0:09The council faced a compelling plea from Renee Chro, a resident who addressed the council regarding the redevelopment plan for 1012-1022 Avenue C. Chro shared her family’s deep historical ties to the synagogue, describing it as a vibrant hub of community life and cultural significance to Bayonne’s Jewish community since the 1910s. She vividly recounted the synagogue’s turquoise and gold ceiling adorned with astrological symbols, advocating for its preservation and suggesting its conversion into a community theater instead of proceeding with the planned housing development.

A council member acknowledged the importance of historical preservation but highlighted that the redevelopment plans had already been discussed at the planning board level, with parking concerns for new developments being a significant consideration. The council member expressed openness to exploring ways to honor the synagogue’s historical significance, possibly through a plaque or other forms of acknowledgment, but refrained from making any promises until further discussions could occur. This exchange underscored a tension between preserving historical sites and accommodating urban growth, a recurrent theme in the council meeting.

19:13The issue of redevelopment was also prominent in discussions about a long-standing pharmacy associated with the Meer Israel community. Council members voiced their commitment to memorializing the community’s history, with suggestions such as a plaque or street sign being floated.

35:07The council also addressed safety concerns at Bayonne’s intersections, with discussions on the installation of new signage to enhance pedestrian safety. The need for more durable, spring-loaded signs and the potential introduction of pedestrian-activated blinking signs were considered as measures to prevent accidents, particularly at problematic intersections such as 49th Street and Broadway. The estimated cost for these safety improvements was noted to be under $60,000, presenting a feasible solution for the city.

In parallel, an ordinance aimed at replacing lead service lines within Bayonne was presented, with a proposed appropriation of $13 million for the project. The council discussed the urgency of replacing approximately 8,000 lead lines at the house level and identifying an estimated 10,000 lines between the curb and main. The proposed financing through the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank’s loan program, which offers loan forgiveness covering a portion of the project’s cost, was outlined. Council members expressed their support, recognizing the health benefits and financial relief this project would offer residents.

A resolution honoring Joseph G. Nichols for his extensive service to the city was introduced. Nichols’ involvement in various city roles, including law director and tax assessor, was celebrated, culminating in a proclamation declaring February 20, 2025, as “Joseph G. Nichols Day” in Bayonne.

51:49The council also considered several redevelopment projects, including a plan for 28-34 East 22nd Street, which aligned with local redevelopment and housing laws. Financial agreements for properties affected by Hurricane Sandy, such as those at 107-111 Avenue F, were reviewed. These agreements, structured as 25-year Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) arrangements, aim to facilitate urban renewal while adhering to updated floodplain regulations.