as the chief operating officer of Joseph M. Sanzari, Inc., a general contracting company based in Hackensack, New Jersey. Under his leadership, the company has managed projects exceeding $150 million and employs a skilled workforce of over 200 individuals. Notable projects include significant infrastructure developments, such as the Route 4 and Route 17 interchange and the construction of LG Electronics USA's headquarters in Englewood Cliffs.

In his personal life, Sarlo married Concetta Maria Sarlo in 1997. The couple has two sons, Michael Paul Sarlo and Anthony Joseph Sarlo, both of whom have participated in local educational and recreational programs. Anthony graduated from Lafayette College in 2022 with a degree in civil engineering and currently works alongside his father at Joseph M. Sanzari, Inc. Michael is a student at the U.S. Naval Academy, class of 2027. Sarlo is also involved in community activities, serving on the Executive Board of the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) as an ex officio member. His family has a history of public service, with his brother Thomas serving as a councilman in Little Ferry and being appointed to the New Jersey Superior Court in January 2024.

Legislative service

Sarlo's political career began with his election to the New Jersey General Assembly, where he served from 2002 to 2003. During this time, he was involved in various legislative committees, including serving as Vice Chairman of the Labor Committee and participating in the Appropriations Committee. He was also a member of the Assembly Light Rail Panel and the Assembly Task Force on Fiscal Responsibility. Sarlo sponsored significant legislation, including a bill that established a $29 million grant for a statewide bio-terrorism response plan and initiatives aimed at restoring the Office of Public Advocate and providing benefits for volunteer fire departments and rescue squads.

Following his term in the Assembly, Sarlo was appointed to the New Jersey State Senate in 2003 after the previous senator, Garry Furnari, was appointed to the New Jersey Superior Court. Since then, he has been re-elected multiple times, solidifying his position within the Senate. Sarlo has held leadership roles, including assistant majority leader from 2004 to 2007 and deputy majority leader since 2008. His legislative work has focused on various issues, including public safety, health, and welfare, particularly concerning women and children.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the New Jersey State Senate representing the 36th legislative district, Sarlo has been actively involved in shaping policies that impact his constituents. His legislative priorities have included enhancing public safety, improving infrastructure, and addressing the needs of families and children. Sarlo's background in civil engineering and his experience in the construction industry have informed his approach to infrastructure development and urban planning.

In addition to his state legislative responsibilities, Sarlo has maintained a significant role in local governance as the mayor of Wood-Ridge. His tenure as mayor has seen extensive redevelopment initiatives, including the transformation of the former Curtiss-Wright aircraft manufacturing site into Wesmont Station, which features a new train station and residential units. Under his leadership, the borough has undertaken various community improvement projects, such as road resurfacing, park rehabilitation, and the renovation of public facilities.

Sarlo's commitment to public service extends beyond his official roles, as he actively participates in community activities, including coaching youth sports. His involvement in local organizations, such as the Lions Club International and the Knights of Columbus, reflects his dedication to community engagement and support.

Overall, Paul Sarlo's career in public service is characterized by a blend of local and state-level responsibilities, with a focus on infrastructure, public safety, and community development. His background in civil engineering and his extensive experience in the construction industry have positioned him as a knowledgeable advocate for the needs of his constituents in New Jersey.