City Council

The Reorganization Meeting of the City Council of the City of Hackensack was held at City Hall, 65 Central Avenue, Hackensack, New Jersey, on Tuesday July 1, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. City Clerk Deborah Karlsson called the meeting to order and announced that the meeting was being held in accordance with the Sunshine Law, notice having been published according to law, with a copy on file in the City Clerk’s office, and a copy posted on the bulletin board in City Hall. Flag Salute Election Results City Clerk Deborah Karlsson read the following letter giving the results of the May 13, 2025 Municipal Election: “ July 1, 2025 Honorable City Council City of Hackensack 65 Central Avenue Hackensack, NJ 07601 Re: Election Results Honorable City Council: After a careful canvas of the votes, I do hereby issue the following statement of determination of the results of the Municipal Election held in the City of Hackensack, County of Bergen, State of New Jersey, on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, for the purpose of electing five (5) members of the City Council: Caseen Gaines 2,821 votes Agatha A. Toomey 2,807 votes Philip Carroll 2,784 votes Sonya M. Clark-Collins 2,783 votes Roberto Diaz 2,770 votes I further certify that the aforementioned were elected members of the City Council to take effect this first day of July, 2025, for a term of four years. Very truly yours, Deborah Karlsson, RMC City Clerk ” Oaths Administered to Elected Officials Phillip Carroll’s Oath of Councilman was administered by the City Clerk Deborah Karlsson. Sonya Clark-Collins’s Oath of Councilwoman was administered by the City Clerk Deborah Karlsson. Roberto Diaz’s Oath of Councilman was administered by the City Clerk Deborah Karlsson. Caseen Gaines’s Oath of Councilman was administered by the City Clerk Deborah Karlsson. Agatha Toomey Oath of Councilwoman was administered by the City Clerk Deborah Karlsson. 07/01/2025 1 Roll Call Ms. Karlsson called the roll: Councilman Carroll, Councilwoman Clark- Collins, Councilman Diaz, Councilman Gaines, Councilwoman Toomey were all present. Also present were City Clerk Deborah Karlsson, Deputy City Clerk Allison Saabye, and City Manager Vincent Caruso. Public Comment A motion to open the meeting to the public was offered by Councilman Gaines and seconded by Councilman Carroll. Doug Garofalo – It is wonderful that everyone is here. As a resident, we appreciate everything you do for us especially the intersection of Anderson and Prospect where we live. I greatly appreciate, and Agatha as well, everything each and every one of you in all your departments do for our City. We come home from work at night, relax, go to sleep at night, knowing we are safe. We wake up, see the sunshine and we know our sanitation or recycling is picked up in a timely manner well before dawn. Ladies and gentlemen respect all of our neighbors, waving, saying hi. All the Police and everyone in this City does a great job from the top to the bottom, all the paid employees, all the volunteers, and elected officials. It is so great all these years. I was a resident here and I was a resident again. When Agatha got the invitation to be on the ticket to run for City Council, I knew she had the support of each and every one of you if elected. From my heart, I appreciate all of you for what you will be doing in the next 4 years. I am proud of Agatha and all of you for stepping forward to do this. City Clerk, Deputy Clerk, each and every one of you. I am looking forward to everything that will happen over the next 4 years and all of our neighbors, residents in our neighborhood, everyone we speak to, they are very happy and excited for all of you. Best wishes. Rev. Carolyn Davis - I want to say congratulations not only to Council but to the City of Hackensack. I am proud today. I don’t know if anyone has watched the movie “Waiting to Exhale,” I think Hackensack has been waiting to exhale for long time. I am just overjoyed this morning. We are looking for great things. We will be patient, we know any new regime it takes time but we are here for you and here with you and we are proud of you. Thank you. Dr. Anita Rivers – I am a lifelong resident of Hackensack and this is truly a proud moment. If my grandmother were alive she would be shouting halleluiah. Let me say it for her – Halleluiah! I want to salute all of the essential workers who are in this room today because I know without your collective effort we would not be here today. In my community we have experienced extreme flooding and so this is going to be a mandate handed to our new Councilmembers to address and mitigate it. I thank all of you, police, fire, those who take care of the trash, those who do anything in support of the city. I thank you all so very much. God bless you. Stefani Pedone – I have been living in Hackensack 35 years, I was born and raised in Bronx but Hackensack has embraced me also. Agatha is my dearest friend. A little girl from Sicily comes to Hackensack and now is sitting up here and I couldn’t be more proud of you. It is truly the American dream. Phill, I don’t know all of you, but Phill is also a life long friend and I wish you all the best and God’s blessings and I know that Hackensack is moving forward in a wonderful way. No one else wished to speak. A motion to close the meeting to the public was offered by Councilman Gaines and seconded by Councilwoman Clark Collins. 07/01/2025 2 Council Comments Councilwoman Toomey – Thank you all so much for being here today. I am truly honored and humbled to stand before you to take on this new responsibility. This is not a personal milestone, it is a shared moment and I am incredibly grateful to share it with each of you. To everyone who made the effort to be here today, your presence means more than I can express. Thank you to my family, friends, and mentors for your unwavering support and to the dedicated employees, thank you. You are the heartbeat of this organization. As I step into this role, I do so with a deep respect for the responsibility it carries and with a sincere promise to lead with integrity, transparency and collaboration. I believe in our shared mission and we are committed to creating an environment where every employee feels seen and empowered to do their best work. Together we will face challenges, together we will pursue opportunities and together we will move forward stronger, smarter, and more unified. Thank you again for being here and I look forward to what we will accomplish together. Councilman Carroll – I am going to make it short and sweet. To our audience and voters out there, thank you for your support, thank you for your votes. I think Doug and Agatha said it, our essential workers police especially, I am kind of friendly with them, our fire dept and especially our DPW who get overlooked, we are going to make sure that they don’t because they do a great job. I want to thank Debbie and Allison for your support here, Vinny Caruso too, and to my partners here and I hope we have a nice four years. Thank you. Councilwoman Clark-Collins – I just wanted to thank each and every one of you and let you know that you are all appreciated and we will do our best to move the city forward and make sure things are done the way they should be done. Also, thank you to those who voted for us giving us an opportunity to serve you. I also wanted to mention the 4th of July celebration is coming up and we will be there and I hope to see you there. For those who will not be able to make it, I want to wish you a safe and happy holiday. Thank you. Councilman Diaz – Wow. What a moment. I am grateful to be here with many of the people who support us from the very first day, my family, my friends and all of you, the city staff who keep the city running every single day. This isn’t about me, it is not about you. It’s about us all together. I am ready to roll up my sleeves, work with you, learn from you, and give this city the energy and care it deserves. Let’s do this together and seriously thank you very much from the bottom of my heart. Councilman Gaines – I want to echo what everyone just said, thanks to friends, family, our support team, everyone sitting us up here with us, Deb, Allison, Vinny and the residents who put their trust in us. It’s a pleasure and honor to be here with everyone today. We want to speak directly to the incredible individuals who keep the City running day in and day out, the folks who ensure