Remembering Alberto Coutinho: A Tribute to a Dedicated Public Servant
Former Assemblyman Alberto Coutinho, a well-known figure in the Portuguese-American community in Newark's Ironbound section, passed away in a car accident at the age of 56. Coutinho, who had two terms in the New Jersey State Assembly, held the position of chairman of the Assembly Commerce and Economic Development Committee. He was also a member of the Assembly Budget Committee and focused on issues such as prisoner re-entry reforms, park expansion, open space, and job creation. Coutinho strongly opposed budget cuts that resulted in police layoffs in Newark.
Coutinho's political career began when he was elected to the Assembly in a special election convention in May 1997 to complete the term of Jackie Mattison. He later ran for re-election in 1997 alongside Grace Spencer, defeating incumbent Wilfredo Caraballo by a significant margin. Coutinho also served on the Newark Central Planning Board and Zoning Board, as well as the Essex County Utilities Authority.
Aside from his political endeavors, Coutinho was involved in various business ventures, including his family business, Coutinho's Bakery. He resigned from the Assembly in 2013 due to legal issues and health concerns, with Democrat Eliana Pintor-Marin taking over his seat. Governor Phil Murphy granted him a pardon earlier this year.
The passing of Alberto Coutinho is a loss for the community he served and the causes he championed. His contributions to Newark and New Jersey will be remembered, and his legacy will live on through his work and dedication to public service. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.