The most discussion centered on Maria Richardson’s appointment as the interim business administrator. Richardson, who has served the city for 18 years, outlined her extensive experience and qualifications, including a PhD in education and ongoing PhD studies in public administration. She highlighted her leadership roles in the department of recreation and health services, her management of over 400 staff members, and her proficiency in budget design and the procurement process. Richardson’s ability to secure over $25 million in grants during her tenure in recreation was particularly noted, alongside her preparedness for the business administrator role due to her public health experience during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Council members engaged with Richardson, inquiring about her previous experience and how it would aid her in the new position. She responded by emphasizing her management skills and budgetary expertise, which would be vital for her new role. Questions from the council included Councilman Joseph Harrison’s mention of a recent groundbreaking event at Unity Square Park, which Richardson connected to long-term planning efforts since 2018. Richardson affirmed her commitment to pursuing additional funding to enhance recreational facilities and programs, stressing the necessity of building relationships with external entities to achieve these goals.

Following Richardson’s introduction, Paul Harris was appointed as the interim director of recreation, natural resources, and culture. Harris, with over 14 years of service to the city, focused on the importance of personnel management and financial understanding in his previous roles. He detailed his experience in hiring and managing staff, ensuring candidates fit well within the city’s programs, and his engagement in budget analysis and payroll projections for future planning.

The council’s inquiries extended to the interim director of Health and Human Services, who expressed a commitment to addressing healthcare disparities and enhancing city services, particularly for the homeless population. The director emphasized the importance of collaboration with community leaders and organizations to improve health and human services for all Trenton residents.

Arch Liston’s appointment as interim director of Housing and Economic Development also garnered attention. Liston shared his extensive experience in public administration, redevelopment, and housing issues, including his familiarity with the Council on Affordable Housing (COA) and new legislation affecting housing. He discussed plans to expedite development processes and highlighted the potential for 600 market-rate units to revitalize downtown Trenton. Council members raised concerns about the city’s affordable housing crisis, to which Liston pointed out areas of focus like Hermitage Avenue and the need to gain developer trust to foster a business-friendly environment.

In addition to these appointments, the council approved the appointment of Corey McNair as a regular member of the rent stabilization board for a term from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2026. McNair, a civil servant and lifelong resident of Trenton, owns six properties and emphasized the importance of representation and fair rental practices. Council members praised McNair’s community engagement and leadership, unanimously approving his appointment.

Public comments highlighted various community concerns, including delayed grant applications, school traffic congestion and safety issues, and the alleged unfair termination of firefighter Taon Paige. Residents urged the council to address these issues, emphasizing the need for support and fair treatment of community members. Additionally, several speakers advocated for increased employment opportunities for marginalized youth, emphasizing the disproportionate violence affecting young Black males in the city.

The council also discussed upcoming community events, including National Night Out and various cleanups in different wards, aimed at fostering community engagement and addressing quality of life issues. Council members emphasized the importance of these initiatives in reconnecting the community, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In administrative matters, the council approved several ordinances and resolutions, including those related to stormwater control and the sale of city-owned property. Discussions also touched on the need for effective translation services to better serve the Latino community and ensure inclusivity in city communications.