Paterson City Council Renames Clinton Street Park to Honor Community Advocate Janette Thompson
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
04/23/2024
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Recording Published:
04/23/2024
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Duration:
309 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Passaic County
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Towns:
Paterson
- Meeting Overview:
The Paterson City Council meeting addressed a variety of topics, but the most significant event was the unanimous decision to rename Clinton Street Park to Janette Thompson Park. This gesture acknowledges Thompson’s over 40 years of community service and her advocacy for the park’s development.
The resolution to rename the park was sponsored by a council member, with support voiced by several council members. They praised Thompson’s dedication to community activities, her long-standing service, and her tireless efforts toward improving the park for local residents. The renaming serves as a tribute to her commitment and the positive impact she has made on the community.
In addition to the park renaming, the council also tackled the renewal of a motion picture theater license for Fabian 8 Cinema. Despite rumors of the theater’s potential closure, the license was renewed after discussions about the cinema’s compliance with licensing requirements and its significance to the local economy. A representative for the cinema’s ownership addressed the council, focusing solely on the current licensing matter.
The meeting further recognized the contributions of several community members. Resolutions were passed to honor the life and legacy of Margaret Johnson, the city’s oldest living person, and to designate a street as “Ora Jane Bell Way” in recognition of Ora Jane Bell’s service to the community.
Additionally, the council discussed and unanimously approved a resolution memorializing Rachel Martinez McNeil, who tragically lost her life in a hit-and-run incident. Council members expressed their condolences and highlighted the need to remember individuals for their contributions to the community’s fabric.
Moreover, there was a serious discussion on a property assessment issue related to a large development project. Some council members expressed their concerns about granting tax reductions to large developments, which could potentially burden the regular homeowners with tax increases. They called for more transparency and detailed figures in property assessments. The item was tabled for further clarification and discussion.
The council also debated the prioritization of road repairs and authorized a contract for the resurfacing of specific roads. Some members showed frustration with the current state of the roads and suggested a shared service agreement with the county for maintenance. The need for additional resources and a comprehensive assessment of road conditions was highlighted.
During the public comments section, speakers addressed varied concerns, including the state of cleanliness in the city, the Peruvian Parade Inc., and upcoming community events. One speaker emphasized the importance of the parade’s organization and adherence to city laws. Others sought support for events and raised issues regarding traffic, environmental initiatives, and community gardens.
The meeting also touched upon issues of governance, with some council members debating the mayor’s office’s involvement in legal matters and tax appeals. There was a call for greater scrutiny of the administration’s role in these decisions.
Concerns about the community’s welfare were raised, with a speaker criticizing the city for not taking more action to address illegal evictions and high rents. Discussions on the importance of voting, civic engagement, and the upcoming election were also prevalent throughout the meeting.
The council’s agenda included a resolution authorizing a public health shared services agreement for tuberculosis control services, approved with a majority. They also approved a contract for maintenance services for Larry Doby Fields and discussed a memorandum of understanding for police funding, which was tabled pending further clarification.
In fiscal matters, the council approved an item related to the city’s budget and state fiscal year with a majority vote. They also designated a portion of Hamilton Street as Ruben “Hurricane” Carter and John Artis Way, passed ordinances for commercial loading zones, and entered into executive session to discuss pending litigation.
André Sayegh
City Council Officials:
Michael Jackson, Shahin Khalique, Alex Mendez (Council President), Ruby Cotton, Luis Velez (Council Vice President), Alaa “Al” Abdelaziz, Maritza Davila (Councilwoman At-Large), Dr. Lilisa Mimms (Councilwoman At-Large), MD Forid Uddin (Councilman At-Large)
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
04/23/2024
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Recording Published:
04/23/2024
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Duration:
309 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Passaic County
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Towns:
Paterson
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