The council approved an ordinance adopting a Redevelopment Plan for the property at 455-461 Avenue C, after addressing a discrepancy and amending the ordinance to specify the correct building height. The developer’s attorney confirmed the changes were minor and agreed with the final plan. Additionally, an ordinance correcting a scrivener’s error in a Financial Agreement between the city and 197 Avenue E Urban Renewal LLC was passed.

Housing affordability and the impact of tax increases were central in the council’s discussion. A council member proposed an ordinance aimed at providing workforce or AMI regulated units in new multifamily developments to tackle the housing affordability crisis. The need for oversight to preserve dignity for renters and homeowners was stressed.

The council also considered an ordinance amending an encroachment agreement with 197 Avenue E Urban Renewal LLC, addressing an error in the property’s block and lot designation. An ordinance vacating a portion of Memorial Drive North Veterans Memorial Highway and Harbor Place was discussed as well. Furthermore, amendments to the city’s fire prevention and protection ordinances were considered, with appreciation expressed for the fire department’s efforts and a phased approach to fee increases. An error in the city’s traffic ordinances was corrected through another amendment.

Public engagement emerged as a crucial theme when residents voiced concerns over the construction of a dog park. The park, built close to residential properties, was said to have been constructed without adequate notification to residents, lacking transparency and communication from the city. Residents called for accountability and transparency in future decisions regarding public spaces. The proximity of the dog park to homes, along with associated noise, traffic, and parking issues, were also brought to the council’s attention. In response, council members acknowledged the challenges and suggested considering specific hours for the dog park or seeking alternative solutions.

In addition to development and housing, the council addressed infrastructure and community services. An ordinance was introduced to address the installation of light poles and the need for a new foundation near the Bradway Diner. The council approved financial agreements for properties on Avenue E and JFK Boulevard and discussed amendments to traffic ordinances to establish restrictive parking zones.

Debate and discussion ensued over a resolution honoring the closure of the Bayonne Community News. Former staff members shared conflicting sentiments about the publication’s management and legacy, but the resolution was ultimately approved. The council also agreed on a contract for water and sewer system improvements and professional engineering services for a flood mitigation project at Cottage Street Park.

The meeting included discussions about collaborating with the Board of Education on projects for the community’s benefit. A contract for improvements to Dennis P Collins Park was awarded, and the council ratified agreements for the 2024 Bayonne Food Truck Festival and Music Festival. They also entered into an interlocal agreement to investigate and monitor cases of elevated lead levels and discussed construction work hours for certain properties. Appointments to the rent control board were made, and the council voted to go into a closed session before adjourning.