One item at the meeting was the swearing-in of Karen Gwyn as a temporary judge for the Hackensack Municipal Court. The ceremony was conducted by Superior Court Judge James Slattly, with Gwyn taking an oath to uphold the constitutions of the United States and New Jersey. Gwyn expressed gratitude to the town council, her family, friends, and colleagues from the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office, emphasizing the enduring support of her loved ones and her sorority. The event underscored the community’s pride in her achievements, with several prominent figures, including Captain Ziz from the Hackensack Police Department and Bergen County Sheriff Anthony Kurid, expressing confidence in her abilities as a judge. Sandra Robinson from the National Association of Women Judges also congratulated Gwyn, highlighting the significance of her appointment as the organization’s 99,998th member.

The community’s recognition of Gwyn’s appointment extended into the public comment section, where numerous speakers shared their appreciation for her contributions to justice and their anticipation of her positive impact in the role. The atmosphere was one of celebration, as attendees took a brief recess to capture the moment with photographs alongside Gwyn.

Beyond the judicial appointment, the council meeting addressed several infrastructure projects. Ryan, a project manager, provided updates on the redesign of Johnson Park and activities at Firehouse Engine 2. He detailed progress on the SCADA system for remote monitoring and improvements at Fashini, which included drainage work and the installation of fence posts and light pole foundations. The Grand A pedestrian safety improvements project was also announced, focusing on key intersections. The 2025 paving program was noted for its completion of roads under the Community Development Block Grant, with more work planned for the spring. Disruptions from PSEG’s gas main work were acknowledged, though advancements had been made. The city received a grant exceeding $317,000 from the Department of Transportation for bridge replacements and rehabilitations, with a total estimated project cost of $1.2 million, backed by I-Bank funding.

The council addressed community events in the city manager’s report, noting successful holiday activities such as the tree and menorah lightings, and the Shop with a Cop program. Upcoming events included Santa Claus visits and an annual children’s holiday party.

The meeting’s discussions on ordinances included the final adoption of Ordinance 47-2025, a bond ordinance for capital improvements totaling $1.32 million. The council confirmed the city’s bond rating as double A2. Ordinance 48-2025, amending taxi cab regulations, was adopted, alongside the introduction of Ordinance 25-2025 for resident-only on-street parking areas overnight, scheduled for final passage in January 2025.

The public comment period featured various community concerns, notably from Joel Dawkins, who urged the council to reconsider the adoption of the New Jersey Cannabis Act, citing potential conflicts with family and children’s values. Dawkins advocated for the prohibition of cannabis retail in Hackensack before an August 2026 deadline. Another resident, L. Lore, shared grievances regarding a building department letter and parking issues, reflecting ongoing challenges faced by residents.

Resident frustrations were further highlighted by a speaker who detailed parking difficulties around the Anderson train station and Clinton Place. The individual sought council assistance after being denied a parking sticker despite being a tax-paying resident. They described the inconvenience of finding parking after work due to spaces occupied by train commuters and requested the council’s help in allowing them to park in front of their home. The council suggested documenting the situation for review by the city manager and traffic department.

Doug Gafello expressed appreciation for the Department of Public Works and sanitation teams for efficient snow removal, noting clear lanes on Summit Avenue. Marlene Somerville, representing the Jamaica Organization of New Jersey, thanked the council for acknowledging hurricane damage in Jamaica.