The council discussed the notable rise in health benefits and the need to address the increase, which impacts the city’s financial planning. The budget considerations were a key part of the meeting, as officials grappled with the constraints of the spending cap and the overall impact on the city’s finances. With an eye on fiscal responsibility, the council explored various adjustments to the budget to mitigate the effects of the health benefits increase.

Community engagement was an aspect of the meeting, with residents voicing concerns about the proposed construction of 300 apartments near the railroad station. Issues raised included potential overcrowding, the future of the town, and the need for careful planning and infrastructure management. Learning from other towns and considering state involvement in grants were suggested as ways to address these challenges.

Residents also expressed concerns about pedestrian safety, speeding, and crime in the area, highlighting the need for action from the council. The safety and parking issues associated with the Wal Cart building and the Sears building were also discussed, emphasizing the importance of considering the consequences of development and ensuring adequate parking for both residents and visitors.

In response to these issues, a resolution authorizing the settlement of litigation and a veteran tax exemption were discussed. The acceptance of a state grant and the certification of compliance with the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s enforcement guidance on the consideration of arrest and conviction records in employment decisions were also among the resolutions presented.

The council covered new business, including the final adoption of a bond ordinance for improvements to the Atlantic Street Parking Garage elevators, an ordinance amending the code regarding tree removal and replacement, and a resolution authorizing tax refunds for state board judgments and duplicate payments. A resolution for the introduction of an ordinance to exceed the municipal budget appropriation limits was also introduced.

The meeting provided a platform for the exchange of ideas and concerns between the council and residents. The introduction of several resolutions, such as one for a raffle license, the preparation of a redevelopment plan for specific city blocks, and endorsement of proposed Bergen County Community Development grants, were also part of the discussions.

Council members discussed the revenue generated by the Hackensack Medical Center and apartments. The need for improvements to the Atlantic Street Garage and the approval of a redevelopment plan for the White Mana restaurant were recognized. The mayor mentioned the children’s Easter egg hunt and expressed concerns about the closure of stores on Anderson Street and the potential community impact.

Additionally, the meeting included updates on various construction projects, such as the extension of a contractor’s timeline for the John Earl building, progress on the Anderson Street drainage area project, and the completion of a CCTV and mapping project for a flood mitigation grant. Ongoing work at Carver Park and Johnson Park was also a topic of discussion.

The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss ongoing litigation, including the 125 Willow case, the Seaman GRC case, and PBA Local 9A litigation.