The meeting spotlighted the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, with attention given to honoring individuals who have made notable contributions to the community. Commissioner Cruz introduced the program, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the achievements and resilience of the Hispanic community. A highlight of the celebration was the recognition of Ashley Sanchez, the first female member of the Paterson Fire Department’s rescue squad. Sanchez was honored for her exemplary service and commitment to public safety in a traditionally male-dominated field. Her achievements were acknowledged in a proclamation read during the meeting, and she expressed gratitude for the honor, crediting her family and colleagues for their support.

Another honoree was AJ Luna, recognized for his extensive work in veteran services. Luna’s accolades include the Hispanic Star Change Makers award at the United Nations and leading an emergency housing assistance program that has helped over 500 veterans transition from homelessness. In his speech, Luna emphasized community support and the importance of helping those in need, regardless of their background.

Jessica Gonzalez was also honored for her leadership in community service, notably as the CEO of QUMAC, a major anti-hunger organization in New Jersey. Her dedication to helping those in need was rooted in her upbringing in Washington Heights, inspired by her family’s ethos of supporting the community. Gonzalez encouraged community involvement and emphasized the importance of being a resource for those in need.

The meeting further recognized Lar Cologne for her 32 years of service to Passaic County. Her dedication to the county was commemorated, and she expressed gratitude for the support she received throughout her career. Her recognition highlighted the board’s appreciation for long-standing service and commitment to the community.

In addition to community recognitions, the board addressed ovarian cancer awareness, with a proclamation highlighting the disease’s statistics and the need for public awareness due to the lack of reliable early detection tests. The board declared September as ovarian cancer awareness month, encouraging community support for the cause.

The meeting also featured scholarship presentations by the New Jersey chapter of the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials. Doria Heris and Jaquasia Prior were honored as scholarship recipients. Heris, pursuing an associate degree in criminal justice while working full-time and raising three children, received a $1,500 scholarship. Prior, studying psychology with a focus on applied behavioral analysis, was awarded $3,000. Both recipients expressed gratitude.

Attention was also given to the potential impacts of a federal government shutdown. Concerns were raised about the effects on local residents, including federal employees and active-duty military families facing pay disruptions. The board discussed the broader economic ramifications, emphasizing the potential reduction in GDP and financial losses.

The meeting concluded with the approval of Guarantee Ordinance 2025-07, permitting the Little Falls Board of Education to borrow approximately $45 million for school improvements. The ordinance was presented as a prudent financial decision, not affecting the county’s borrowing capacity.