our residents are healthy, streets and buildings are safe, the people who process permits, manage our parks, answer every phone call for resident requests with patience and yes, even those who collect the taxes. Thank you to everyone. You are the backbone of the city. We know you work is not easy. We know your contributions often go unnoticed by the general public but please know this, your dedication and your expertise are absolutely essential to our city’s success. This City Council is committed to supporting you, listening to your insights and working collaboratively with you to make the city even better. Our goal is to best deliver for our residents and we can not do that without everyone in this room. Thank you for spending your lunch with us. A motion to fix the time to which to adjourn was offered by Councilwoman Toomey and seconded by Councilwoman Clark Collins. Be it so moved that 07/01/2025 3 when this meeting adjourns, it adjourn the meeting to 7:30PM today at the Hackensack High School Auditorium. The meeting was adjourned. The Reorganization Meeting of the City Council of the City of Hackensack was continued at Hackensack High School Auditorium, Hackensack, New Jersey, on Tuesday July 1, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. City Clerk Deborah Karlsson called the meeting to order and announced that the meeting was being held in accordance with the Sunshine Law, notice having been published according to law, with a copy on file in the City Clerk’s office, and a copy posted on the bulletin board in City Hall. Flag Salute – Hackensack Police Department Honor Guard and Sheriff Anthony Cureton National Anthem – Timothy Fischer Invocation - Fr. Thomas P. Quinn, Holy Trinity Catholic Church Rabbi Mendy Kaminker, Chabad of Hackensack Rev. Dr. Drew Kyndall Ross, New Hope Baptist Church Election Results City Clerk Deborah Karlsson read the following letter giving the results of the May 13, 2025 Municipal Election: “ July 1, 2025 Honorable City Council City of Hackensack 65 Central Avenue Hackensack, NJ 07601 Re: Election Results Honorable City Council: After a careful canvas of the votes, I do hereby issue the following statement of determination of the results of the Municipal Election held in the City of Hackensack, County of Bergen, State of New Jersey, on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, for the purpose of electing five (5) members of the City Council: Caseen Gaines 2,821 votes Agatha A. Toomey 2,807 votes Philip Carroll 2,784 votes Sonya M. Clark-Collins 2,783 votes Roberto Diaz 2,770 votes I further certify that the aforementioned were elected members of the City Council to take effect this first day of July, 2025, for a term of four years. Very truly yours, Deborah Karlsson, RMC City Clerk ” Oaths Administered to Elected Officials Caseen Gaines’s Oath of Councilman was administered by Daniel Carola, Esq. 07/01/2025 4 Agatha Toomey Oath of Councilwoman was administered by James Tedesco, III, Bergen County Executive. Roberto Diaz’s Oath of Councilman was administered by Mayor of Passaic, Hector Lora. Phillip Carroll’s Oath of Councilman was administered by Brian R. Martinotti, U.S. District Court Judge, State of New Jersey. Sonya Clark-Collins’s Oath of Councilwoman was administered by New Jersey Senator Gordon Johnson. Roll Call Ms. Karlsson called the roll: Councilman Carroll, Councilwoman Clark- Collins, Councilman Diaz, Councilman Gaines, Councilwoman Toomey were all present. Also present were City Clerk Deborah Karlsson, Deputy City Clerk Allison Saabye, and City Manager Vincent Caruso. Election of Mayor A motion to open the meeting for nominations for the four-year term of the Office of Mayor was offered by Councilwoman Toomey and seconded by Councilwoman Clark Collins. Councilwoman Toomey nominated Councilman Caseen Gaines for the position of Mayor of the City of Hackensack, seconded by Councilwoman Clark Collins. No other nominations were made. A motion to close the meeting for nominations for the four-year term of the Office of Mayor was offered by Councilwoman Toomey and seconded by Councilman Carroll. A motion to elect Councilman Caseen Gaines as Mayor was offered by Councilwoman Toomey, seconded by Councilman Carroll, and approved Councilman Carroll, Councilwoman Clark-Collins, Councilman Diaz, Councilman Gaines, Councilwoman Toomey City Clerk Deborah Karlsson announced the vote has carried and Caseen Gaines was now Mayor. Oath of Office Administered to Mayor Councilman Caseen Gaine’s Oath of Mayor was administered by Marlin G. Townes, III, with Marlin Townes, Jr, former Hackensack Mayor MAYOR CASEEN GAINES NOW PRESIDED OVER MEETING. Council Member Intro Second Yes No Abstain Absent Recused Clark- Collins X Carroll X X Toomey X Diaz X X Mayor Gaines X CITY OF HACKENSACK 07/01/2025 5  RESOLUTION NO. 324-25 RESOLUTION APPOINTING DEPUTY MAYOR WHEREAS, the Council of the City of Hackensack believes it is appropriate to appoint a Deputy Mayor to serve as the Council’s representative in matters when the Mayor is absent or has a conflict, and shall preside over any City Council meetings when the Mayor is absent or has a conflict; and, WHEREAS, there shall be no additional compensation paid for performing the duties and responsibilities of this position. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Hackensack that Agatha Toomey be and hereby is appointed Deputy Mayor of the City of Hackensack, effective immediately. Oath of Office Administered to Deputy Mayor (I) Councilwoman Agatha Toomey’s Oath of Deputy Mayor was administered by Jack Zisa, former Hackensack Mayor. Resolutions Council Member Intro Second Yes No Abstain Absent Recused Deputy Mayor Toomey X X Clark-Collins X X Carroll X Diaz X Mayor Gaines X CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 325-25 RESOLUTION QUALIFYING PROFESSIONAL SERVICE PROVIDERS AND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE CONTRACTS WITH SUCH QUALIFIED PROFESSIONALS WHEREAS, it has become necessary for the City of Hackensack (“City”) to engage various professional service providers; and WHEREAS, the City of Hackensack desires to appoint such professionals by a “fair and open” process pursuant to NJSA 19:44A-20.1 et seq.; and WHEREAS, the City issued and advertised requests for qualifications (“RFQ’s”) on the City’s website and in official newspapers on June 28, 2024; and WHEREAS, the qualification statements by professionals were submitted to the City by June 19, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.; and WHEREAS, the qualification statements were reviewed to determine applicants that have met the minimum professional, administrative and financial criteria described in the RFQ and based upon the totality of the information contained in the qualification statements, including information about the reputation and experience of each applicant and ability to best serve the needs of the City of Hackensack; and WHEREAS, the City finds it in its best interests to qualify certain professional service providers; and WHEREAS, the City finds it in its best interests to now assign certain professional service providers to various positions, matters and assignments. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the City of Hackensack, County of Bergen that the City finds it in its best interests to assign the following professional service providers to the following positions, matters and assignments: 07/01/2025 6 1) City Attorney The Law Offices of Richard Malagiere, P.C. 2) City Prosecutor Elsbeth J. Crusius, LLC 3) Alternate City Prosecutor Kellie M. Reyes, Esq. 4) Public Defender & Conflict Public Defender Faugno Weis Katcher Durate Navarro Gray, Esq. Friend & Wenzel 5) Labor Attorney Weiner Law Group Madelaine P. Hicks, Esq. 6) Bond Counsel Waters, McPherson, McNeill, P.C. Decotiis, Fitzpatrick, Cole & Giblin, LLC Gibbons PC 7) Tax Appeal Attorney Chasan, Lamparello, Mallon & Cappuzzo, P.C. John Schettino Boggia, Boggia and Betesh Donald J. Lenner, Esq. 8) Tax Appeal Appraiser McNerney & Associates 9) General Municipal Engineer Richard A. Alaimo Associates Remington & Vernick Engineers Boswell Engineering 10) Consulting Traffic Engineer Boswell Engineering 11) Consulting Environmental Engineer Richard A. Alaimo Associates Boswell Engineering 12) Municipal Auditor Wielkotz & Company, LLC NW Financial Group LLC 13) Redevelopment Attorney Decotiis, Fitzpatrick, Cole & Giblin, LLC Giblin & Gannaio 14) Affordable Housing Counsel Weiner Law Group Giblin & Gannaio 15) City Planner 16) City Architect Richard A. Alaimo Associates 07/01/2025 7  RSC Architects 17) Special Litigation Counsel Pfund McDonnell, P.C. Giblin & Gannaio King Moench & Collins, LLP John McCann, Esq. Waters, McPherson, McNeill, P.C. Decotiis, Fitzpatrick, Cole & Giblin, LLC Rainone Coughlin Minchello Weiner Law Group Chasan Lamparello Mallon & Cappuzzo, P.C. Keenan & Doris, LLC Gregg Paster & Associates Florio Kenny Raval LLP Dario, Albert, Metz, Eyerman, Canda, Concannon, Ortiz & Krouse Friend & Wenzel Norris Mclaughlin Pearce Law, LLC 18) Other Professional Services and Extraordinary Unspecifiable Services Neglia Engineering Associates Colliers Biancamano & Di Stefano PC Florio Kenny Raval LLP Chasan Lamparello Mallon & Cappuzzo, P.C. Omega Environmental Service, Inc. Keenan & Doris, LLC 19) Grants Managers/Writers Bruno Associates, Inc. 07/01/2025 8  Council Member Intro Second Yes No Abstain Absent Recused Deputy Mayor Toomey X Clark- Collins X X Carroll X X Diaz X Mayor Gaines X CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 326-25 RESOLUTION APPOINTING A CITY ATTORNEY WHEREAS, there exists in the City of Hackensack a need to perform the services of an City Attorney; and WHEREAS, such professional services will be rendered or performed by a person authorized by law to practice a recognized profession pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40A:9-139, et seq.; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the City of Hackensack that the Mayor and Council of the City of Hackensack, through the City Manager, are hereby authorized and directed to retain the services of Richard Malagiere, PC, 250 Moonachie Road, Suite 300A, Moonachie, New Jersey to perform the services of City Attorney. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Clerk be and is hereby directed to retain a copy of the contract for public inspection. Council Member Intro Second Yes No Abstain Absent Recused Deputy Mayor Toomey X Clark- Collins X X Carroll X X Diaz X Mayor Gaines X CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 327-25 RESOLUTION AWARDING PROFESSIONAL SERVICE CONTRACT TO ELSBETH J. CRUSIUS, ESQ., TO SERVE AS THE CITY’S MUNICIPAL PROSECUTOR WHEREAS, it is necessary for the City of Hackensack (“City”) to engage the services of a Municipal Prosecutor; and, WHEREAS, the Local Public Contracts Law, N.J.S.A. 40A:11-1 et seq. exempts professional service contracts from certain requirements of public bidding provided that a notice of the appointment is printed in a newspaper of general circulation within the municipality; and, WHEREAS, the City has utilized a competitive process to select a Municipal Prosecutor, in compliance with the “fair and open process” established by N.J.S.A. 40A:9-139:, by soliciting Requests for Qualifications; and, WHEREAS, responses to the Requests for Qualifications were received by the City Clerk and were publicly opened on June 19, 2025; and, 07/01/2025 9  WHEREAS, after due consideration, the City Council determined that the proposal submitted by Elsbeth J. Crusius, Esq. is the most advantageous to the City, all relevant factors considered; and, WHEREAS, the City Council desires to appoint Elsbeth J. Crusius, Esq. as Municipal Prosecutor effective July 1, 2025, and to serve for a one (1) year term; and, WHEREAS, the Chief Financial Officer has prepared and attached a certification of available funds to this resolution. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the City of Hackensack that Elsbeth Crusius, Esq. be and is hereby appointed Municipal Prosecutor for the period July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026; and, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor and City Clerk are hereby authorized to sign the agreement on behalf of the City, which shall be available for public inspection in the office of the City Clerk; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Clerk shall cause a notice of the adoption of this resolution to be printed in a qualified newspaper within ten (10) days after passage hereof. Council Member Intro Second Yes No Abstain Absent Recused Deputy Mayor Toomey X X Clark- Collins X Carroll X Diaz X X Mayor Gaines X CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 328-25 RESOLUTION AWARDING PROFESSIONAL SERVICE AGREEMENT TO NAVARRO GRAY, ESQ. FOR PUBLIC DEFENDER SERVICES WHEREAS, it has become necessary for the City of Hackensack (“City”) to engage the services of a Public Defender; and WHEREAS, N.J.S.A. 40A:11-1 et seq. exempts professional service services from certain requirements of public bidding provided a notice of the appointment be printed in a newspaper of general circulation within the municipality; and WHEREAS, the City did undertake a competitive process to select a Public Defender and solicited Requests for Qualifications on June 19, 2025; and WHEREAS, the City has determined that Navarro Gray, Esq. will be the most advantageous to the City, all relevant factors considered; and WHEREAS, the City has qualified Navarro Gray, Esq. as Public Defender for the year 2025/2026, as per Resolution #325-25 adopted on July 1, 2025; and WHEREAS, the City has received a Business Registration Certificate and Stockholder Disclosure from the firm prior to entering a contract; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mayor and Council of the City of Hackensack that said Public Defender be and is hereby appointed for the year 2025/2026; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor and City Clerk are hereby authorized to sign the agreement on behalf of the City, which shall be available for public inspection in the office of the City Clerk; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Clerk shall cause a notice of the adoption of this resolution to be printed in a qualified newspaper within ten (10) days after passage hereof. 07/01/2025 10  Council Member Intro Second Yes No Abstain Absent Recused Deputy Mayor Toomey X X Clark- Collins X Carroll X Diaz X X Mayor Gaines X CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 329-25 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE APPOINTMENT OF LIBRARY BOARD LIASON MAYOR CASEEN GAINES BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Hackensack that Mayor Gaines will serve as the Library Board liaison. Council Member Intro Second Yes No Abstain Absent Recused Deputy Mayor X Toomey X Clark- Collins X X Carroll X Diaz X Mayor Gaines X CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 330-25 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE APPOINTMENT OF PLANNING BOARD CLASS I MAYOR CASEEN GAINES AND CLASS III MEMBER DEPUTY MAYOR AGATHA TOOMEY BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Hackensack that Mayor Caseen Gaines be appointed as a Planning Board Class I member and Deputy Mayor Agatha Toomey be appointed as a Planning Board Class III member. Council Member Intro Second Yes No Abstain Absent Recused Deputy Mayor Toomey X Clark- Collins X Carroll X X Diaz X X Mayor Gaines X CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 331-25 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE APPOINTMENT OF A COUNCILWOMAN SONYA CLARK-COLLINS AS LIAISON TO THE RECREATION BOARD 07/01/2025 11  BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Hackensack that Councilwoman Sonya Clark-Collins is hereby appointed as Council Liaison to the Recreation Board. Council Member Intro Second Yes No Abstain Absent Recused Deputy Mayor Toomey X X Clark- Collins X X Carroll X Diaz X Mayor Gains X CITY OF HACKENSACK RESOLUTION NO. 332-25 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE APPOINTMENT OF COUNCILMAN ROBERTO DIAZ AS LIAISON TO THE CONDOMINIUM, COOPERATIVE AND MULTI UNIT RENTAL BUILDINGS ADVISORY BOARD BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Hackensack that Councilman Diaz is hereby appointed as Council Liaison to the Condominium, Cooperative, and Multi Unit Rental Buildings Advisory Board. Dignitary Comments & Presentations Commissioner Tom Sullivan along with members of the Bergen County Board of Commissioners County Clerk John Hogan and Deputy Clerk Steve Chung County Executive James Tedesco Cole Touhey, Congressman Gottheimer’s Deputy District Director Public Comment A motion to open the meeting to the public was offered by Councilman Carroll and seconded by Councilwoman Clark Collins. Michael Wildes, Englewood Mayor – I want to congratulate the newly minted mayor, deputy mayor and governing body. They say change