The city of Passaic has obtained a $6 million grant to mitigate flooding conditions, an issue that has long affected the community. This substantial funding, part of the city’s broader capital improvement strategy, also includes the creation of an all-water park at Colonel Johnson Park, backed by an additional state grant of $2.5 million. The investments into the park systems and infrastructure aim to enhance the quality of life for residents and address long-standing environmental concerns.

In the same vein, the council revealed plans for an exciting new project that involves the revitalization of local train tracks and the construction of a Riverfront walk. The project is set to transform the city’s landscape, boosting connectivity and providing a recreational space for the community. Moreover, the council discussed the awarding of money for park maintenance and the essential upkeep of overgrown areas, which serve as natural buffers.

The preliminary 2024 budget was a focal point, with the head of Finance and the business administrator presenting a detailed workbook. The budget includes a 3.38% salary increase due to contractual obligations, a rise in liability and workers’ compensation insurance, and elevated pension contributions and health benefits costs. The proposed budget totals $116,511,148 and anticipates a 5% tax increase, translating to an estimated $345 impact on the average municipal tax bill. The budget’s reliance on taxation was a subject of debate, as taxes comprise 66% of the budget. Council members questioned the logic of maintaining a $20 million surplus.

Another issue of financial prudence was the allocation of American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds. The city plans to deplete all received ARP funds, primarily for revenue loss due to the COVID-19 pandemic, overtime, salaries, and sewer infrastructure projects. The administration stressed the importance of a substantial surplus to cater to unforeseen circumstances and meet contractual obligations. There was concern about the future impact of exhausting the ARP funds on the city’s budget and the potential reliance on this surplus.

Health benefits also sparked discussion, with officials expressing alarm over a 30% increase in costs over two years. This rise in expenses was viewed as an additional financial burden on the community, particularly for recent graduates.

The council highlighted the city’s affordable housing initiatives, discussing the Community Development Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Home Investment Partnerships Program. Council members emphasized the importance of these programs, acknowledging the prudent use of funds to support the city during the pandemic. The council scrutinized the allocation of these funds for affordable housing projects and debated the criteria for determining funding.

During the meeting, concerns were raised by residents regarding public safety and community welfare. A resident shared a distressing incident involving her grandson and the subsequent lack of police response and surveillance footage. The Deputy Chief of Police acknowledged the ongoing investigation, while the Mayor and council members discussed increasing police presence and surveillance in housing areas. Furthermore, the council addressed citizens’ concerns about the state of local parks and infrastructure, including the condition of North Pulaski Park and the restoration of a prominent city fountain.

Public comments during the meeting brought up the community’s frustration with the council’s meeting procedures and the historical oppression of African Americans in the city. A community member cited the targeting of black individuals by police officers and the treatment of the black community, calling on the council to address racial equity and meet community needs.

In response to public comments about specific issues, such as a downed no parking sign and illegal parking, the council directed residents to the appropriate city agencies. However, broader concerns regarding racial equity did not elicit a direct engagement from the council.