Ralph J. Lamberti, a prominent figure in Staten Island’s political landscape, died on Saturday at the age of 90 due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease.
Lamberti served as Staten Island’s 12th borough president from 1984 to 1989 and was deputy borough president for a decade before that.
His passion for Staten Island was evident in his relentless drive to secure resources and initiatives that improved the quality of life for his constituents.
Throughout his political career, Lamberti championed projects ranging from parkland preservation to vital infrastructure, asserting that no task was too big or small.
“He was a fighter for Staten Island, determined to secure its fair share and shed its stigma as New York City’s ‘forgotten borough,’” said District Attorney Michael McMahon.
Lamberti’s work left a lasting impact, as he worked to expand city services, protect green spaces, and promote cultural initiatives across Staten Island.
He opened an action center to address public complaints about government services, showcasing his commitment to civic engagement.
Brian J. Laline, executive editor of the Advance/SILive.com, reflected on Lamberti’s ability to navigate the complexities of the New York City budget, stating, “He understood the mammoth New York City budget better than anyone.”
Lamberti’s approach to governance was marked by bipartisanship, with many recalling his willingness to collaborate across party lines for the betterment of Staten Island.
Born on November 14, 1934, in West Brighton, Lamberti was raised in a family of Italian immigrants.
He attended Curtis High School, where he played football under the revered coach Andrew J. Barberi.
His higher education journey took him to Wagner College and New York University, where he studied business.
Following his service in the U.S. Army from 1955 to 1957, Lamberti began his civil service career in the Richmond County Clerk’s Office and worked his way up through various roles within the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
In 1963, he married Susan Pederson in the historic Reformed Church on Staten Island.
The couple eventually settled in Westerleigh, raising three sons and a daughter.
Lamberti’s foray into politics began in 1965 when he ran as the Republican candidate for the state Assembly but withdrew before the election.
He later served as business administrator of the state Narcotics Control Center, before starting his tenure at Borough Hall in 1972 as administrator to then-Borough President Robert T. Connor.
Switching parties, Lamberti became a Democratic deputy borough president in 1973.
In his political career, Lamberti faced some tough electoral battles, notably in 1976 when he challenged incumbent state Senator John J. Marchi.
Despite a well-fought campaign, Lamberti lost but received encouragement from then-Democratic Mayor Abraham D. Beame, who praised his efforts.
After his election defeat, Lamberti continued to serve as deputy borough president, advocating for Staten Island’s interests and securing essential services.
In 1977, he successfully lobbied for funding to relocate the Staten Island Institute of Arts and Sciences to Snug Harbor, helping to develop the center into a cultural hub.
His advocacy extended to naming the Curtis athletic field after Coach Barberi and securing funding for the Staten Island Children’s Museum.
In 1980, Lamberti fought to protect Blue Heron Park from development, demonstrating a deep commitment to preserving Staten Island’s natural beauty.
He defended public transportation for high school students, insisting that the government fulfill its responsibilities.
His passion for the arts culminated in chairing the inaugural Neptune Ball in 1983, a prestigious fundraiser for the Snug Harbor Cultural Center, which continues to thrive today.
On November 10, 1984, Lamberti was sworn in as borough president, delivering an emotional speech about his family’s immigrant roots.
As he took office, he quickly became a vocal opponent of efforts to secede Staten Island from New York City, emphasizing the borough’s importance within the larger city framework.
Lamberti’s tenure, however, was not without controversy.
He made a contentious deal with then-Mayor Ed Koch to accept a new city jail in exchange for halting plans for several homeless shelters in Staten Island.
Additionally, he was known for his strong pro-life stance, although he was open to discussion and modified his viewpoints with input from his staff on sensitive issues.
His relationship with Mayor Koch was particularly beneficial for the borough, as Lamberti was reputed to be the only borough president Koch genuinely liked.
In 1989, Lamberti was defeated by Republican Guy Molinari, marking a significant political shift as the first time in 20 years that a Republican took the borough president’s office.
Following his departure from politics, Lamberti served as executive vice president of Staten Island University Hospital for 15 years.
During his retirement, he cherished time spent with his wife, children, and grandchildren, maintaining connections with Staten Island’s leaders and the community.
His numerous accolades included the Ellis Island Medal of Honor and honorary degrees from Wagner College and St. John’s University.
The Staten Island Zoo commemorated Lamberti by dedicating the $5.4 million Ralph J. Lamberti Tropical Forest in 1991.
His service on the board of directors for the Snug Harbor Cultural Center and various charitable organizations showcased his continued commitment to civic engagement.
In February 2023, Borough President Vito J. Fossella honored Lamberti with a special day dedicated to him, recognizing the lasting impact he had on Staten Island.
Survived by his wife Susan, Lamberti is also remembered by his children and grandchildren, all of whom cherished his legacy.
Arrangements for his wake have been announced, scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday at Matthew Funeral Home and Cremation Services, with a funeral mass on Thursday.
As Staten Island reflects on Lamberti’s contributions, one thing is clear: his commitment to the borough and its people will resonate for generations to come.
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