is infectious and I looked up that Hackensack’s nickname is the city in motion but it was recently nicknamed by the downtown “the sack.” Someone this past week came forward and said we should follow suit and call Englewood “the wood.” I am going to go off the record with you one day and see if we can effect some other change. All I can say is we are two of the three great cities in this county. We will have your back. We wish you God speed a lot of love to you and your family. May you serve these wonderful residents nobly. Jennier Harris, President of Board of Education – I am a lifelong resident of Hackensack, parent, teacher, advocate for children with special needs and President of the Hackensack Board of Education. As a lifelong resident, I am proud to see genuine individuals who have made and will continue to make a positive impact on our community represented here today. I wouldn’t be a true Comet if I didn’t shout out class of 2003 and all of Hackensack alumni here. I am excited to be in a room full of people who are committed to uplifting our city especially by investing in its future in educating our students. I speak on behalf of the Hackensack Board of Education when I say we look forward in 07/01/2025 12 beginning what will be the best collaboration our city will ever see, working together to support all the members in the community. Congratulations. Leila Amirhamzah, Trustee Hackensack Board of Education – I really just want to echo President Harri’s comments and congratulate all give of you. I am proud to not only be a resident of Hackensack but I look forward to working with you to improve the schools, our community. I hope everyone can soak in the moment tonight, looking around the auditorium tonight and seeing so many people from this diverse city, I am really proud to be a resident, wishing you all the best. Congratulations. Kenneth Martin – Five generations here in Hackensack. My grandmother on both sides, grandfathers would be very proud to see you up there. It is not a fluke that you are having this ceremony here. The reason why is we will be working together, very closely. There are a lot of things that we will be doing together and bringing the City of Hackensack and School Board together. We will collaborate with you, bring new things like new school. We will be asking for your help with a lot of things and we know you are there for us and we will be there for you. Good luck, congratulations, and we will see you next month at the meeting. Randy Glover – You did it! Deb Geddis, Caroolyn, you came together and took them over the line. You made it happen. The town stuck together. Caseen, your whole family has pitched in to help with what the town needs. I think you know what I mean. I appreciate you guys and good luck. Rosetta Gaines – I am the grandma. This is a proclamation from my church. “In honor of the appointment of Mayor Caseen Gaines, grandson of Elder Rosetta Gaines, beloved member of the Capitol Presbyterian Church of Harrisburg, PA, today we gather in reverent celebration to acknowledge a moment of great significance in the life of our broader community. Whereas, Mayor Caseen Gaines has been appointed to serve with distinction as the Mayor of Hackensack, NJ, taken on a sacred trust to lead with wisdom, justice, and humility. Whereas, while he may not be a member of our congregation, he is forever connected to this household of faith through his family lineage being the cherished grandson of Elder Rosetta Gaines, a faithful matriarch whose devotion, dignity, and spiritual strength has been a cornerstone of Capitol Presbyterian Church. Whereas, the values that have shaped Mayor Gaines includes perseverance, honor, and service that he deeply rooted in his faith and example of his grandmother whose life continues to bear fruit in the lives of her children and her grandchildren. Therefore, Capitol Presbyterian is proclaimed to lift its voice in recognition and joy honoring this appointment with pride and prayer. May the God who guided Moses through the wilderness, stood with Joshua in the face of battle, and anointed David to lead with a shepherd’s heart, walk with Mayor Gaines in each step of his way. May his decision be rooted in wisdom that seeks the common good. His leadership marked with integrity that uplifts the most vulnerable. His legacy plant seed of hope and usher lasting transformation not only for today but for generations to come. Given this day, first day of July in the year of our Lord 2025, we speak with this blessing aloud in the name of Jesus Christ. We sincerely respect and abided faith on behalf of the session and members of Capitol Presbyterian Church, Reverend Martha White and Elder Clerk of Session, James Casease.” Congratulations, sweetheart. Anthony Zisa – I had to negotiate with a toddler to go to bed and it really gave me perspective tonight because that is what this is all about. That is why we are all here, family, friends, neighbors, community. For so long, the past 10 or more years, we have been told that the state of this community can be measured by the number of buildings going up. The reality is that in no way matters, what matters are the lives of the people in those buildings, the lives of the residents of this town, people who day in and day out do mundane things that are part of being a community. I am happy that tonight we get to celebrate 07/01/2025 13 a Council that is going to look at this city not as a collection of places but as a community of people. I am just so proud to say that. I do want to personally congratulate a man I have known for a quarter of a century now, and who I have worked alongside almost two decades, Mayor Caseen Gaines. I am so proud of you and everything you have accomplished. You are the kind of person, despite me being two years older than you, I can look up to as a role model. Congratulations. Thank you. Police Chief Michael Antista – As your Chief of Police and Hackensack Comet, I want to extend my congratulations to Mayor Gaines, Deputy Mayor Toomey, Councilman Carroll, Councilwoman Clark Collins, and Councilman Diaz on a successful election to the City Council. Your victory represents the trust and confidence our community has placed in your leadership. Today marks an important moment for our City, time to turn the page and work together as one team, one family. The challenges we face, all of us, elected officials, law enforcement, and community members, unite with a shared vision of our city’s future. As we move forward, we as the Police Department, are committed to working alongside this Council to prioritize what matters most, strengthening our community trust through meaningful conversation and partnership, caring for our dedicated employees who serve this community every day by embracing wellness and enhancing public safety and efficiency. The work ahead won’t always be easy but I am confident that together we can build a safer, stronger, more connected community. I look forward to collaborating with each of you in the months and years ahead. Congratulations again and thank you for your commitment to serving this great City of Hackensack. Lt. Anthony DiPersia, President PBA Local 9A – On behalf of the Hackensack PBA 9A, I want to extend our sincere congratulations to each and every one of you. Your victory reflects the will of the people and we look forward to working together in the best interest of our city. We hope this new chapter bring a renewed spirit of collaboration. Our officers take great pride in serving Hackensack with integrity and professionalism, and we are committed to ensuring the safety and well being of every resident. We are optimistic that mutual respect and shared purpose will define our relationship moving forward. Once again, congratulations and we look forward to building a better Hackensack. Jason Some – I know you are itching to use that gavel but please give me a minute to congratulate you. One of the things I had the honor of doing in my life along with Debbie Keeling-Geddis, another former Councilwoman, was to be in the room and announce you as the ticket that was going to run to take back our City. I will tell you it was an honor for me but where it really hit me was earlier today at 12 o’clock when so many employees came up and were listening to your comments and were smiling and were excited to see the city turn the page and create this new chapter. When you look at the former Mayor and Council, all of the elected officials in this