City Council

City of Passaic New Jersey Passaic City Council March 4, 2025 Minutes PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC WAS CONDUCTED IN-PERSON AND VIRTUAL STREAMED VIA ZOOM ON TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 2025 AT 7:00 P.M. WEATHERLY FRIAS, MUNICIPAL CLERK, READ THE FOLLOWING NOTICE INTO RECORD: GOOD EVENING, ON BEHALF OF THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC WE WELCOME YOU TO THE MARCH 4, 2025 CITY COUNCIL MEETING. IN ACCORDANCE WITH CHAPTER 231 PUBLIC LAWS OF 1975, ADEQUATE NOTICE OF THIS MEETING WAS PROVIDED BY RESOLUTION OF THE MUNICIPAL COUNCIL ADOPTED ON JUNE 18, 2024, SETTING FORTH THE SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS FOR THE YEAR 2024-2025; SAID NOTICE WAS PUBLISHED AND POSTED ON THE CITY HALL BULLETIN BOARD BY THE OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK PLEASE BE FURTHER ADVISED THIS PUBLIC MEETING WILL BE CONDUCTED IN PERSON. THE ZOOM STREAM PROVIDED IS FOR VIEWING ONLY AND IS OFFERED TO THE PUBLIC AS A CONVENIENCE. ON FEBRUARY 21, 2025, PUBLIC NOTICE AND ZOOM INSTRUCTIONS FOR THIS MEETING WERE PUBLISHED IN THE HERALD NEWS AND POSTED ON THE CITY OF PASSAIC WEBSITE AT: WWW.CITYOFPASSAIC.COM (COUNCIL AGENDAS) INSTRUCTIONS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE ON THE LAST PAGE OF THIS AGENDA. PLEASE BE GUIDED ACCORDINGLY. ON CALL OF THE ROLL THE FOLLOWING COUNCIL MEMBERS RESPONDED: ROLL CALL Colon- Munk Love Melo Schwartz Garcia CP Schaer Montanez ABSENT X X X X X X ALSO PRESENT: Hector C. Lora, Mayor; Ricardo Fernandez, Business Administrator; Susie Burns, City Attorney Invocation was rendered by Council Member Melo followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.  Passaic City Council Minutes: March 4, 2025 Approved: August 5, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC INTERNATIONAL WOMAN’S DAY CEREMONY THE CITY OF PASSAIC HELD A CEREMONY IN RECOGNITION OF INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY, ORGANIZED BY COUNCILWOMEN THANIA MELO AND MARITZA COLON-MONTANEZ. PROCLAMATIONS WERE PRESENTED BY MAYOR HECTOR C. LORA AND THE CITY COUNCIL IN HONOR OF WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH TO PASTOR HELENA PIERCE, MADONNA, DR. ALBERTA “TAMIKA” QUICK, AND CLARIBEL QUINTANA FOR THEIR RESPECTIVE CONTRIBUTIONS IN FAITH LEADERSHIP, FUNERAL SERVICES, EDUCATION, AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP. THE CEREMONY CONCLUDED WITH ACKNOWLEDGMENTS OF ADDITIONAL COMMUNITY MEMBERS AND A GENERAL MESSAGE RECOGNIZING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF WOMEN IN THE COMMUNITY. MAYOR’S UPDATE • Acknowledged the Passaic Valley Water Commission for resolving a water main break on 8th Street. • Highlighted the Black History Month Celebration, which featured performances by Ron Foster, Alex Dixon, Al Dixon, and the Silver Senior Choir. Commended Councilman Dr. Terence Love, Mrs. Hill, and the event committee for organizing the African American Celebration Gala, which honored community leaders and awarded scholarships. • Noted that the Dominican Independence Day Celebration was led by Councilwoman Thania Melo and Board of Education President Judith Sanchez and included recognition of Dominican community leaders. • Announced upcoming construction of the walking and running track at Third Ward Memorial Park. Contingency plans for baseball fields include use of Benson Field, Pulaski Park, and Craig “Ironhead” Heyward Field. • Reported that the city’s parking deck project is ahead of schedule and may be completed before the October deadline, adding over 300 public parking spaces. • Provided an update on the striping and parking space painting initiative, completed on Hudson, Myrtle, and Lexington Avenues, with plans to continue on Third and Page 2 of 22  Passaic City Council Minutes: March 4, 2025 Approved: August 5, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC Fourth Streets. Over 700 new parking spaces have been created citywide in the past four years. • Stated that Boverini Stadium renovations are ongoing, with new turf expected to be installed within two months. • Addressed litter concerns along Route 21 and stated that although it is under state jurisdiction, the city will intervene if necessary and seek reimbursement. • Recognized Mark Watkins (Superintendent of Public Works), retired firefighter Sean Allen, and Fire Chief Patrick Trentacost for their service and contributions. • Discussed measures taken to reduce illegal dumping, including additional red and blue trash bins, extended cleanup hours by the Downtown Merchant Corporation, and installation of License Plate Reader (LPR) cameras issuing fines. • Announced the launch of the Passaic Community Accountability Program (PCAP) in partnership with Judge Bautista to