Mayor Peter P. Santana was appointed as Mayor of the Town of Kearny on Tuesday July 11, 2023. He is a naturalized citizen who was born in Brazil. He resides with his wife Renata and son Liam on Davis Avenue in Kearny’s 2nd Ward.

Mayor Santana graduated from the Faculdade Rui Barbosa College in Brazil, where he achieved his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. He has also completed his Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Saint Peter’s University.

He currently works for the Harrison Board of Education as an IT Director, as well as for the Hudson County Schools of Technology as the Principal of the Adult High School night school program at the Harrison Center.

Appointed in 2017 to fill a 2nd Ward Council vacancy, he subsequently ran for and was elected to the position of 2nd Ward Councilman. He has been a Councilman for 7years .He recently ran for re-election and was elected to his 4th term which ends in 2025.

During his term he has worked on various committees and liaison positions. He is currently the Chair of the Police Committee where he works closely with the Police Chief and Police Committee to ensure open communication between the Police Department and the governing body. Some accomplishments include: Night Out on Crime, Drone Surveillance Program, Camera Surveillance Upgrade throughout Town, and Body Cams Purchase and implementation.

In addition, he is an active member of the Recreation Committee where he attends meetings and has provided support for projects, events, athletic and recreational activities including: Halloween Parade, 4th of July fireworks, Movies and Concerts in the Park.

He has attended the Senior Picnic and the Senior Boat Ride for 7 years as both a grill master and a Bus Captain.

Mayor Santana has been named the Peruvian Parade International Godfather by the Peruvian Civic association and has been engaged with the organization in all their activities throughout his tenure.He regularly supports and attends flag raisings, ribbon cuttings , and has marched in the many parades that support and enhance the quality of life for residents , community organizations and business owners.

Mayor Santana is in constant contact with the Town Engineer on multiple projects which include the progress of the street repavement and lead water pipe abatement , the various pump station projects and addressing the resurfacing of the playground at the Gunnel Oval.