room, who have said on more than one occasion that they are excited to work with you, it is absolutely true. I will tell you there is nothing that I have done up until this point that makes me prouder than helping to get you all elected and I wish you the best of luck. I want to see a city where we can be proud to be a Hackensack Comet, proud to bleed blue and gold, and I know each and every one of you do it whether you were born in the city, whether you are from the city or if you moved here, you will all do a terrific job and we can’t wait to see what you bring to our city next. Thank you. Mr. Santos – Hackensack has been my home for the last 43 years and been working for many elected officials in the city. Tonight, we are celebrating here that we have the Council to represent all the residents of Hackensack. I want to congratulate you. You represent the best of this area. Thank you so much. Jennifer Osbourne – Congratulations to everyone. It is awesome for Hackensack. I am prouder than ever for my city. I first came to Hackensack 07/01/2025 14 when my parents came here from Jamacia in 1974. I met Sonya when we ran track for Hackensack High School around 1977. I was a skinny little shy girl from Jamacia. We ran track, we left track practices after being coached by the honorable Edwin Church and Charlene Scott. I am a proud graduate of Jackson Avenue Elementary School in Hackensack, Middle School, and Hackensack High School class of 1981. I met Sonya around 1977 and we have been friends since. I will tell you about Sonya. Her character marks faithfulness, advocacy, kindness. Most of all, Sonya advocacy, she is also trustworthy. I have been through ups and downs and Sonya has always been there through it all. We continue to be friends because of her character, kindness, advocacy. I used to go to the store with her and she would always stand up for herself in the store. Customer service! May I speak to the manager please! I see this was a making of Sonya to not only stand up for herself, she advocated for herself first and now she is here to advocate for you guys. Congratulations! Amy Bollock, First Vice President NAACP – I am joined tonight by our President Courtney Johnson Suffern and our E-Board Member Dr. Ross. I am here to extend congratulations to the Hackensack Unites team. We have had the privilege and honor of collaborating with Dr. Ross and John Hogan on getting early voting in Hackensack. When it was brought to our attention that there was some obstacles, we advocated for accessibility and accountability. I want to wish Hackensack Unites team congratulations. You are an example of leadership who put the people first. I want to congratulate the people of Hackensack for making your voice heard by exercising your right to vote. I encourage everyone to go out and tell someone that every vote counts. Timothy Hoffman – Lifelong resident of Hackensack and proud Comet. Mayor Gaines and members of the City Council, congratulations and thank you for bringing us this moment of unity for the City. This feels like Hackensack. It has been a long time coming. We look forward to your leadership and very different approach to governing where city employees are supported and the whole city may benefit through the collaboration that everyone is talking about tonight. We are on to a new and very exciting chapter in Hackensack’s history and thank you all for stepping up to serve. We wish you the best over the next four years. We know you are great people who love Hackensack and are going to bring us all together. Thank you. Cecil King – Lifelong resident, former graduate of the best class at Hackensack High School 1991. From then on, the High School went straight up and skyrocketed. First of all, I would like to congratulate all the members of the City Council. Congratulations on doing a great job and sticking to your message with that message being united and as you can see here tonight, there is all walks of life in here for one cause and that is to follow your slogan and we want to be united. I also want to congratulate Councilman Diaz as bring one of the first Dominicans. When my family first came here in 1975 there were only like 5 or 6 Dominican families here and we all knew each other and now you represent us. Mr. Gaines, I was his History teacher. The lessons I taught, you probably remember, there was no bullying, but hopefully the lessons I told you I prepared you with a lot of thick skin and just remember we are here to serve and whatever you need, we are here. I am happy to see a lot of other former graduates here. It makes me so happy to see our former students come back and take place of the new people and you are the new blood. You are the future that is going to move what moves us forward. Honestly, I look at it now, I am that old that the Mayor is my former student, and I still got kids in elementary school. Thank you so much. Here we are as one family and one cause to move us forward. Mabel Bonita, Vice President of Hackensack Junior Soccer Association – I am here to represent HJSA but also the largest soccer club in Hackensack, Royals FC. As a Hackensack alumni class of 2004, I have two daughters in High School. I was a student and now I am a mom, now I am part of the community 07/01/2025 15 greatly involved. We are here to represent the kids. I am so looking forward to collaborate with you. The kids have been waiting for this. They are excited to have the field back, touch the ball, train, and be with the community. I am here ready to collaborate and am ready to have this program as big as it can possibly be. Thank you. It is not going to be a battle anymore, it’s going to be unity. Mark McCart, President of Hackensack Junior Soccer Association – It is so nice. This is a great night for the City of Hackensack. We are looking forward to working with the Mayor and Council that have integrity, that actually care, that grew up in the City, that understand this City, and listen to this City and the people in it. You have no idea how ecstatic we are. Congratulations and thank you. Abylash George, Campus Director of Eastwick College – I have been employed in Hackensack for 20 years. I am a resident of Little Ferry. It is my distinct honor to extend heartfelt congratulations to our newly elected Mayor Gaines, Deputy Mayor Toomey, and the Council. I also want to convey the warm congratulations from Tom Eastwick himself. Your dedication and commitment to public service and for the future of Hackensack is commendable. I have heard a lot of stories but I am looking forward to getting to know you. We at Eastwick College, located right on Moore Street and are excited to work alongside each of you. We believe that a strong partnership between our educational institution and the City’s leadership is crucial for fostering growth, innovation, and prosperity in Hackensack. We look forward to collaborating with you on initiatives that will not only advance education, but will also contribute to the overall well-being and betterment of our community. May God bless your efforts and guide you in all your endeavors as you serve the great City of Hackensack. Here’s to a productive and successful term. We are eager to see the positive impact of your leadership on our City. Congratulations to the new Hackensack Unites leadership. Emily Limma, Former High School Student – I would like to congratulate all five councilmembers, especially Mr. Gaines. We went from bullying you in the classroom about the elections and saying how you always pop up on our Instagram feed to actually becoming Mayor. On behalf of the students, we are very proud of you and of what you have become. Hackensack is in great hands. Hackensack not only is getting a new Mayor but also a leader and hope. I am very proud and congratulations. Mark Stein, Vice President Board of Education – I have been very fortunate. I have lived in this community as of today 78 years. I have to tell you now I have sat where you are sitting now, I am now Vice President of the Board of Education and we look from you to you a lot of shared services. I know we can provide the city and I know the city can provide to us. We look forward to a long and collaborative working relationship. Thank you. Nancy Weuste – Congratulations Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Council members. I wanted to take a moment to recognize somebody incredible special, my sister. Many of you know her as our newly elected Deputy Mayor, but to me she is so much more. She came to this country as a 9 year old immigrant not speaking a word of English and yet through sheer determination, strength, and heart, she has grown into a respected leader in the very City we grew up in, Hackensack. Her journey has been nothing short of remarkable. As the welfare director of Hackensack, she has dedicated her life to helping others, always putting their needs before her own, always leading with compassion and integrity. She never needed a spot light, just a chance to serve. To me, she is not just my sister but my second mother, she practically raised me and everything I am today is because of the example she set. Her honesty, work ethic, and the deep respect people have for her is something you can’t teach. It is who she is at her core. I want to wish her and the entire Council, the best four years ahead. 