assign community service to individuals responsible for graffiti and littering. • Reaffirmed commitment to maintaining a clean, safe, and welcoming city environment. Council President Schaer called for a ten-minute recess at 8:10 p.m. On a motion by Council Member Schwartz and seconded by Council Member Melo the council meeting was reconvened at 8:20 p.m. ROLL CALL Colon- Munk Love Melo Schwartz Garcia CP Schaer Montanez ABSENT X X X X X X MINUTES Council Meeting Minutes for December 17, 2024 and January 7, 2025 were submitted for approval. Upon motion made by Council Member Colon-Montanez and seconded by Council Member Melo the aforementioned meeting minutes were approved. ROLL CALL Colon- Munk Love Melo Schwartz Garcia CP Schaer Montanez ABSENT X X X X X X Page 3 of 22 Passaic City Council Minutes: March 4, 2025 Approved: August 5, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC HEARING OF CITIZENS Council President Schaer opened the public portion of the Meeting with the following statement for the record: In Accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act (N.J.S.A. 10:4-1 et seq.). The Council opens every public meeting for comments of the public. However, in accordance with N.J.S.A. 10:4-12 “nothing in this Act shall be construed to limit the discretion of a public body to permit, prohibit or regulate the active participation at any meeting,” Therefore, the City Council will not entertain any comments from persons who communicate obscene material, make statements which are considered bias intimidation in which any person attempts to intimidate any individual or group because of race, color, religion, handicap, sexual orientation, or ethnicity or makes personally offensive or abusive, defamatory or profane comments, comments intending to harass or speak any offensive or abusive language. The person who makes these statements will relinquish their allotted five minutes for public discussion. Susan Weiss • Expressed concerns about unauthorized individuals loitering near her residence. • Referenced prior issues with drug paraphernalia found in her backyard and noted a previously filed police report. • Emphasized the need for community safety, particularly for elderly residents. • Commended the Passaic Police Department for its work. Judith Sanchez • Announced that the Passaic Board of Education, inspired by the City’s Women’s History Month program, will host a celebration on March 24 at Dr. Ellen Ochoa School No. 22. • Invited city officials to attend. Ms. Dye • Raised concerns about traffic violations near the construction site of the new municipal parking deck. • Noted that vehicles continue to use a closed roadway, creating a potential hazard. • Suggested adding signage to clarify the one-way direction. • Councilman Terence Love acknowledged the concern and supported the installation of clearer signage. Page 4 of 22 Passaic City Council Minutes: March 4, 2025 Approved: August 5, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC Joe Conoscienti • Inquired about the City’s relationship with ICE and whether it assists in matters involving undocumented residents. • Requested a list of NGOs working with the City, including their funding sources and the names, titles, and salaries of involved personnel. • Raised concerns about rising costs for the parking garage project and questioned contractor accountability. • Commented on the condition of the West Side Firehouse, stating that window repairs are insufficient and the entire building façade requires restoration. • Questioned the purpose of proposed concession stands at Connie Bragg Memorial Park and whether they would negatively impact the park’s layout. After ample opportunity given and no one else responding, on a motion by Council Member Love and seconded by Council Member Colon-Montanez the public portion of the meeting was adjourned. ROLL CALL Colon- Munk Love Melo Schwartz Garcia CP Schaer Montanez ABSENT X X X X X X COMMUNICATIONS: On a motion by Council Member Schwartz and seconded by Council Member Love the following communications and petitions were received placed on file and approval granted The New Kosher K Inc., 100 Main Ave., has submitted an application to hold a Passover Merchandise Tent Sale event to be held at their private parking lot located on the corner between Palmer St. and Main Ave., from March 17, 2025, through April 21, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (Contingent Upon Departmental Approvals) Rana Samaj USA, 53 Prospect St., has submitted an application to hold a Holi Festival of Colors event to be held at Third Ward Park on April 13, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (Contingent Upon Departmental Approvals) Page 5 of 22 Passaic City Council Minutes: March 4, 2025 Approved: August 5, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC Hamlet Entertainment LLC t/a Mama Sushi, 663 Main Ave., submitting an application to renew their Entertainment License for the year 2025. ALL MATTERS LISTED HEREUNDER ARE CONSIDERED ROUTINE IN NATURE AND WILL BE ENACTED BY ONE MOTION ANY COUNCIL MEMBER MAY REQUEST THAT AN ITEM BE REMOVED FOR SEPARATE CONSIDERATION. Hon. Hector C. Lora, Mayor, submitting the following: • Memorandum re-appointing Glenny Candelaria to the Library Board of Trustees for a four-year (4) term. The term will commence immediately and expire on December 31, 2029 • Proclamation Honoring Pastor Helena Pierce for Women’s History Month • Proclamation Honoring Madonna for Women’s History Month • Proclamation Honoring Claribel Quintana During Women’s History Month • Proclamation Honoring Dr. Alberta “Tamika” Quick for Women’s History Month City of Passaic, Rent Leveling Board submitting the following: • Notice of their February 26, 2025 Organization meeting • Agenda of their February 26, 2025 Organization meeting State of New Jersey Department of State –New Jersey State Planning Commission submitting the following: • Notice and Agenda for the Passaic County Public Meeting Re: Public Informational Meeting on the Preliminary State Development and Redevelopment Plan Update- March 10, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. • State of New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection submitting the following: • Suspected Hazardous Substance Discharge Notification: NJDEP Case Number: 25-02-14-1257-09 • Soil Remedial Action Protectiveness/Biennial Certification Form – Site name: 2 Market Street Page 6 of 22 Passaic City Council Minutes: March 4, 2025 Approved: August 5, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC Associates, LLC – Street Address: 2 Market Street, Passaic, NJ 07055 City of Passaic, Zoning Board of Adjustments submitting the following: • Agenda of their February 25, 2025 meeting Borough of East Rutherford Planning Board submitting the following: • Meeting Notice Re: The Adoption of the Borough of East Rutherford’s Master Plan – February 19, 2025 Passaic Municipal Court, submitting the following: • Monthly report for January 2025 Alcoholic Beverage Control Board of the City of Passaic submitting the following: • Agenda of their February 20, 2025 Meeting ROLL CALL Colon- Munk Love Melo Schwartz Garcia CP Schaer Montanez ABSENT X X X X X X On a motion by Council Member Garcia and seconded by Council Member Melo the following communications and petitions were received placed on file and approval granted Passaic Arts & Science Charter School, submitting the following: • Notice of Meeting dates Starting August 2024 through June 2025 ROLL CALL Colon- Munk Love Melo Schwartz Garcia CP Schaer Montanez ABSENT ABSTAIN X X X ABSTAIN X Page 7 of 22 Passaic City Council Minutes: March 4, 2025 Approved: August 5, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC RESOLUTIONS: THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS TAKEN OFF THE AGENDA RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING CLOSED EXECUTIVE SESSION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF PASSAIC ON PASSAIC ON MARCH 4, 2025, AT 7:00 PM OR ANYTIME THEREAFTER TO DISCUSS PENDING LITIGATION, CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS AND PERSONNEL MATTERS THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE VOTED ON BY ONE MOTION On a motion by Council Member Colon-Montanez and seconded by Council Member Love the following RESOLUTIONS WERE OFFERED FOR ADOPTION CITY OF PASSAIC RESOLUTION NO. 25-02-058 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING AMENDMENT OF CONTRACT FOR THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EMERGENCY REPORTING SYSTEM FIRE DEPARTMENT WHEREAS, on December 5, 2024, The City Council of the City of Passaic adopted Resolution #24-12-303 (Attached) approving a contract with First Due, of Reston, VA (Carahsoft Technology) to Upgrade the Fire Department State Emergency Reporting System in an amount of $31,380.07 (1st Year) and $20, 947.36 (2nd Year); and WHEREAS, the software integration cost of $5,000.00 of this agreement must be paid directly to Law soft; and WHEREAS, the first year of this contract will be reduced from $31,380.07 to $26,380.07; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the contract with First Due, of Reston, VA (Carahsoft Technology) to upgrade the fire Department Emergency Reporting System shall be amended to decrease the contract amount to $26,380.07. Page 8 of 22 Passaic City Council Minutes: March 4, 2025 Approved: August 5, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Passaic is hereby authorized to execute this amendment on a form approved by the City Attorney and that this amendment be filed in the City Clerk’s Office. CITY OF PASSAIC RESOLUTION NO. 25-03-059 RESOLUTION REJECTING BIDS FOR NEW CONCESSION STAND AT CARNIE BRAGG MEMORIAL PARK WHEREAS, bids were received by the Director of Purchasing on Friday, February 21, 2025, for the New Concession Stand at Carnie Bragg Memorial Park; and WHEREAS, bids were received as per the attached; and WHEREAS, a full list of vendors that downloaded specifications from the website can be obtained from the Purchasing Department; and WHEREAS, the bids received exceed the budget appropriation for this project; and WHEREAS, it is the recommendation of the Director of Purchasing, Doris Dudek that this bid be rejected. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Passaic that the bids received on Friday, February 21, 2025, for the New Concession Stand at Carnie Bragg Memorial Park be rejected. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Passaic that the contract for the New Concession Stand at Carnie Bragg Memorial Park be rejected and the City re-advertise. Page 9 of 22 Passaic City Council Minutes: March 4, 2025 Approved: August 5, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC CITY OF PASSAIC RESOLUTION #25-03-060 RESOLUTION AWARDING CONTRACT FOR WESTSIDE FIREHOUSE WINDOW REPLACEMENT WHEREAS, bids were received by the Director of Purchasing on Friday, February 14, 2025, for Westside Firehouse Window Replacement; and WHEREAS, bids were received as per the attached spreadsheet: and WHEREAS, in addition to the attached, a complete list of vendors downloaded from the City of Passaic’s website is available in the Purchasing Department; and WHEREAS, Coppa Montalbano Architects, Totowa, NJ recommends that a contract be awarded to TNS Construction, Stanhope, NJ in the amount of $69,000.00 inclusive of Alternate #1(window replacement at Engine 4 Officer Room) and Alternate #2 Window replacement in Gym and Apparatus Area); and NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Passaic that the contract for Westside Firehouse Window Replacement be awarded to TNS Construction, Stanhope, NJ in the amount of $69,000.00 inclusive of Alternate #1(window replacement at Engine 4 Officer Room) and Alternate #2 Window replacement in Gym and Apparatus Area); and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Clerk are authorized to execute a contract on a form approved by the City Attorney. CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS Page 10 of 22 Passaic City Council Minutes: March 4, 2025 Approved: August 5, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC Funds for the above are available in Bond Ord #2169-18, Account #C-04-55-980-018-ESF. CITY OF PASSAIC RESOLUTION NO. 25-03-061 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING CHANGE ORDER #9 PARKING DECK – PASSAIC AND STATE STREET WHEREAS, on June 18, 2024, the City Council of the City of Passaic adopted Resolution #24-06-159 (attached) approving a contract with Dinallo Construction of Wood- Ridge, NJ in the amount of $12,757,000.00; and WHEREAS, on November 7, 2024, the City Council approved Resolution #24-11-284 (attached) for Change Orders #1, 2, and 3 in the amount of $591,943.71 for a revised contract amount of $13,348,943.71; and WHEREAS, on December 5, 2024, the City Council approved Resolution #24-12-311 (attached) for Change Orders #4 and 5 in the amount of $60,308.49 for a revised contract amount of $13,409,252.20 WHEREAS, on December 17, 2024, the City Council approved Resolution #24-12-382 (attached) for Change Order #6 in the amount of $40,323.71 for a revised contract amount of $13,449,575.91; and WHEREAS, on January 21, 2025, the City Council approved Resolution #25-01-033 (attached) for Change Order #7 and Change Order #8 in the amount of $12,142.66 for a revised contract amount of $13,461,718.57; and WHEREAS, Change Order #9 has been incurred due to a requirement to shore the sidewalk at the rear of the existing building (WIC Building) to protect the structure and the utility lines, increasing the contract Page 11 of 22 Passaic City Council Minutes: March 4, 2025 Approved: August 5, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC an additional $111,461.58 for a revised contract amount of $13,573,180.15. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the contract with Dinallo Construction of Wood-Ridge, NJ shall be amended to increase the contract amount to $13,573,180.15. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the contract be amended to increase the total amount of this contract per resolution. CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS Funds for the above are available in Bond Ordinance Account #C-04-55-984-024-PDK. CITY OF PASSAIC RESOLUTION NO. 25-03-062 RESOLUTION AWARDING CONTRACT FOR BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL FIELD IMPROVEMENTS AT VETERAN’S MEMORIAL PARK INCLUSIVE OF FENCING, NEW BASES, NEW DUGOUT, ADA COMPLIANT SIDEWALK RAMP, PLAYERS BENCHES, NEW RETAINING WALL, TRENCHING UNDER DRAIN PIPE, LANDSCAPING MULCH SEEDING WHEREAS, bids were received by the Director of Purchasing on Friday, February 14, 2025, for Baseball and Softball Field Improvements at Veteran’s Memorial Park; and WHEREAS, bids were received as per the attached; and WHEREAS, a full list of vendors that downloaded specifications from the website can be obtained from the Purchasing Department; and Page 12 of 22 Passaic City Council Minutes: March 4, 2025 Approved: August 5, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC WHEREAS, the lowest responsible, responsive bid was received from Senco Metals, Paterson, NJ in the amount of $1,241,700.00 inclusive of Alternative A, Softball Dugout Canopy, Baseball Dugout Canopy for a total of $80,000.00. Alternate B, Foul Poles in the amount of $10,000.00 and Alternate C, Pole Tension Netting System in the amount of $32,500 for a total amount of $1,246,200.00; and WHEREAS, it is the recommendation of Yasseen Saad, City Engineer that the contract for Baseball and Softball Field Improvements at Veteran’s Memorial Park be awarded to Senco Metals, Paterson, NJ in the amount of $1,241,700.00 inclusive of Alternative A, Softball Dugout Canopy, Baseball Dugout Canopy for a total of $80,000.00. Alternate B, Foul Poles in the amount of $10,000.00 and Alternate C, Pole Tension Netting System in the amount of $32,500 for a total amount of $1,246,200.00. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Passaic that the contract for Baseball and Softball Field Improvements at Veteran’s Memorial Park be awarded to Senco Metals, Paterson, NJ in the amount of $1,241,700.00 inclusive of Alternative A, Softball Dugout Canopy, and Baseball Dugout Canopy for a total of $80,000.00. Alternate B, Foul Poles in the amount of $10,000.00 and Alternate C, Pole Tension Netting System in the amount of $32,500.00 for a total amount of $1,246,200.00. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Clerk are authorized to execute a contract for the above on form approved by the City Attorney. CERTIFICATION OF FUNDS Funds for the above are available in Account # G-02-40- 043-UPI-020 NJDEP Urban Park Initiative 2023 & Account # G-02-40-023-GAP-020- NJDEP Green Acres 2023. Page 13 of 22 Passaic City Council Minutes: March 4, 2025 Approved: August 5, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC CITY OF PASSAIC RESOLUTION NO._25-03-063 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF PASSAIC TO ACCEPT A GRANT FROM THE PASSAIC COUNTY LOCAL STATION HOUSE ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM FUNDING WHEREAS, the City of Passaic desires to accept a grant from the Passaic County Department of Human Services for the Station House Adjustment Program; and WHEREAS, such grant is in the amount of $52,039 and covers the period of January 1st, 2025 through December 31st 2025; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Passaic that the City of Passaic is hereby authorized to accept a grant from the Passaic County Department of Human Services in the amount of $52,039; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the Mayor and Clerk are hereby authorized to execute the required Contract Agreement and/or take all other steps necessary to effectuate the receipt of the grant monies. CITY OF PASSAIC RESOLUTION NO. 25-03-064 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF PASSAIC TO ACCEPT A GRANT FROM THE PASSAIC COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES REGIONAL STATION HOUSE ADJUSTMENT PROGRAM FUNDING WHEREAS, the City of Passaic desires to accept a grant from the Passaic County Department of Human Services for the Station House Adjustment Program; and Page 14 of 22 Passaic City Council Minutes: March 4, 2025 Approved: August 5, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC WHEREAS, such grant is in the amount of $23,467 and covers the period of January 1st, 2025 through December 31st 2025; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Passaic that the City of Passaic is hereby authorized to accept a grant from the Passaic County Department of Human Services in the amount of $23,467; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the Mayor and Clerk are hereby authorized to execute the required Contract Agreement and/or take all other steps necessary to effectuate the receipt of the grant monies. CITY OF PASSAIC RESOLUTION NO. 25-03-065 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF PASSAIC TO ACCEPT ADDITIONAL GRANT FUNDING FROM THE NEW JERSEY ASSOCIATION OF COUNTY AND CITY HEALTH OFFICIALS (NJACCHO) FOR THE ENHANCING LOCAL PUBLIC HEALTH INFRASTRUCTURE