Some of Rick's Legacy

An obituary in the Star-Ledger today details the many affiliations and accomplishments of the late Mayor Richard L. "Rick" Taylor. Perhaps this will answer the question someone left on the blog asking about his legacy in Plainfield.

One very important item was securing Urban Enterprise Zone status for Plainfield. Certified retailers here received permission to charge half the state sales tax, and the collected half went into a fund that could be tapped to improve cleanliness, safety and attractiveness within the zone. Dozens of such improvements have come through that program.

Rick Taylor also mentored many young people, schooling them in the ways of government and politics. Some went on to high-level state jobs and other public service.

Plainfield's boxing tradition found a friend in Rick Taylor, who welcomed them to Second Street Youth Center when he was director. At Grant Avenue Community Center, he created an elegant gathering place for notable events and brought many dignitaries to the Queen City.

Anyone who feels inclined to expand on these examples can leave a comment.

Services will be held tomorrow at Rose of Sharon Community Church in Plainfield and on Wednesday at The Cathedral International in Perth Amboy. Rick Taylor will live in the memories of Plainfielders for many years hence.

--Bernice Paglia