07/01/2025 16 Hackensack is so lucky to have her as Deputy Mayor and I am even luckier to call her my sister. Andrea Oates Parchment, Acting Superintendent of Schools – I am a lifelong resident of Hackensack. I am going to be short as I know our conversations will be ongoing as we unite together but I want to say to Mayor Gaines and the entire Council, congratulations, and our students said it best, what I feel is hope for moving forward and I look forward to working with you. I am very proud especially to have our Mayor a teacher here. I am so proud of you, you are such a role model to our staff and students and I really look forward to this new journey with you. I am so excited. Thank you. John Peters, Main Street Business Alliance – On behalf of the Main Street Business Alliance and our hundreds of member businesses, we congratulate you all tonight. We celebrate this new chapter and we reaffirm our commitment to working together towards a strong, prosperous and united city where the local businesses and the community grow hand in hand. We wish you great success in this new phase of leadership. Good luck and God bless. We look forward to working with you. Christine Laval – I want to congratulate my cousin, the Mayor, and his regime. I have been a lifelong resident of Hackensack. Actually, this year is the 1970’s alumni’s 55th anniversary of graduating. I am really proud of you and I am hoping for a very prosperous and healthy, happy, and that we all are united together. Mike Melfi, former Hackensack Mayor – I used to have your job. I want to congratulate all of you on your election. The people of Hackensack spoke loudly on election day. They want the City to go in a different direction and we are excited to support you in doing that. If there is anything I can do, I am always willing to help and the rest of the community is behind you as well. I wish you the best of luck and hope for all the best. Karen Sasso, former Hackensack Mayor – I too used to have your job. I would like to offer my congratulations to all of you. I am not a Comet but I raised three Comets, with the help of this community that we call the City of Hackensack. Like former Mayor Melfi said, I offer myself in any way I may be helpful. Should the need arise, we are both here for you. Carmen Moro – Councilman Diaz is such a great leader, great professor and a great human being. Congratulations Professor and congratulations everyone. It is a pleasure for me to be here and wish all the best for you and for you colleagues. Thank you. Sheryl Bullock Hannah – Thank you thank you thank you for all your hard work. I grew up with Caseen’s mom Bernie. I grew up around the corner. I grew up with Sonya Clark and I see all the hard work everyone put in. My family has been in Hackensack and the surrounding communities for over 200 years and I am excited to tears. Thank you. Darling Bode – I want to extend my congratulations to the new Mayor and City Council. Tonight, I heard about hope and prosperity which is why I voted for you. I came here seven years ago from Jersey City but you gave me hope for the City. I saw a lot of prospective in the City and I saw a lot of potential that the City of Hackensack can bring to the new generation and to also our loved ones, elderly, pregnant women and children. they are the ones that will move forward, but also the men and women educators that are behind working every single day doing the best they can to protect the public. As a public health official myself, not from Bergen County, I thank you so much because after many years of research we know that public health leads to a better leadership and to have wonderful leaders that we can eventually learn from you guys. Thank you. 07/01/2025 17 Everett Garnto Jr, Mayor of Garfield – I want to say congratulations. I have heard other speakers say that they had your job. I do have your job for the City of Garfield. I want to congratulate your entire team on a well-deserved victory. When myself, Deputy Mayor Kane, and three other candidates ran, we were fortunate enough to get three of the five of us in so we have the majority. A lot of things parallel between Hackensack and Garfield. I believe you wanted to stop overdevelopment, the PILOTs. We had that in Garfield. One specific builder, I am not going to mention their name but I am sure you know, seven PILOTs to one builder. You are talking 100 apartments in each building. That is excessive. We are also instituting a ton of quality of life initiatives for our city. I want to wish you nothing but the best of luck and I look forward to speaking with your entire staff whenever we can get together. Good luck. Kevin Kane, Deputy Mayor Garfield – It is always awkward going after the same person in the same city as you because you are just repeating what they said. On behalf of the City of Garfield, which is the third city in Bergen County, I wanted to congratulate you all on the election. People of Hackensack have asked for change, transparency, and leadership and they got it. Congratulations. Stepping into public service is not easy. It takes courage, patience, and the ability to smile while getting roasted in the comment section on Facebook non-stop. So, a lot of credit is due. We ran on a lot of the same campaign promises and ideas as Hackensack and we are excited to work with you on shared goals like safety, smart development and figuring out how to stop all the luxury buildings and PILOT programs from popping up all over like weeds. Finally, Hackensack has the Sack and Englewood has the Wood, and Garfield all we seem to have is traffic. We are the third largest city in Bergen County and still have no nickname. We are basically like the third wheel in a Bergen County love triangle that is hoping someone invites us to the party. If anyone has a nickname, please see me. In all seriousness, wishing you a great term and if you need anything we are just one awkward group text message away so feel free and good luck. Alexis Collins, Daughter of Sonya Clark Collins – I want to say congratulations to the entire City Council. I was also a former student of Mayor Gaines. I want to say especially to my mommy, I love you so much. I am really proud of you. You are my inspiration. She is so passionate about the City and the community. She always talks to me about different changes she wants to make. You guys are in great hands and I love you so much. Congratulations again to you guys and I am wishing you the best of luck. Thank you. Toney Jackson – I am a Hackensack resident for my life and a teacher in Hackensack schools. So many people said everything so well and so eloquently. In the midst of what feels to me and many like a scary anxiety filled four years politically on the larger scale, it is exciting to have a hope filled four years starting today. Also, to see all of the excitement, to see this turn out, as a teacher to know that our students are seeing the excitement, the energy, the engagement, the civic engagement, this is what we need them to see because this is what we need them to become. Please keep this up. Lastly, I know we have a former Parker parent on the Council, I know we have a former Parker student, I would be remiss if I didn’t pass on words from our recently passed and transitioned principal, Lillian K. Whitaker, in saying congratulations and thank you for committing to do your personal best for all of us. Thank you. Hernando Rivera, Bergenfield Councilman – I am a Councilman in Bergenfield, NJ. I want to express something that happened about 13 or 14 years ago since I have been a Councilman in Bergenfield. I see unity, to be together is the