The discussion of the internal audit became the center of attention as Deputy Mayor Danielle Gee proposed a forensic audit of two organizations planning to construct monuments on the municipal green. The proposal aimed to ensure proper use of allocated state funds. This sparked a debate among council members about the scope and cost of the audit. Councilman Mark J. Schwartz was notably against the idea of spending $10,000 on a forensic audit and suggested starting with an internal review by the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) or the auditor. Councilwoman Karen Orgen echoed the sentiment of supporting an audit but questioned the need for a costly expenditure, advocating for an exploration of internal controls and processes.

Councilman Elie Y. Katz and Deputy Mayor Gee expressed concerns about the financials and potential conflicts of interest, particularly with the Jewish Link, which received funds from one of the memorial organizations. After a vote, the motion for the forensic audit did not pass, leading Deputy Mayor Gee to propose an alternative motion for an internal audit, which was seconded by Councilman Katz. Discussions on the internal audit’s scope, particularly on including a review of the organizations’ makeup, remained unresolved at the meeting’s close.

In addition to the internal audit debate, the council addressed the issue of affordable housing, with Councilwoman Denise Belcher presenting a proposal focused on determining the required number of affordable housing units. Discussions included giving priority to Teaneck residents and exploring options with the legal and planning teams. Councilwoman Hillary Goldberg raised concerns about revising affordable housing numbers and the expiration of older housing units.

The council unanimously approved a resolution honoring Black History Month, with particular emphasis on voting rights. The resolution, introduced by Councilwoman Belcher, aimed to support equitable access to voting and raise awareness of the historical struggles of African-Americans. Former councilwoman Javon Romney Rice and residents Nadia Hussein and Cheryl Hall voiced strong support for the resolution, highlighting its importance in championing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Other community concerns were brought forward by residents during the communications segment of the meeting. Traffic safety, particularly near Teaneck High School and on Palmer Avenue, was a prevalent topic, with residents advocating for measures to slow down traffic and ensure pedestrian safety. The council agreed on the need for increased safety measures, with Mayor Michael Pagan detailing the installation of various traffic control devices.

The council also heard from residents on the proposed renaming of Windsor Road in honor of Rabbi Lewis Joel Seagull, the cleanliness of Teaneck Road, and the treatment of a resident journalist at a recent event. Township Manager Mr. Kazinsky announced improvements, such as the township’s upgraded Moody’s rating and various project updates, including park renovations and infrastructure improvements.

Councilwoman Danielle Gee highlighted the importance of open public comments and community participation, while Councilwoman Hillary Goldberg reaffirmed her commitment to addressing safety improvements and combating anti-Semitism.