GRANT (ELPH) WHEREAS, on July 19, 2023, the City of Passaic adopted a resolution which authorized the application and acceptance of funding from the NJACCHO for a maximum amount of $728,740; and WHEREAS, on February 10, 2025, the NJACCHO notified the City of Passaic Division of Health that additional funding was approved for the 2023 the ELPH grant in amount of $12,500 ending in calendar year 2025; WHEREAS, the City desires to accept additional grant funding from the NJACCHO for the for the 2023 ELPH grant in amount of $12,500, covering the period of July 1st, 2023 through June 30th, 2025; and Page 15 of 22 Passaic City Council Minutes: March 4, 2025 Approved: August 5, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Passaic that the City of Passaic is hereby authorized to accept additional grant funding from the NJACCHO in the amount of $12,500; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the Mayor and Clerk are hereby authorized to execute the required Contract Agreement and/or take all other steps necessary to effectuate the receipt of the grant monies. CITY OF PASSAIC RESOLUTION NO. 25-03-066 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE REALLOCATION OF A PORTION OF THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) 2024 FUNDING WHEREAS, the City of Passaic, designated as an Entitlement City, receives funding annually from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) via the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Home Investment Partnership Program (HOME) funding sources and, WHEREAS, these funds are awarded to conduct/administer allowable activities based on specific rules and regulations governing each funding source and, WHEREAS, during our 2024 Fiscal Year, a monetary award in the amount of SEVEN THOUSAND DOLLARS ($7000.00) was approved and awarded to Passaic Housing Authority to conduct a mentoring program for teenagers at Speer Village and, WHEREAS, due to unforeseen circumstances, they have advised the Department of Community Development (DCD) Page 16 of 22 Passaic City Council Minutes: March 4, 2025 Approved: August 5, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC that they are unable to move forward with this program and, as a result, have forfeited the funding and, WHEREAS, the DCD is desirous of reallocating these funds to a similar activity which is prepared to move forward; the City of Passaic Fire Department’s Junior Fire Academy Program, which for the first time will include youth with special needs and, WHEREAS, there are only four months left in the 2024 program year and DCD is required to spend down these funds expeditiously to avoid future allocation reductions, NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Passaic, that the total amount of SEVEN THOUSAND DOLLARS AND NO CENTS ($7,000.00) be reallocated to the City of Passaic’s Fire Department for the purpose outlined above. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor, City Clerk, and Department of Community Development are hereby authorized and directed to execute any documents and/or undertake any and all such actions necessary to effectuate the purpose of this Resolution. CITY OF PASSAIC RESOLUTION NO. 25-03-067 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A PARTICIPATING MEDICAID PROVIDER AGREEMENT BETWEEN PASSAIC ALLIANCE AND UNITED BEHAVIORAL HEALTH WHEREAS, the City of Passaic provides certain behavioral health services to residents through its Department of Human Services; and Page 17 of 22 Passaic City Council Minutes: March 4, 2025 Approved: August 5, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC WHEREAS, United Behavioral Health (“UBH") has proposed a Participating Provider Agreement (the "Agreement") whereby the City would become a participating provider in UBHs provider network to provide covered behavioral health services to UBH members; and WHEREAS, participation in UBHs provider network will increase access to behavioral health services for Passaic residents who are UBH members and provide a source of revenue for the City's behavioral health services; and WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed the proposed Agreement and determined that entering into the Agreement is in the best interests of the City and its residents. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Passaic, New Jersey as follows: 1. The Mayor is hereby authorized to execute the Participating Provider Agreement with United Behavioral Health in substantially the form presented to the City Council, with such minor modifications as may be approved by the City Attorney. 2. The appropriate City officials and employees are hereby authorized to take all steps necessary to effectuate the purposes of this Resolution. 