Public Meetings - Passaic, New Jersey

Passaic City Council Meeting - November 13, 2025\n\nThe Passaic City Council met on November 13, 2025, with Council President Sheer presiding. The meeting included a mayoral update on city events, infrastructure, and election results; public comments on code enforcement, park development, and affordable housing policy; and unanimous approval of multiple ordinances, resolutions, and routine items.\n\n Mayor's Report\n- Mayor offered condolences for the recent passing of Principal Carl Creech and teacher Mr. Mix.\n- Recapped fall events: city fall festival, adopt-a-pet, pumpkin family night, seniors trick-or-treat.\n- Announced the winners of the city hall costume contest (city clerk's office).\n- Congratulated Council President on re-election as Assemblyman, along with other elected officials; noted record voter turnout of over 11,000 (compared to 7,000 in 2021).\n- Reported a food distribution partnership that fed over 2,000 individuals; another distribution set for Friday at Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church, and a turkey distribution at City Hall on a first-come, first-served basis.\n- Announced new free bus shuttle hours: 7:30–11:30 AM and 1:30–5:30 PM (break midday), with stops throughout the city and a live tracking app.\n- Provided infrastructure updates: Veterans Memorial Park and fields complete; Howard Avenue Tennis Courts drainage improvements underway; Bragg Park construction ongoing, including a concession stand named after the Bragg family (sign temporarily removed for storage).\n- Reminded of Veterans Day ceremony on November 11 and a mobile food pantry on November 12.\n- Announced free SORA certification courses for security guards starting December 9–10.\n- Confirmed that the Alliance Building (for addiction and chronic illness services) has been completed using pandemic-era CDBG funds, ending the city's lease for such space.\n\n Consent Calendar\n- Minutes of May 6, 2025 were approved (unanimous roll call).\n- Communications items 3 through 15 were approved (unanimous).\n- Communication item 16 was approved separately (unanimous).\n- Resolutions 18 through 36 were approved (unanimous).\n- Payment of bills was approved (unanimous).\n\n Public Comments & Testimony\n- Alice Bell (165 Van Buren St.) complained about a gas station on Lexington Ave. performing spray painting and repairs in the rear, emitting fumes and causing parking issues because repaired cars are left on the street. She provided video evidence. Mr. Fernandez from the administration agreed to investigate code violations regarding spray painting.\n- An unidentified resident spoke about Bragg Park, asserting that the community always considered it a park (contrary to the mayor's earlier statement). He questioned why electricity was cut off for the past two years, why a monument of the Braggs was removed, and expressed concerns about rats and whether a concession stand would compete with local bodegas. The mayor responded that electricity was removed due to misuse and construction, the sign was stored for preservation, and the concession stand will sell only grab-and-go items, not hot food, to complement nearby businesses.\n- Joe Connescenti raised three issues: 1) speeding at Tulip and Oak Street intersection endangering crossing guards; 2) deterioration of buildings at 147-149-155 (now owned by Basak LLC) with falling debris and garbage; 3) a recent tree fall caused by root damage from road work and water issues. The council noted that portable speed bumps will be placed at that location, an ordinance already prohibits cutting tree roots during road repairs, and the administration will follow up on the properties. The mayor clarified that many roads are county routes, complicating jurisdiction.\n- Yosef Wolf criticized the city's 20% affordable housing set-aside for subdivisions of five or more units, arguing it discourages development of moderately priced homes. He cited a 20,000-square-foot lot where a developer plans three houses at $1.6 million each instead of 15 townhouses, because the set-aside would require selling four units at a loss. He also complained about council members attending virtually, questioning their compensation and accessibility.\n\n Discussion Items\n- Annual Best Practices Report: Mr. Fernandez reported that the city achieved over a 92% compliance rate with state best practices for authorities and agencies, with no major audit findings. All agencies (Redevelopment Agency, UEC, Parking Authority) are functioning adequately, and the Parking Authority should generate increased revenue from the parking deck.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- Ordinance 2502-25 (amending restricted parking for disabled persons) was adopted (unanimous).\n- Ordinance 2503-25 (adding a bus stop on Lexington Avenue) was adopted (unanimous).\n- Ordinance 37 (adding clergy parking permits) was introduced for first reading; second reading set for December 2, 2025.\n- Meeting adjourned unanimously.\n\nNote: The meeting date is November 13, 2025, per the provided timestamp, although the transcript states \"November 6th\". The user directed to use the given date, so the summary reflects November 13, 2025.