key to have success and to work for the community. I want to congratulate the family, the friends, girlfriends, wives, nieces, cousins, grandpas, grandmas, and all of you. Without them, you can not be sitting there. They have been the rock stars for you. They are supporting you guys. Now your missing if you decide to accept it, that mission is not defraud all of them. They are going to 07/01/2025 18 be watching you. The community of Hackensack is going to be watching you guys. I know because I feel the heart of one of you that you are trying to do the best for the community. Mayor Gaines, Agatha, Sonya, Phill, and my good friend Roberto Diaz. When we were professors together at Fairleigh Dickenson University, we also teach some history, some math, and you were asking me things, how do you do this? How do you do this in your town? I am here to say that to all of you not just Roberto, if my experience can help, he has my phone number. Anything I can do to guide you, I can be there for you guys. God, give you the wisdom to continue to give the best for this community. Don’t forget what the professor says to you, Mayor, he was the history professor to you. You know the history of this town. Don’t repeat that history and keep Hackensack going forward. God bless you everyone. Domingo Almonte, Bergenfield Councilman – I am also a Councilman in Bergenfield. I am also a Dominican. Dominicans are taking the seats. I heard all night long, unity, that’s the key. I want to finish with this quote. As an elected official, you can do things that they can not do. They can do things that you can not do. Together, you can do big things. Thank you. Loriana – I call Hackensack my second home. I had 23 years working in Hackensack and I remember when I had the opportunity to start working in Hackensack for the County, child department. Up to this day, I always say thank you God every night to the person who gave me the opportunity to work in Hackensack in this position, giving me the opportunity to bring food to my table for my children being a widow. Tonight I hear a lot of the word hope, and I saw in this row over here a lot of hope. I see in that row over there a lot of hope. In this row over here are people who were the general counsel of the Dominican Republic that came to see Roberto. We all came here to see all of you but I am more proud of seeing a unity of inclusion. Keep it like that as teamwork because Hackensack is the City of Bergen County and Bergen County is one of the biggest and richest counties in the United States. Today in the United States we need unity and we need inclusion and we need resilience and we need to keep together because we all are immigrants. We all are of immigrant descendants including the President of the United States. Greg Liosi, Artistic Director of the HACPAC – Go HACPAC! I am also working tonight. I wanted to say a couple things regarding tonight and something that is really appropriate and fitting and I want to make sure we acknowledge. I am the graduating class of 1990. I am the father of Cosette class of 2020. I am the son of Peggy and George Liosi, class of 61 and the grandson of George Sommville class of 1917. What I wanted to make sure everyone understands is that the rest of the State, every other town, every other city in the State of New Jersey does not get it. They have no idea what it is to be a Comet and to grow up and be raised in a community of this much diversity and this much cultural mixture. They don’t understand why our City is not burning down and why it’s just thrived for so long. All of you sitting up on this stage epitomizes why that is so. We see it in you citizens coming together and actually making our City even better. We hope to work together with that because this is what they don’t understand but when they see you they will understand. This is why Hackensack thrives. Importantly, I want to acknowledge how fitting it is for you Mr. Gaines, to have this honor take place in this very room and on this very stage and on these very boards that you performed on when you were a child here at Hackensack High School. This very stage that you have inspired for decades, thousands of students, including my daughter, as the Director of the Theater Program here at Hackensack High School, right here in this very room, and that your theater company Hackensack Theater Company has also tread the boards on this very stage. It is all fitting and appropriate that this happens here and it makes this night just that much more magical. Thank you all for the time and thank you so much, I look forward to working with you. Mark Edwards – I am your cameraman, well, I am the backup. I am a personal trainer in this dear city. I am also a coach in this dear city. It is a beautiful 07/01/2025 19 thing to see tonight. Everybody, as they said, unity, the factor of hope. Instead of seeing it, I know everyone in here more than likely can feel it, right? That’s a big thing. I hope anyone from neighboring towns that are here embrace this feeling and take it back with you. Hackensack is not closed off. As many have said, we are a vast diverse community and it is very true, we stand together. When it is fake, you know it is fake. You can tell and I am sure local Comets, local families will tell you and out people if they are not part of this unity. We encourage, I encourage you to make sure and do so because you want what is real. You want love, you want unity, you want hope, you want family. This is a representation of that, and peace. You get a sense of peace tonight. The feeling that I hope everybody has especially you all representing us and I am proud to say that you guys are representing us, I hope this feeling continues and it doesn’t die. You are appreciated. We look forward, I am sure we all can say that from the Police Department all the way to anybody else. We are looking forward to what is to come. Thank you. No one else wished to speak. A motion to close the meeting to the public was offered by Councilwoman Clark Collins and seconded by Councilman Carroll. Council Comments Deputy Mayor Toomey – I stand before you today with a full and grateful heart. Thank you. Thank you for believing in me and our team Hackensack Unites. Because of your voices, your votes, and your vision for a better future, I have the honor of serving as your Deputy Mayor. This wasn’t just an election; it was a statement. You made it clear that Hackensack is ready for unity, for progress, and for leadership that truly listens. To every resident who showed up, please know that this win belongs to all of us. We heard your concerns, we understand the challenges, and we are committed to building the Hackensack you deserve. We’re here to bring people together, to move past old grudges, and to focus on what really matters – safer streets, honest government, responsible development, and a city that works for every neighborhood, not just a few. I would like to thank our County Executive, James Tedesco, and our former Mayor, John Zisa, for swearing me in tonight. I am very honored. I would like to thank everyone here tonight, my family, my friends, my boyfriend Doug, who have all been beside me through this journey and I promise Doug that I will start cooking dinners again soon. I would like to thank my fellow Council members and the volunteers who poured their time and hearts into this campaign. Most of all, I thank the people of Hackensack. this is just the beginning and I promise to lead with integrity, transparency, and with your voices at the center of everything we do. Together, we are Hackensack Unites and together we will build a City where we can all be proud. Thank you and let’s get to work. Councilwoman Clark-Collins – Thank you all for coming out as we transition into our new roles as your City Councilmembers. To say that the last few months have been a whirlwind would be an understatement. As I knocked on your doors, I enjoyed the conversations regarding our beloved City. I want to thank you for putting your trust in us. We heard your concerns and prayerfully we will be able to address them. I want to thank the following people for helping me along this journey and sticking with me through the end whether you signed a petition to get us on the ballot, put up a lawn sign, made a donation to the campaign, made phone calls, encouraged others to vote, or gave moral support, I want you to know that I don’t take your support lightly. I will do my best in my role as your City Councilwoman