3. This Resolution shall take effect immediately. ROLL CALL Colon- Munk Love Melo Schwartz Garcia CP Schaer Montanez ABSENT X X X X X X Page 18 of 22 Passaic City Council Minutes: March 4, 2025 Approved: August 5, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC ORDINANCE FOR INTRODUCTION AND FIRST READING Council President Schaer read said Ordinance by title: CITY OF PASSAIC ORDINANCE NO. 2479-25 ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 317, “ZONING”, ARTICLE IV “SCHEDULE OF REGULATION”, SECTION 317-11 “ADOPTION OF SCHEDULE” OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC CODE TO PERMIT TOWNHOUSE UNITS IN R-1 AND R-2 ZONING DISTRICTS WHEREAS, pursuant to N.J.S.A.40:48-2, the governing body of a municipality may make, amend, repeal, and enforce such other ordinances, regulations, rules and by-laws not contrary to the laws of this state or of the United States, as it may deem necessary and proper for the good government, order and protection of person and property, and for the preservation of the public health, safety and welfare of the municipality and its inhabitants, and as may be necessary to carry into effect the powers and duties conferred and imposed by this subtitle, or by any law; and WHEREAS, the City Code of the City of Passaic, Chapter 317, “Zoning,” Article IV, “Schedule of Regulations” Section 317-11 “Adoption of Schedule” sets forth permitted and conditional use regulations throughout the City of Passaic Zoning Districts; and WHEREAS, Mayor Hector C. Lora wishes to amend the zoning ordinance to permit townhouse units for the diversification of housing opportunities in R-1 and R-2 zoning districts; and WHEREAS, the lack of diverse housing types throughout the nation has limited the residential opportunities of many families; and WHEREAS, Mayor Hector C. Lora wishes to address the growing need for different housing types within the City; and Page 19 of 22 Passaic City Council Minutes: March 4, 2025 Approved: August 5, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC WHEREAS, expanded housing options improve quality of life day to day and increases accessibility for economic opportunities. NOW THEREFORE, IT IS ORDAINED that the City Council of the City of Passaic hereby accepts the ordinance amendment below and as attached for Chapter 317, “Zoning,” Article IV, “Schedule of Regulations” Section 317-11 “Adoption of Schedule”, “Attachment 4 Schedule of Regulations Part 1” for first reading; and BE IT FURTHER ORDAINED, by the City Council of the City of Passaic that the zoning ordinance amendments below and as attached are hereby referred to the City of Passaic Planning Board for its review in accordance with N.J.S.A. 40:55D-26. SECTION 1 317-11 Schedule of Regulations is amended to include the following: Townhouse Units as a permitted use in the R-1 single family and R-2 single and two family zones see “Attachment 4-Schedule of Regulations Part 1” as amended SECTION II If any section or provision of this ordinance shall be invalid in any court the same shall not affect the other sections or provisions of this ordinance except so far as the section or provision so declared invalid shall be inseparable from the remainder or any portion thereof. SECTION III All ordinances or parts of ordinances to inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed to the extent of such inconsistency. SECTION IV This ordinance shall take effect upon publication as provided by law. Page 20 of 22 Passaic City Council Minutes: March 4, 2025 Approved: August 5, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC Council Member Love moved the Ordinance be approved on first reading. Motion was seconded by Council Member Melo the public hearing be held on March 18, 2025. ROLL CALL Colon- Munk Love Melo Schwartz Garcia CP Schaer Montanez ABSENT X X X X X X PAYMENT OF BILLS On a motion by Council Member Love and seconded by Council Member Melo, the PAYMENT OF BILLS was accepted and approved. ROLL CALL Colon- Munk Love Melo Schwartz Garcia CP Schaer Montanez ABSENT X X X X X X MAYOR’S REPORT Mayor Hector C. Lora commended Fire Chief Patrick Trentacost and Deputy Chief Munier for implementing water rescue training at the Boys & Girls Club pool to enhance firefighter preparedness for flood-related emergencies in the City of Passaic. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to come before the Council, on a motion by Council Member Love and seconded by Council Member Melo the meeting was adjourned at 8:53 p.m. ROLL CALL Colon- Munk Love Melo Schwartz Garcia CP Schaer Montanez ABSENT X X X X X X Page 21 of 22 Passaic City Council Minutes: March 4, 2025 Approved: August 5, 2025 PUBLIC MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PASSAIC ATTEST: APPROVED: Weatherly Frias, Gary S. Schaer, Municipal Clerk Council President Page 22 of 22