The Passaic City Council held a regular meeting on October 25, 2025, at 7 p.m. in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included a mayor's update, public comments, approval of consent and routine resolutions, and discussion of several agenda items. The meeting was originally scheduled for October 21 and rescheduled to October 22 per the transcript, but the provided date is October 25, 2025. Consent Calendar - Communications items 1–5 and resolutions 6–15 were approved unanimously. - Resolutions 17–36 (routine items) were approved unanimously. - Payment of bills was approved as presented. Public Comments & Testimony - Parker J. Brown (resident) raised concerns about the proposed concession stand at Bragg Park: potential competition with local businesses (TAPS, nearby grocery stores), parking congestion, and suggested alternative community uses such as a community refrigerator or pantry. He requested his questions be included in the minutes. - John Conna (resident) complained about unsafe conditions at properties 147, 149, and 155 Broadway—including roof damage, overgrowth, and debris. He criticized lack of enforcement by city departments. - Anthony Wade (79 Barry Place) objected to the Rite Aid store being developed near his home, citing lack of proper notification, increased traffic, bright lights, and failure to address a sinkhole and tree overgrowth. He stated the city did not notify residents as required for new businesses within 200 feet, though the city administration disputed this requirement. Discussion Items Mayor's Update & Q&A - Mayor reported on recent events: Futuros Sin Frontera program with actor Carlos Moret, community circuit in the park, Italian heritage flag raising, mayor's youth council mental health walk, breast cancer awareness activities, cops and bobbers fishing event, and a visit from actor Jamie Foxx. - Free shuttle service: Mayor announced hours will change from 10 a.m.–6 p.m. to 7 a.m.–10 a.m. and 12 p.m.–afternoon, plus weekend expansion to improve usage efficiency. - Special needs job fair: Mayor proposed hosting a job fair for adults with special needs, with incentives for UEZ businesses to hire them. He noted concerns about aging out of programs and lack of federal funding for adult services. - Government shutdown impact: SNAP and WIC funding secured through October 31 and November 10, 2025 respectively, but no new 2026 funds approved; potential crisis if shutdown continues. - Infrastructure updates: Veterans Memorial Park improvements complete (track, fencing, netting); River Drive/Clifton Avenue lot reopened; Glenside and Garfield Avenue covert improvements with tree/shrub planting; Eastside Firehouse wall repair done; Harrison Street parking design completed for angled parking. Bragg Park Concession Stand Discussion - Mayor and Business Administrator Fernandez confirmed the project is fully funded by UEZ (about $1 million total, from two grants). Discussions with the community, Bragg family, and stakeholders have occurred over three years. Parking and traffic studies were conducted. The concession stand will be grab-and-go, not competing with local businesses. The bus stop will remain. A plaque honoring Bragg family will be larger. Rite Aid at Train Station (Properties 147/149/155 Broadway) - Administration stated the properties are part of a redevelopment plan with pending demolition and new project. Recent photos (Oct 15) show 95% of unsightly conditions addressed. Councilman Love noted improvement. Mayor added that enhanced lighting and security will benefit residents, and parking permits were implemented to protect resident parking. New Jersey Transit held public meetings as part of the approval process. Bike Share Program (Resolution 28) - Phase 2 adds 10 multi-speed bikes and 5 new racks, fully funded by UEZ. Two maintenance contracts: one for proprietary parts and seasonal upkeep, another for routine repairs via local service, saving costs. Key Outcomes - Resolutions 1–15 and 17–36 approved unanimously. - Payment of bills approved. - Ordinance for redevelopment plan at 91-95 Hoglesson Avenue (Block 3212, Lots 21 & 23) set for second reading on December 2, 2025. - Ordinance amending restricted parking for disabled persons set for second reading on November 6, 2025. - Ordinance amending bus stop locations (Lexington Avenue) set for second reading on November 6, 2025. - No executive session was held (Resolution 16 not discussed). - Meeting adjourned.

