The meeting commenced with a tribute to DeFusco, who decided not to run for a third term, focusing on personal and professional endeavors. Council members, including James Doyle, Jennifer Giattino, and Michael Russo, along with Mayor Ravi Bhalla and Director Freeman, commended DeFusco for his energy, passion, and dedication to serving the community. DeFusco’s contributions to zoning and development-related issues, advocacy for diversity and inclusivity, and his efforts in promoting parklets and business-friendly zoning were highlighted. DeFusco reflected on his tenure, emphasizing his growth as a public servant and his commitment to enhancing the city’s livability.

The meeting then shifted its focus to the Church Square Park Vision Plan, introduced by Director Gonzalez. The plan, developed by consulting team Arterial, aims to balance active and passive uses, upgrade playgrounds and amenities, and improve the landscape. Key points of contention included the conversion of basketball courts into multi-sport courts and the placement of a dog park near Our Lady of Grace Church. Council members expressed concerns about the impact of the dog park on the church and the surrounding community, with Councilman Doyle emphasizing the need to engage with the church and consider alternative solutions. Councilman Quintero urged his colleagues to consider alternative locations for the dog park, expressing concern about making the right decision. The public also raised concerns about the necessity of fencing around the basketball courts and the impact of the proposed changes on the park’s historical and community value.

The Council also debated proposed changes to the definitions in the historic preservation ordinance. Manny Rivera and John K, members of the public, raised concerns about the potential impact of altering the definition of the public right-of-way. They emphasized the need for transparency and thorough consideration of the potential consequences, raising questions about the motivations behind the proposed changes and the potential impact on the community as a whole.

Another contentious topic was the proposed ordinance related to corner lots and affordable housing. Councilman DeFusco expressed initial reluctance to move the ordinance forward due to a discrepancy with the master plan, as indicated by the planning board. Despite the interruptions, DeFusco emphasized the importance of productive change and usability of corner spaces for the community.

The Council also discussed the Hoboken Housing Authority (HHA) Redevelopment plan. Director of the HHA, Marc Recko, provided an overview of the plan, emphasizing the necessity of the plan to address the deteriorating conditions of the HHA buildings and to integrate the authority more seamlessly into the fabric of Hoboken. The public commentary on the HHA redevelopment plan featured impassioned pleas for its approval, with Manny Rivera, a resident and commissioner of the HHA, emphasizing the transformative nature of the plan and its potential to uplift the residents.

The final point of contention was the proposed ordinance to remove sections of the city code related to pay-to-play ordinances. This resulted in one abstention and two dissenting votes, sparking a debate among the council members.