The council engaged in a substantive discussion on updating the tree replacement program. The shift from planting 1-inch caliber trees at $130 to 2-inch caliber trees at $225 was debated.

Public safety was also a concern, as residents voiced issues regarding speed limits on Summit Avenue and Hackensack Avenue, particularly near Bergen Tech Academy, where the speed limit through a school zone is 40 miles per hour. The council discussed the possibility of bringing these concerns to a county commissioner meeting and the potential for changing a traffic light to a flashing red to slow traffic. Furthermore, the council addressed the role of building managers in towing vehicles, especially in fire zones, and clarified procedures under the new ordinance allowing private buildings to post no towing signs.

A member of the public raised concerns about the distribution of residential parking passes, criticizing the approval of raises for city employees and questioning the financial management of the council given tax and healthcare cost increases. The response from the council members emphasized their efforts to control expenses without resorting to layoffs. Another community concern was about the high demand for parking near the train and bus stations on Stanley Place, which the council was urged to address.

The council also responded to a member of the condo Co-op Advisory Board who highlighted the need for increased awareness among residents regarding a new animal registry ordinance, prompted by an incident involving a dog bite.

In addition to these discussions, the meeting featured a swearing-in ceremony for a new police officer. The Department of Public Works was recognized, and May 19th through 25th, 2024 was proclaimed as National Public Works Week.

National Prevention Week and Mental Health Month were acknowledged, with the council stressing the importance of recognizing mental health and substance abuse disorders.

The meeting also included updates on various city projects by the city engineer, such as Carver Park improvements and Green Street updates. The council discussed shared service agreements with the county for 911 communication services.

The city manager reported on upcoming events, including Memorial Day and Pride Month celebrations, the reopening of splash pads, and summer activities like concerts and food programs.

The council expressed gratitude towards the Jamaican organization of New Jersey for their partnership and discussed the waiting list for recreational activities, promising to accommodate demand. The agenda also covered a proposal for a 30-unit senior affordable housing project, emphasizing the effort to implement residency preferences for local residents.

The achievements of local sports teams were acknowledged, alongside the city’s infrastructure improvements, from street repairs to park enhancements.