The newly adopted police contract dominated the meeting’s discussions, with council members expressing strong support for the police department amidst concerns about fiscal responsibility. One member highlighted the lack of a five-year financial projection and criticized the administration’s management, citing past financial missteps, such as the imposition of a sewer tax that failed to yield visible infrastructure improvements. Despite these concerns, the contract was seen as a vital step in addressing the chronic underpayment of police officers, nearly 60% of whom reside in Paterson.

The contract’s approval, with 192 officers voting in favor and only 22 against, underscored the urgency to retain officers who might otherwise leave for better-paying positions in other municipalities. The council president praised Paterson’s police force, calling it one of the best in New Jersey and the United States, while expressing hope that officers who had left for other cities would return. The sentiment resonated with the council, as they acknowledged the need for fair compensation to ensure community safety amid rising crime rates.

Following the contract discussion, the meeting shifted to public concerns about city governance and financial accountability. During the public comment period, speakers criticized the council’s financial management, referencing the city’s placement on review by a credit rating agency due to insufficient financial information. One speaker challenged the council’s fiscal transparency, stating, “we pay more and we get less,” highlighting the delayed 2022 audit and questioning the administration’s explanations.

The council’s handling of community safety and illegal dumping was another point of contention. The proposed deployment of a $1 million camera project, funded by American Rescue Plan resources, aimed to combat illegal dumping and homelessness through strategic surveillance. However, concerns were raised about the methodology for choosing camera locations, with some questioning the decision-making process and the project’s reliance on private internet providers for connectivity.

The meeting also featured discussions on the Real Fix program, a contentious subject among council members. While some defended the program’s achievements in addressing homelessness and providing treatment, others criticized its effectiveness, citing an increase in visible homelessness near municipal buildings. This debate highlighted broader concerns about the administration’s accountability for social issues and the need for comprehensive solutions.

Community input during the meeting emphasized the need for improved governance and accountability. Speakers voiced concerns about the integrity of city contracts, the effectiveness of public safety initiatives, and the transparency of council operations. The discussion extended to the challenges facing local businesses, with one business owner alleging that the administration targeted his establishment for closure, despite his longstanding contributions to the community.