Bayonne Residents Voice Health Concerns Over Scrap Metal Yard at City Council Meeting
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
10/16/2024
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Recording Published:
10/18/2024
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Duration:
86 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Hudson County
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Towns:
Bayonne
- Meeting Overview:
During the Bayonne City Council meeting on October 16, 2024, residents expressed concerns over environmental issues, particularly focusing on air quality and health impacts associated with the EMR scrap metal yard. The council addressed multiple resolutions and ordinances amid growing community dissatisfaction with industrial activities affecting their neighborhoods.
A prominent topic was the ongoing health and environmental problems reportedly caused by the EMR scrap metal facility. Residents, including Jean Perry and Patty Mulligan, shared personal stories related to the pollution and its effects on their health. Perry, visibly distressed, revealed her lung condition worsened after discovering nodules, attributing her ailments to the air quality around the EMR site. Mulligan, echoing these concerns, recounted her health deterioration since the yard’s operations began, stressing her link to the community and the impact on her breathing.
In response, a council member acknowledged the city’s awareness of the air quality complaints and confirmed collaboration with the Hudson Regional Health Commission and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). The NJDEP had issued a notice of violation for two breaches of the Air Pollution Control Act to the property owner. Despite these efforts, residents, including Robert and Dorothy Ninski, continued to express dissatisfaction with the lack of communication and perceived inaction. They described noise, dust accumulation, and rodent issues linked to the scrap metal operations, emphasizing the disruption to their previously peaceful neighborhood.
In parallel with environmental concerns, the council considered several redevelopment plans, including a significant project on Avenue F involving 52 residential units. The proposal was discussed with an emphasis on adhering to floodplain regulations, and the potential inclusion of workforce housing was suggested to address the city’s need for affordable options. Another redevelopment plan for 4102 Avenue E was also considered, with public hearings scheduled for November 13.
The council engaged in discussions on amendments to traffic ordinances, introducing a new pickup and drop-off zone for handicapped students. Additionally, a bond ordinance related to public safety technology and equipment was approved, highlighting ongoing efforts to enhance city infrastructure.
A notable resolution involved a $100,000 payment to CIHB Urban Renewal LLC for street improvements, clarifying the payment process due to conflicting language in previous agreements. This step was taken to ensure transparency in financial transactions related to redevelopment.
The meeting also covered telecommunications agreements, including a Right-of-Way agreement with Comcast Business Communications LLC. Council members raised concerns about potential overcrowding of lines and emphasized the need for provisions requiring the removal of non-functioning lines. A council member underscored the importance of clear obligations within such agreements to maintain public rights-of-way.
In a related discussion, the issue of dead wires owned by Verizon and Cablevision was addressed. The council debated the feasibility of enforcing the removal of unused lines and the practical challenges posed by Verizon’s statewide franchise agreement. Council members proposed a timeline for wire removal and emphasized the need to initiate discussions with telecommunications companies to address visual clutter in public spaces.
In concluding the meeting, the council addressed contractual amendments for police chiefs due to changes in state administrative codes affecting terminal leave and retirement payments. The council also announced an event called “Calming Sirens” aimed at fostering trust and understanding between emergency services and the special needs community, encouraging participation from residents.
Jimmy Davis
City Council Officials:
Neil Carroll III, Jacqueline Weimmer, Gary La Pelusa Sr., Loyad Booker, Juan M. Perez
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
10/16/2024
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Recording Published:
10/18/2024
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Duration:
86 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Hudson County
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Towns:
Bayonne
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