00:00The meeting began with an announcement of a capital grant from the New Jersey Historic Trust for the restoration of the Robling Machine Shop, a significant historic property on South Clinton Avenue. The council discussed the importance of preserving the city’s architectural heritage and decided to solicit formal bid proposals from pre-qualified contractors specializing in historic preservation. A public pre-qualification hearing for prospective bidders is scheduled for April 1st, providing an opportunity for potential contractors to engage with city representatives and clarify any questions about the project.

35:57In a discussion, the council explored the use of surveillance cameras to enhance public safety, particularly in downtown and North Ward areas. This initiative aims to address rising crime rates without imposing a financial burden on taxpayers, as the funding will be sourced from the urban enterprise zone. Council members considered the effectiveness of cameras in preventing and investigating crimes, such as recent incidents on Chambers and Hamilton Avenues. The cameras are expected to aid law enforcement by capturing critical information, including vehicle license plates. While some council members championed the initiative for its potential crime deterrent effects, others questioned the use of city resources for what they viewed as responsibilities of private business owners. Director Lon clarified that the cameras would support broader crime-solving efforts, extending beyond shoplifting to address burglaries and other criminal activities.

11:13Another topic was the role of council members in zoning matters. The council deliberated on an ordinance concerning council member liaisons to boards and commissions, particularly the zoning and planning boards. There was a debate over whether council liaisons should be allowed to participate in discussions at these meetings. Concerns were raised about potential conflicts of interest and the perception of undue influence on these quasi-judicial bodies. Ultimately, the legal director advised council members to refrain from speaking at board meetings in their official capacity to maintain process integrity and avoid conflicts.

01:31:39The meeting also addressed community concerns during the public comment segment, where residents shared issues ranging from housing security and landlord intimidation to systemic corruption and unregistered rental properties. One resident, Candy Torres, criticized the city’s failure to register many rental properties, estimating a potential revenue loss of nearly one million dollars. She emphasized the negative impact of this oversight on tenants subjected to poor living conditions and unlawful eviction threats. Another resident, Lorraine Robinson, recounted her frustrating experience attempting to purchase a property from the city, expressing concerns about the fairness and transparency of the process.

01:01:50Additionally, the council discussed the ongoing challenge of homelessness in Trenton. Council members explored how the city could better allocate resources to address this issue, particularly in light of a stalled opioid settlement at the federal level. The director of Health and Human Services outlined available funding for rapid rehousing and street outreach programs, noting previous difficulties in hiring a mental health worker. The council acknowledged the complexities of assisting individuals experiencing homelessness, emphasizing the need for collaboration with non-profit organizations and other agencies.

46:03Further deliberations included the potential use of eminent domain in certain rehabilitation areas. Council members debated the necessity of such measures for addressing blighted properties, considering amendments to include eminent domain provisions in specific circumstances.