The formation of the Emergency Food Provider Coalition was a major highlight. The EFPC seeks to unite grassroots food organizations and partners to streamline and enhance food distribution efforts. With 20 active members, including faith-based groups and health-focused nonprofits, the coalition has convened multiple meetings since December to strategize and implement effective solutions. A distinctive feature of the EFPC is its lived experience group. The coalition prioritizes mutual support, funding, volunteer coordination, and the sharing of best practices in food distribution. It also provides additional services, such as SNAP navigation and housing and immigration support.

The EFPC is developing a strategic plan to improve volunteer management, capital resources, and logistics related to food sourcing. Short-term recommendations include training emergency food providers, while long-term goals focus on securing grant funding to sustain these efforts. The anticipated launch of an emergency food resource map and a Healthy Food Access Map aims to connect local farms with food providers and help residents locate healthy food options within their neighborhoods.

The meeting also featured a quarterly update from the county’s health officer, who reported on various health initiatives. The department had tackled issues such as West Nile virus and environmental health compliance, alongside efforts to combat public health misinformation. The department’s office of consumer protection conducted numerous inspections, while the solid waste and recycling division engaged thousands of students through educational programs. Hunger awareness initiatives were also highlighted, with ongoing assessments and training for community organizations focusing on trauma-informed approaches and wraparound services.

In the realm of education, the meeting recognized Bernardet Orsa as the 2024-2025 Passaic County Teacher of the Year. Orsa, a Spanish teacher at Manchester Regional High School since 2008, was honored for her extensive involvement in educational programs and her focus on cultural inclusivity. Her initiatives include the “Make a Difference Club” and the “Hispanic Fair,” which have positively influenced many students. In an emotional speech, Orsa expressed gratitude for the recognition and reflected on her personal journey. She emphasized the importance of educators who genuinely care for their students and shared that she once struggled as a student herself before discovering her potential.

Charles Karavayo was honored as the 2024-2025 New Jersey School Board Association Board Member of the Year. His 12-year tenure with the Bloomingdale Board of Education, including roles as president and committee chair, exemplified his dedication to education. Karavayo’s work in expanding the Unsung Heroes program and supporting community initiatives, such as the senior-student bridge program, received particular commendation. He expressed gratitude for the support of his family, educators, and the commissioners, recognizing the significance of his contributions to the community.

The meeting also addressed financial matters, with reports that the county sold $2.87 million in Chapter 12 college bonds at a favorable interest rate. The Chief Financial Officer received praise for their exemplary performance, highlighting the county’s financial strength. Additionally, the reappointment of the purchasing agent and the clerk to the board was acknowledged, with commendations for their proactive and solution-oriented approaches.

A capital ordinance authorizing the resurfacing of various county roads was discussed and adopted unanimously after a public hearing. The ordinance allocates $3.5 million for these improvements.

The commissioners expressed gratitude to voters who participated in the recent primary election and congratulated graduates across Passaic County. The upcoming Juneteenth celebrations were highlighted, emphasizing reflection, unity, and community involvement. A resolution regarding a contract for grant writing services was introduced and added to the consent agenda.