This regular City Council meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer from Councilman Love. Mayor Laura provided a comprehensive update on city events, public safety, infrastructure, and community partnerships. The council unanimously approved a consent calendar of routine items, heard public comments on parking, property maintenance, and street paving, and adopted several ordinances and resolutions. Key highlights included a major drug seizure by police and the approval of an expansion of the city's bike share program using grant funding. Consent Calendar - The council approved the minutes of the previous meeting unanimously (5-0). - Items 2 through 5 (Communications) were accepted without objection. - Items 6 through 19 (routine matters) were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Joe Condescente raised several issues: - Questioned whether the city or Holy Rosary Church paid for police participation in the Polish American parade in New York City. Mayor Laura clarified that off-duty officers volunteered and the church covered any costs beyond standard city services. - Requested improved traffic safety at Tulip and Oak Street, suggesting stop signs with LED lights or a traffic light due to dangerous conditions for crossing children. Council directed the administration to study the intersection. - Complained about property at 147-149 Broadway, alleging garbage and high grass. The administration responded that violations have been issued and the property has been boarded up, with ongoing inspections. - Criticized parking enforcement gaps between 3 PM and 10 PM and inaccurate ticketing. The administration disputed the claim, noting that night parking enforcement officers are active. - Raised concerns about angle parking on Henry Street, stating it makes the street too narrow for fire trucks. The city engineer confirmed the design meets safety and code requirements. - Henny Marcus, resident of 280 High Street, requested repaving of the street between Van Hamilton and the railroad. She cited a medical condition (heart condition, shoulder pain) aggravated by bumps. The council asked the administration to consider repairs during upcoming paving projects. Discussion Items - Mayor's Update: Mayor Laura reported the following: - The city led the Polish American parade in New York City for the first time in 88 years. - A meeting with Autism New Jersey to improve services for families. - Over 15,000 people attended the Mexican flag raising and parade at Pulaski Park with zero incidents. - Upcoming events: Italian flag raising, mental health walk, breast cancer awareness day, cops and bobbers fishing event, fall festival and pet adoption, pumpkin painting night. - Infrastructure: Striping completed on Gregory Avenue and High Street; Harrison Street under review. - A minor methane gas explosion in a manhole on Gregory Avenue was isolated, caused no injuries, and was handled by PSE&G, police, and fire. - Both gubernatorial candidates visited Passaic. - The NJ Anchor Program distributed property tax relief at School 6. - Resolutions 21-38: Council questioned and discussed several items: - Item 32 (grant project): Funded entirely by the state Urban Enterprise Zone in two phases; council approved. - Item 29 (legal contract consolidation): Annual consolidation of conflicts, advisory, and rent leveling board attorney contracts continued. - Item 35 (bike share program): Grant-funded expansion adding 10 more bicycles. Council member discussed usage (currently 25 bikes), free two-hour rides using code on app, and suggested providing training wheels for children. - Mayor's Closing Comment: Announced that police through a strategic operation seized one kilo of cocaine, along with other drugs and weapons, exclusively within the city. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes, communications, and routine items (all 5-0). - Adopted ordinances and resolutions as presented (all 5-0). - Approved Resolution 2500-25 regarding restricted parking for disabled persons (5-0). - Approved payment of bills (5-0). - Council directed the administration to review traffic safety at Tulip and Oak Street and consider repaving High Street. - Meeting adjourned unanimously (5-0).

Note: The transcript indicates the meeting began on September 16, 2025, but the provided timestamp is September 17, 2025. This summary uses the official timestamp date and notes the discrepancy. The Passaic City Council held a regular meeting on September 16–17, 2025. Key topics included an update from Mayor Laura, extensive public comment on a proposed high‑rise development in the R1A zoning district, and the passage of several ordinances related to parking and traffic. The council also reviewed a grant report from Millennium Strategies and approved routine items. Mayor's Update - Parks & Memorials: Rededication of Latona Griffin Park with a new fitness park; 9/11 memorial monument relocated from Passaic High School to City Hall. - Community & Partnerships: Congresswoman Poe opened a satellite office in City Hall (Mondays and Wednesdays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.); attended a mayor’s breakfast with her office. - Street Namings: Honored community leaders. - Events: Taste of Passaic bike tour (part of the city’s bike‑sharing program offering first two hours free); Hispanic Heritage Month begins September 15; Mexican flag raising parade and festival on September 28 (largest of its kind in New Jersey); Polish and Italian flag raisings in October. - Public Safety: Promoted two new police sergeants; mourned retired police officer Wagner (21 years) and firefighter Richard Gergats (28 years). - Parking Expansion: Over 700 new parking spaces created in the last two years, 1,000 over the last four to six years, through angled parking, new lots, and permit programs. Public Comments & Testimony - Joshua Goldman (185 High Street) urged the council to amend R1A zoning to remove conditional use for high‑rises, citing the 2013 Master Plan recommendation and a recent application. He said the mayor told him “there was nothing he could do” because the application was as‑of‑right. - Neil Ross reported difficulties participating in a planning board meeting via phone due to technology barriers; requested equal access for those without advanced