Food insecurity emerged as a primary concern during the meeting. A council member highlighted the city’s ongoing efforts to ensure residents have access to healthy and nutritious food.

The council also addressed community concerns regarding traffic and public safety. A resident named Mos raised ongoing issues with a business, Kyen Mattress, which he claimed was causing substantial disruptions on his street. Mos detailed how large trucks, measuring 53 feet, frequently traversed the narrow street in the wrong direction, creating hazardous conditions. He lamented the ineffectiveness of recent no-parking signs and the lack of enforcement, stating, “the problem became even worse than ever.” The council president inquired about the potential for legally restricting truck sizes in the area, and the Chief of Police acknowledged the situation, noting that solutions were being explored, including the implementation of plastic poles to deter large trucks.

Another resident, Matthew Keski, expressed frustration over heavy trucks in residential areas. He pointed out that current parking restrictions have exacerbated parking shortages, leading to unfair ticketing and diminished availability for residents. Keski’s concerns were part of a broader dialogue on balancing the needs of local businesses with those of the community.

Additionally, the council tackled the escalating issue of vermin, particularly rats, in several neighborhoods. Residents reported significant problems with rats damaging properties and vehicles, with one resident, Raina, noting that the new garbage containers provided by the city had not resolved the issue. The council discussed ongoing efforts to mitigate the rat population, including engaging property owners and setting traps, while emphasizing the importance of proper waste disposal to limit food sources for vermin.

A major announcement during the meeting was the city’s initiative to remove lead pipes from residences, in light of the health risks associated with lead exposure. The mayor emphasized the importance of cooperation from residents, urging them to allow the Passaic Valley Water Commission to inspect their properties. Highlighting a $22.4 billion investment in lead removal across New Jersey, the mayor underscored the city’s obligation to protect its children, referencing the serious consequences of lead exposure, which disproportionately affects minority and low-income communities.

Further discussions delved into the implementation of a new bike-sharing program within the Urban Enterprise Zone (UEZ). The program, starting with 25 single-speed bicycles and 30 stations, aims to provide an economical and accessible transportation option for residents. The council discussed the logistics of the program, including the use of an app for unlocking bikes and tracking usage, as well as maintenance strategies for the bicycles. Concerns about the cost and potential challenges of bike usage were addressed, with assurances that the system would be monitored to ensure effective operation.

The council also approved a resolution for awarding shuttle services within the UEZ, aimed at connecting workers and consumers to business districts. The proposed service would operate five days a week, including weekends, to accommodate shopping patterns, with operational hours ranging from 8 to 12 hours daily. The council discussed the financial implications and the importance of optimizing service based on ridership patterns.

Other notable topics included the adoption of a new software system to improve inter-departmental communication, the purchase of an automated filing system, and a resolution for emergency road paving due to a contractor’s disqualification. The council also moved forward with various ordinances, including amendments to zoning regulations and the designation of restricted parking for disabled persons.