The council’s decision to suspend the Johnson Park Sports Complex project emerged as the meeting’s focal point, prompted by financial concerns and community feedback. Resolution number 321-25 halted the contract with APS Contracting, Inc., after the project’s costs ballooned from an initial $7 million to over $40 million, without any physical construction progress. Community members had expressed dissatisfaction, citing rising taxes and rents, prompting the council to reconsider the project’s feasibility. The resolution called for further community input to explore alternative recreational options for the site. The council’s discussion revealed concerns about change orders and the contractor’s lack of mobilization, ultimately leading to a vote in favor of suspending the contract.

Following the suspension resolution, representatives from Boswell Engineering provided an update on the Johnson Park project. Kevin Boswell elaborated on the master plan’s status and the implications of halting APS Contracting’s involvement. He discussed the intended construction of a 75,000-square-foot building and outdoor facilities, including parking for about 250 vehicles. Boswell addressed environmental considerations, such as flood hazard regulations and site stabilization plans. He assured the council of addressing environmental remediation concerns, while permitting processes were described as straightforward.

In a separate agenda item, the council unanimously accepted the resignation of City Manager Vincent Caruso, effective August 4, 2025. Caruso’s departure was attributed to his pursuit of new professional opportunities, and the council expressed gratitude for his contributions since September 2022. Caruso addressed the council, thanking them and city employees for their collaboration during his tenure.

The council swiftly moved to appoint Thomas Freeman as the new city manager through Resolution number 360-25. Freeman, with a notable 40-year career in the Hackensack Fire Department and experience as interim city manager in 2021, was recognized for his dedication to public service. The resolution emphasized his family’s legacy in serving the community. Freeman expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve, acknowledging his family’s support and the community’s trust.

During the public comment segment, residents raised several issues. J. Toltoy criticized the previous administration’s funding of the Johnson Park Sports Dome, labeling it a financial burden due to bond interest payments and maintenance costs. He suggested developing an amphitheater, like those at Turtleback Zoo or Central Park, to benefit diverse community groups. Toltoy also questioned the necessity of a newly introduced second garbage pickup, advocating instead for hiring additional sanitation workers to manage workloads effectively.

Vicky Farhey congratulated the council on removing the Johnson Park dome and emphasized the importance of maintaining the soccer field for community children. Randy Glover proposed Tony Jackson as Hackensack’s poet laureate and urged the community to give the new council time to address issues left by the previous administration. Donna West welcomed Mr. Freeman and called for the return of community parades, believing they could support local businesses. She also highlighted concerns about public cleanliness and traffic safety.

Community member Dan Kersh underscored the importance of collaboration among city departments and expressed optimism for a new era of partnership. Gary Weslake raised concerns about the community garden at Johnson Park, urging the replacement of fencing removed during construction to protect local produce.