14:50The Hackensack Police Department presented the Citizen app, a tool designed to boost public safety by allowing residents to monitor safety resources such as radio transmissions and community-submitted videos. The app, which has been available since 2017, now includes Hackensack Police Department participation to enhance its utility. Chief Antista detailed that the app shares nine specific call types with a 15-minute delay to manage misinformation and prevent panic. The types of alerts include road closures, traffic hazards, and other emergencies, all plotted on a map for clarity. Chief Antista assured that the app does not track police vehicles or officer locations, emphasizing its role in fostering trust and reducing false information.

19:21Concerns were raised about potential misuse of the app, such as false reports. Questions were also asked about whether the app would replace the existing Nixle system, to which Chief Antista clarified that it serves as an additional channel for public safety information rather than a replacement. There was also discussion about the app’s geographical scope, as users can view events nationwide, which may confuse residents expecting Hackensack-specific alerts. The app’s mapping feature is intended to clarify incident locations, and there was a suggestion to provide users with instructions on tailoring notifications.

23:27The meeting also covered infrastructure updates, including the City Manager’s briefing on the 2025 road paving plans. Streets like South Newman and DeWolf Place are prioritized for improvements, funded through grants. Contingency plans are in place should additional funding become available. There was also an update on the veterans banners initiative, with approval secured from Public Service Electric and Gas (PSEG) to display banners on Main Street utility poles. The application process for families to honor veteran relatives will soon commence.

46:16Traffic safety was another prominent topic. Discussions revolved around the installation of red blinking lights at critical intersections to improve safety, particularly on Prospect Avenue and Clinton Street. This proposal came in response to a history of accidents in these areas. A resident supported the initiative, noting increased traffic to the University Medical Center. Visibility issues were highlighted, particularly with stop signs obscured by tree foliage.

53:50Further traffic discussions included speeding concerns across the city. Specific measures, such as speed bumps on Kaplan Avenue and a no-left-turn restriction from Polyfly onto Kaplan, were noted. A council member highlighted the broader issue of speeding and enforcement, referencing multiple accidents at intersections like Prospect and Uclid. A resident shared a personal account of an accident at Anderson and Prospect, stressing the need for increased pedestrian safety.

37:46The meeting also examined drainage issues affecting various areas, including Lord Street and the Green Street drainage system. While some areas are not part of the current project, future funding pursuits through FEMA or the state’s Infrastructure Bank were discussed. Coordination with neighboring towns was emphasized to address regional flooding problems effectively.

01:18:55Community achievements were celebrated, with local youth wrestlers recognized for their success in state championships. The meeting honored Councilwoman Stephanie von Rudenborg for her eight years of service, highlighting her contributions to the community, including advocacy for families with children of different abilities and involvement in local boards. During Women’s History Month, her efforts in establishing a community garden and enhancing local parks were acknowledged, with the mayor noting her dedication to community engagement.

01:57:17Tax abatement programs, specifically the Payment In Lieu Of Taxes (PILOT) programs, were scrutinized. Residents expressed concern over the fairness of these programs, arguing that they disproportionately favored developers over homeowners. Council members defended the necessity of such incentives for city revitalization, citing significant revenue increases from new developments. The debate underscored differing perspectives on economic development and equitable taxation.