Kevin Kane, born in Clifton and a proud resident of Garfield for over 20 years, has built a life defined by hard work, perseverance, and a deep commitment to community values. Having experienced both financial struggles and prosperity, he brings a well-rounded perspective to his role as Deputy Mayor, grounded in resilience, resourcefulness, and empathy. He understands the challenges faced by Garfield’s hardworking residents—those who keep the city running, from small business owners and educators to laborers and service workers. Kevin is dedicated to advocating for the most vulnerable and ensuring no one in Garfield is left behind. Whether helping families access essential resources, supporting affordable housing initiatives, or fostering job opportunities, Kevin’s mission is to empower every resident to thrive while preserving the strong, community-focused spirit that defines Garfield.

 

At the heart of Kevin’s life is his profound love for his beautiful wife and two wonderful children, who are his greatest source of inspiration and strength. As a devoted husband and father, Kevin chose to make Garfield his home over two decades ago, drawn to its rich sense of community and potential for growth. His decision to enter public service stems from a deep desire to create a thriving, vibrant city where his family—and all families in Garfield—can live with pride for generations to come. His dedication to his role as Deputy Mayor reflects his commitment to fostering a supportive, prosperous environment that empowers residents, strengthens families, and preserves Garfield’s unique character.

 

Kevin’s dedication to helping others extends beyond his family and embraces the entire Garfield community. Known for his compassion and heartfelt generosity, he is always ready to lend a helping hand, offering support in times of need and advocating for a stronger, more connected city. Guided by a commitment to impartiality, Kevin has remained free from political ties or corporate influence, running a grassroots campaign focused solely on the needs of Garfield’s residents. An animal lover, his passion for responsible pet ownership reflects his broader vision of a compassionate community that values and cares for all its members, human and animal alike. He dreams of a Garfield where trust, safety, and connection are foundational—where children can ride their bikes freely, families feel secure, and everyone can take pride in their neighborhoods. His leadership is driven by a heartfelt desire to foster a thriving, inclusive city that supports and inspires all who call it home.

 

His professional journey is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit, leadership, and dedication to community building. At just 15 years old, Kevin started his own business, NJ Shows, organizing concerts, community events, street fairs, and carnivals, which he successfully ran for over 18 years. He later owned and operated “The Gentlemen's Cut”, a barber shop in Rutherford, NJ, further showcasing his business acumen and commitment to serving others. With over 15 years of experience as a licensed cosmetology teacher in New Jersey, Kevin crafted curriculums for five schools and served as an examiner for the NJ State Board of Cosmetology, contributing significantly to education in his field. His work as a motivational speaker and platform artist has honed his communication and leadership skills, allowing him to connect with diverse audiences and inspire positive change.

 

As a General Manager in the salon industry, Kevin has demonstrated strategic decision-making and effective leadership, skills that translate seamlessly into his role in public service. He majored in Applied Science/Graphic Design, further broadening his skill set to include creativity and technical expertise. Believing in the power of lifelong learning, Kevin returned to college later in life to set an example for his children, proving that education and personal growth are vital at every stage. He has also raised over $100,000 for charitable organizations over the years, including the Andrew Gomez Dream Foundation and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, underscoring his unwavering commitment to philanthropy and community enrichment.

 

Kevin is the farthest thing from a politician. He believes that local government should be run by the people of Garfield, not by those looking to use political positions for personal gain or to exploit residents for their own agendas. He doesn’t follow the norm—he thinks outside the box, and while you might not always agree with what he has to say, his intentions are always in the best interest of the residents. He is not afraid to speak out and defend every person in this city, even if it means going against the grain. He doesn’t care about what people think of him—what matters most to him is doing what is right for the community. He is authentic, passionate, and deeply committed to the well-being of the people of Garfield. He’s not the suit-and-tie type; he’s real, raw, and a proud resident who understands the daily challenges and joys of living here. His approach to leadership is grounded in a genuine desire to serve the community, not to climb the political ladder. Kevin aims to create a government that truly represents the needs and voices of the people—one that is transparent, accountable, and dedicated to the people it serves.

 

Kevin invites everyone in Garfield to join him in working toward a brighter future, believing that together, they can rewrite history and set the stage for tomorrow. He reflects on the power of collective action and the impact of each person’s contribution, emphasizing that anyone with passion, commitment, and a genuine desire to make a difference can create meaningful change. For Kevin, this movement is a chance for all Garfield residents to come together and shape the city’s future. It’s about taking the lessons of the past and using them to build a stronger, more vibrant community for generations to come. Kevin is committed to improving Garfield while preserving the core values and sense of community that make it unique. He believes growth should never come at the expense of what makes the city special—whether it's the close-knit neighborhoods, support for local businesses, or the rich history that residents cherish. His goal is to build a future where Garfield thrives while remaining a place that everyone can be proud to call home. Kevin encourages others to step up and lead in their own ways because real progress comes when the community works together to make their voices heard and their values known.

 

“Let`s re-write history, to set the stage for tomorrow!”