The following is a press release the town of Harrison issued in light of Mayor Raymond McDonough’s passing earlier today:
It is with great sadness that the Harrison Town Council announces that Mayor Raymond J. McDonough died
suddenly today at his office in Town Hall.
Raymond had just started his 20th year as Mayor of Harrison, the Town that he loved and to which he dedicated his time and talents. Today, Harrison lost a native son, a tireless advocate, and a dear friend. Raymond’s door was always open, and he never passed up an opportunity to talk about Harrison and its residents.
No politician was more caring or generous than Raymond. He would give the shirt off of his back if
someone was in need. Countless families had holiday meals, heat, and roofs over their heads because of
Raymond’s generosity. He never said “no” to anybody.
Raymond began his political career in 1978, when he was sworn-in as councilman for the 2nd Ward. He
continued to represent his 2nd Ward neighbors for 17 years, until he was elected as Mayor. A gifted athlete,
Raymond proudly served as the Recreation Chairman for many years, and the youth of Harrison benefitted
greatly.
Raymond not only followed in the political footsteps of his father, who was a Harrison Alderman and
Hudson County Freeholder, he also followed him professionally, becoming a Master Plumber and later a
Foreman for Plumbers Local 24.
As part of his plan to revitalize Harrison, Raymond was in the midst of a massive redevelopment effort
designed to replace 250 acres of decaying and contaminated industrial land with residences, business and
entertainment facilities, and office space. Under Raymond’s constant direction, the Town saw the rise of Red
Bull Arena, the Hampton Inn, Panasonic’s R&D center, the River-Park condos, Harrison Station, a 1,400
space parking garage, and many others. After many years of exhausting efforts, Raymond convinced the Port
Authority of NY/NJ to re-build the Town’s antiquated and inaccessible PATH station.
Indicative of his devotion to Harrison’s senior residents, Raymond was the driving force behind the new
affordable senior apartments being constructed on Harrison Avenue, using entirely grants and fees collected
from redevelopers. According to Raymond, nothing was too good for “his” seniors.
As part of his efforts to help Harrison’s underprivileged, Raymond partnered with North Hudson Community
Action Corp. to bring a state-of-the-art medical clinic to the Town, so that uninsured families can receive
quality healthcare. Construction is scheduled to begin in March.
As devoted as Raymond was to Harrison and its residents, he was more devoted to his family. Raymond
leaves behind his beloved wife of over 40 years, Connie, who has been a constant source of support to
Raymond throughout his political career. For that, Connie deserves the thanks and admiration of Harrison’s
residents. Raymond also left behind his twin brother, Thomas, sisters Maureen, Kathleen, and many in-laws,
nieces and nephews.
Raymond died doing what he loved–serving the Town of Harrison and its people. He will be greatly missed.
