The DOJ report’s findings were a focal point, prompting discussions among council members and residents alike. One resident, Tammy Duffy, criticized the Trenton Water Works for failing to meet critical water monitoring obligations, affecting 220,000 people, and called for accountability from the city’s leadership. This sentiment of frustration and demand for accountability resonated throughout the meeting, particularly concerning the police department’s conduct.

Council members acknowledged the severity of the DOJ report, which revealed longstanding issues of excessive force and misconduct. A council member expressed gratitude for the investigation, emphasizing the report’s importance in bringing systemic problems to light. Calls for the establishment of a Civilian Complaint Review Board were made to ensure accountability and oversight within the police force. There was a collective recognition of the “blue wall” within the department that discouraged individuals from coming forward with complaints.

These included disbanding certain police units and introducing mental health counseling alongside police responses. The Mayor highlighted a decline in homicides since the police director took office.

Public comments echoed the need for accountability and reform. Albert Clark from the Trenton NAACP called for the removal of Police Director Steve Wilson and the creation of a community-led police review board. He criticized Wilson’s leadership and the internal affairs division for their roles in perpetuating misconduct. The Trenton Police Officers Association, represented by Jason Woodhead, voiced support for reform while emphasizing the need to address staffing shortages and maintain officer morale.

The meeting also addressed the financial implications of the DOJ report’s findings. Concerns were raised about the costs associated with lawsuits and suspended officers, with a council member noting that suspensions, whether with or without pay, exacerbate staffing shortages and affect public safety. The Mayor reiterated the importance of in-person training to reinforce constitutional rights and the duty of officers to serve the community.

The discussion on police reform was underscored by broader concerns about public safety and community relations. One council member stressed the need for open forums for community members to express concerns and engage with police leadership. It was confirmed that the DOJ was working on scheduling such meetings to facilitate dialogue and transparency.

In addition to police reform, the council tackled other issues, including the acquisition and redevelopment of a downtown hotel. The Director of Housing and Economic Development introduced a proposal for the hotel, which has been closed since 2012 due to mismanagement. The plan involves issuing Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to identify potential private-public partnerships for its redevelopment, with a focus on restoring at least 100 hotel rooms alongside mixed-use developments.

Council members expressed excitement about the hotel’s potential to revitalize downtown Trenton but emphasized the need for careful vetting of developers to ensure a successful partnership. The importance of maintaining a liquor license for the hotel was also discussed, as it could impact the hotel’s operations and appeal to guests.

Public comments during the meeting further highlighted community concerns, including issues of drug use, traffic safety, and bureaucratic delays in city services. One resident described the daily occurrence of drug use at a laundromat, while another resident expressed frustration over the city’s slow response to her offer to acquire a property.

The Trenton Water Works scandal was another topic of discussion, with the Mayor addressing a fraudulent reporting incident by one employee. Improvements to the water department were noted, including new technologies for water testing and meter readings to enhance accountability and efficiency.