Englewood City Council Faces Public Outcry Over Housing Plan and Infrastructure Concerns
- Meeting Overview:
The Englewood City Council meeting was marked by significant public dissent regarding the proposed housing element and fair share plan, alongside concerns about local infrastructure and flood management. Residents voiced their dissatisfaction, calling for amendments to the housing plan and expressing frustration over unresolved flooding issues and traffic safety on Broad Avenue.
28:23One of the most contentious issues discussed was the proposed housing element and fair share plan, which aims to meet state-mandated affordable housing requirements. Many residents criticized the plan for disproportionately impacting certain neighborhoods while sparing others. A speaker highlighted that the fourth ward, in particular, was being burdened with zoning changes, describing it as an “overburdened community” facing environmental risks. This sentiment was echoed by others who demanded that the council reconsider the placement of affordable housing units, advocating for the use of industrial areas instead. Concerns were raised about the plan permitting a higher ratio of market-rate units to affordable units, which residents argued could delay meaningful progress on affordable housing and contribute to gentrification.
The council was urged to consider amendments that would better distribute development and avoid concentrating it in already vulnerable areas. Criticism was also directed at the planning process itself, with residents feeling that public input was not adequately considered. They called for a more transparent and inclusive approach, emphasizing the need for equity across all city wards.
06:11In line with these concerns, the council faced pressure to address infrastructure issues, particularly flooding and traffic safety. The discussion on Broad Avenue highlighted the dangers posed by insufficient traffic management, with residents calling for immediate actions rather than prolonged studies. The lack of proper striping and parking management has led to frequent accidents, and there was a call for clarification on the scope of work assigned to the traffic consultancy firm Dynamic Traffic.
49:36Flooding was another issue, with residents expressing frustration over the city’s handling of drainage problems. A long-term resident recounted years of persistent flooding impacting his family business and criticized the lack of action from city officials. There was a demand for a plan to address drainage issues, emphasizing that the responsibility should not fall solely on developers. The need for regular maintenance of flood-prone areas was highlighted as a priority to prevent further damage and inconvenience to residents.
51:50Issues of communication and transparency were recurring themes, with residents expressing distrust towards the council’s handling of certain projects and the perceived lack of engagement with the community.
01:10:30In addition to these concerns, the council also discussed other topics, such as the financial burdens placed on nonprofit organizations using public spaces. Residents argued for fee exemptions for local nonprofits, emphasizing their role in enhancing community life and providing essential services. The council acknowledged these concerns and mentioned that updates on these issues would be forthcoming.
The meeting concluded with a focus on upcoming community events, including Juneteenth celebrations and fireworks displays.
Michael Wildes
City Council Officials:
Charles Cobb, Dr. Kenneth Rosenzweig, Dr. Lisa Wisotsky, Angela David, Kevin Wilson
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
06/17/2025
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Recording Published:
06/17/2025
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Duration:
189 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Bergen County
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Towns:
Englewood
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