0:08The meeting’s most issue arose during the public comment section, where residents expressed significant concern over escalating utility bills. A particular resident highlighted the financial strain caused by exceptionally high costs for their two-story property. Council members acknowledged the burden of these rising expenses and committed to assisting those affected. They directed residents to the United Passaic Organization for potential relief options and provided contact information for further support. The council also acknowledged that utility bills have experienced noticeable increases, with projections indicating an additional 20% rise, underlining a broader economic challenge for the community.

19:09In response to these concerns, the mayor and business administrator introduced a new energy-saving initiative designed to alleviate some of these financial pressures. This program, approved by the Board of Public Utilities, allows residents to benefit from off-site solar energy resources. Residents were encouraged to visit City Hall to enroll in the program, which aims to reduce energy costs and provide long-term savings.

The meeting also addressed other city matters, such as the ongoing parking line painting project on Hudson and Myrtle Avenue, aimed at improving parking efficiency. The council further discussed the second reading of ordinance 2477 d25, which involved amendments to tax abatement definitions and exemptions for various projects. The ordinance passed without opposition.

0:08Meanwhile, the council celebrated local achievements, recognizing the winners of the 29th annual Passaic County poster calendar contest. The mayor and council members applauded the students’ contributions, with notable mention of Leslie Ramos, whose artwork was featured in February on the calendar. The council president declared February “Leslie Ramos Month” in her honor, and a group photo was taken to commemorate the occasion.

Additionally, the council honored retired firefighter Thomas Michael Reno for his 100th birthday. Reno, celebrated as the oldest surviving retiree of Passaic’s fire department, was acknowledged for his 36 years of service. The mayor expressed gratitude to fire department officials and noted media coverage of the event.

19:09Among the routine council activities, the approval of agenda items and resolutions proceeded with minimal debate. However, a council member raised concerns over the cost of purchasing new recycling containers, questioning the necessity of high prices associated with government contracts. The administration clarified that the containers were distributed for free to encourage recycling, and the larger containers were requested based on community feedback.

The council also scrutinized a contract for an engineering firm overseeing the construction of a parking deck, noting that project costs had increased. Concerns were voiced regarding structural deficiencies reported by the engineer, with suggestions made to explore accountability options with the contractor or design architect to manage the rising expenses.

0:08As the meeting concluded, the council planned a closed executive session to further deliberate on these issues. Before adjourning, members discussed upcoming community events, including a flag-raising ceremony for Dominican Independence Day, scheduled for February 22.