to make sure that we do what is best for the residents and employees for the City of Hackensack. Special thanks goes to my children and my entire family, my church family of St. Cyprien’s Episcopal Church, and to my friends and neighbors. Thank you to the members of the Work Group of Hackensack who encouraged me to run. To our campaign support team, to the volunteers who helped us walk door to door to distribute our pamphlets, and a very special thanks to my partner Israel for giving up his time during the campaign to knock doors and attend the 07/01/2025 20 events with me. Thank you to the voters who came out on that cold and rainy day of May 13 to cast your vote for the Hackensack Unites team. Last but not least, to my new Council family, it is an honor to sit up here with you and I look forward to working with you for the next four years. Councilman Carroll – First, I would like to thank our clergy Father Quinn and the rest of the pastors and priests here today. To all of our VIP dignitaries for coming out and showing support, it was important to us so thank you. Most important, my family, without you I wouldn’t be here, for giving me the time to knock on doors with my new family, make phone calls, meet new people. I think the last six months was an adventure but we are here. Thank you to everyone who voted for us. It was a landslide. I think we are going to do great things in four years. I look forward to working with everybody for the next four years, getting Hackensack back on track, making sure the builders pay their fair share, and let’s also keep some green space for our children and stop thinking about building. Thank you. Councilman Diaz – First, I want to extend a warm greeting to the elected officials who have joined us this evening from various cities across the great State of New Jersey and New York. I would especially like to express my gratitude to Hector Lora, the honorable Mayor of the City of Passaic, who accepted the honor of administering my oath today. I also want to take a moment to thank the incredible people of Hackensack. You showed up. You spoke up and your placed your trust in a new kind of leadership. One that listens, learns, and leads with heart. I am deeply honored and truly humbled by your confidence in me. I wouldn’t be here tonight without the love and example of my mother. She passed away two years ago, but her strength, wisdom, and guidance are still with me every single day. This moment is hers as much as mine. To my amazing wife Virginia, thank you for your patience, your support and for tolerating all those night campaign meetings when I said I would be home in 30 minutes and showed up 3 hours later with empanadas and excuses. To my children, Paola and Roberto Jr., thank you for always being in my corner. I am proud of you every day. To my supportive friends, to the Hackensack Unites campaign team, and my fellow elector colleagues Caseen, Agatha, Phill, and Sonya, we did it. Thank you for the hard work, laughter, and the endless supply of coffees and hope. Our mission is to make Hackensack a city where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued, no matter where you are from, who you love, how you pray, or what your story is. Inclusion, diversity, and equality aren’t just buzzwords to us; they are promises. To the people of Hackensack, this is your seat, your voice, your city. I may be holding the mic tonight, but I promise I will always be listening. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Mayor Gaines – This is a celebratory event bur I am going to ask for everyone to take a brief moment of silence for the five members of our Hackensack Fire Department who lost their lives on this day in 1988. I am here today because of many, especially our amazing campaign team and everyone who jumped in to help by gathering your neighbors and inviting us into your living rooms and backyards. We could not have done this without you. Agatha, Phil, Roberto, and Sonya we will be seeing a lot of each other over the next four years, and I look forward to doing good work with you. I know everyone here cares passionately about Hackensack and we will always prioritize the well-being of our neighbors in this community that we love. To my family, who came across four different states today, they are also why I am here. They have always supported and encouraged me to be my best authentic self. What I am trying to say is if I am not your cup of tea, blame them. I love you and I thank you for being here today. I must also thank my amazing wife Johanna who after 23 years of knowing and loving each other, still impresses me every single day. I am excited to be on this journey with you. Thanks to my lifelong friend Danny Carola for swearing me in as a Councilperson and Marlin Townes III and Mayor Marlin Townes Jr. for swearing me in as Mayor of Hackensack. As we said, in 2005, Marlin Townes Jr. became Hackensack’s first black Mayor, a truly 07/01/2025 21 historic moment. Here we are 20 years later and I am honored to be the second, and God willing, I will be the first to hold the seat for a full term. Roberto Diaz, as has been said, is our first Dominican-American Councilman and this is the most diverse team that has ever been elected in the history of this City. That is something that we all should celebrate. I am incredibly honored and humbled to serve as Hackensack’s Mayor. We understand the immense trust you have placed in us and now we must get to work. These months have shown me that our community thrives when we unite. Too many are being priced out and for those who remain in Hackensack, feels less and less like home. Our role as your City Council is to restore and build upon that sense of community. You have already shared so many great ideas. I don’t know how so many of you found my phone number. That shows that you care as much about this community as we do and that you are willing to put in the work like we will for positive change. We ran as Hackensack Unites and that is unites, that is active, that is ongoing. We must continue to make progress and together, I know we will. Our city will a small town feel has a lot of pride, heart, and really good people, new residents and life long folks. We look forward to serving the entire city, not just those who voted for us. Our job is to serve you. We will never forget that Hackensack is more than Main Street. It is also High Street, Pink Street, Kansas Street, Louis Street, Clay Street, and all the other streets in the city. We will be at church, school, and community events, not just ribbon cuttings. We will never declare mission accomplished because a growing City always has more to achieve. We will be just as concerned about developers being able to finance their projects as our residents being able to finance homes to live here. We will listen to you, our business owners, municipal workers, seniors, students, and everyone who loves this City because we do not have a monopoly on knowledge. We must strengthen the relationship between the City and our schools. Our kids deserve it. I am proud to work with students in the same building I attended and I hope my work for the City in this new capacity will encourage many of them to do the same and serve this community. They do not have to wait until they are adults to do it. They can do it right now. I anticipate that there will be many asks of us. I want to close by asking a few things from you: patience, support, prayers, and your energy. Together, we will make Hackensack the envy of Bergen County. They say that change is scary, but change is good. It is necessary. In Hackensack, it’s time. I am excited and I know that we will do everything to ensure Hackensack maximizes its potential. Thank you Hackensack, as I have tried to do my entire life, I hope I make you proud. Thank you. Benediction – Fr. Thomas P. Quinn, Holy Trinity Catholic Church Rev. Dr. John O. Page, Mt. Olive Baptist Church Rev. Carolyn Davis, Cornerstone Baptist Church There being no further business the meeting was adjourned at 9:57p.m. Approved by Mayor and Council on August 11, 2025. _____________________________________ Mayor Caseen Gaines _________________________________ Deputy Mayor Agatha Toomey ______________________________________ Councilman Phillip Carroll 07/01/2025 22  ______________________________________ Councilwoman Sonya Clark-Collins ______________________________________ Councilman Roberto Diaz Deborah Karlsson, RMC, City Clerk 07/01/2025 23