technology. - Joe Condescenti questioned the residential parking permit ordinance (2495‑25), the origin of the R1A zone, and requested enforcement of a property at 147‑149 Broadway. Also raised concerns about an American Legion sign at a VFW post. - Razil Asa opposed high‑rise development in R1A, citing traffic, parking, and safety risks for children walking to nearby schools. Asked the council to support rezoning to single‑ and two‑family homes. - Unnamed resident (grew up in country) expressed desire to keep the area suburban, referencing a specific proposed 194‑unit development with 150 parking spots. - Sv. Weissman (155 High Street) presented a petition with nearly 400 signatures supporting removal of conditional‑use high‑rises from R1A. Handed a drafted zoning amendment to the council. - Yet Sweiss (97 West of Rail Place) voiced support for the rezoning and asked for specific next steps. - Renee Griggs (Spear Village) thanked the fire department for a community back‑to‑school event, but questioned why six police officers attended when the community experiences gun violence. Mayor later explained that police presence is often provided free to avoid permit fees. - Frida Cogan (238 High Street) described the density of the area (synagogue, two schools, thousands of pedestrians) and argued the proposed development would worsen traffic and safety. - Sheer Turner (Orchard Street) expressed concerns about adding a transient population, increased crime, and traffic dangers for his children. He stated the existing building already brings drug activity and that a larger project would degrade the community. Discussion Items - R1A Zoning & Proposed High‑Rise Development: The bulk of the meeting centered on the R1A zone, which permits conditional‑use high‑rises (≥5 stories or 50+ dwelling units) near the train station. Business Administrator Rick Fernandez explained the 1950s origins, the current master plan (2013 and 2024 reexamination) that recommends deleting the conditional use, and the legal process for changing the ordinance. Council President Shea emphasized that the council cannot publicly discuss ongoing litigation or private negotiations. Mayor Laura hinted at a potential alternative solution involving incentives to redirect development to other areas. - Grant Report: Councilmember Melo highlighted Millennium Strategies’ report, noting over $700,000 for childhood lead exposure prevention, $985,000 for Veterans Memorial Park repairs, $2 million for sewer/stormwater reuse, and a $15 million federal request for a new parking deck. The City also received $5 million for flood mitigation at Passaic Avenue and Lackawanna Avenue. Key Outcomes - Ordinances Passed (all unanimously, 5‑0): - 2495‑25: Amending vehicle/traffic code for State Street Municipal Parking Deck fees. - 2496‑25: Adding stop sign at Monroe Street and Hope Avenue. - 2497‑25: Amendments for angle parking. - 2498‑25: Designation of restricted parking for disabled persons. - 2499‑25: (Additional ordinance, adopted without detail). - Consent Calendar: Accepting items 6‑11 (communications) and 12‑21 (routine matters, including the Millennium Strategies report). - Resolutions: Items 23‑38 approved unanimously. - New Ordinance Introduced: Ordinance 39 (amending disabled parking plate numbers) set for second reading and final adoption at the October 9, 2025 meeting. - Bills Approved: As presented. - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned after a motion and vote.

[Note: The transcript reports the meeting date as September 2, 2025, but the provided metadata indicates September 3, 2025. This summary uses the metadata date.] The Passaic City Council held a regular meeting on September 3, 2025, dominated by the passage of Ordinance 2494-25, which caps annual rent increases at 3% and includes vacancy control. The meeting also featured a detailed mayor's report, public testimony on both sides, adoption of the 2025 municipal budget, and routine ordinances. Public Comments & Testimony - Numerous tenants and tenant advocates (including members of Make the Road New Jersey and Movimiento Cosecha) expressed strong support for the ordinance. Speakers shared personal stories of extreme rent hikes (e.g., a 32% increase over three years, a $1,000 overnight increase, and a 45% annual increase by one landlord). They argued the 3% cap and vacancy control are essential to prevent displacement and allow families to stay in Passaic. Several speakers cited data showing stagnant wages versus rising rents. - Landlords and property owners (e.g., Michael Kreitenberg, George Bean, and others) opposed the vacancy control provision, arguing that it prevents them from recouping renovation costs on vacant units and maintaining older buildings. They warned that without vacancy decontrol, property values and tax revenues could drop, and investment in housing quality would suffer. Some suggested a 5% cap would be more reasonable. George Bean detailed a tenant who paid $1,400 for a four-bedroom after 30 years, and the need for $50,000+ renovation for the next tenant. - Advocates for survivors of domestic violence (Nicole Morella) and veterans (Jessica Kitzen) supported the ordinance, noting that stable rents prevent homelessness for vulnerable populations. Discussion Items - Mayor's Report: Mayor Hector Lora reported on infrastructure (new parking deck with EV charging, added 500+ parking spaces), youth programs (junior police/fire academies with inclusive programming for special needs children), community events (book bag giveaway, clothing drive), and affordable housing initiatives (ADU ordinance, set-aside requirements, rent leveling board). He emphasized the administration's collaborative approach with community groups and landlords. - Rent Stabilization Ordinance (2494-25): Extended discussion on the 3% cap and vacancy control. Council members and the mayor debated potential impacts on property values, investment, and tax base. The mayor highlighted exemptions (new construction for 30 years, owner-occupied two-family homes, hardship/capital improvement applications). Councilman Monk raised concerns about declining property values shifting tax burden onto other homeowners. Council President Sherr appointed an ad hoc committee (Monk, Love, Mello) to monitor the ordinance's effects and develop ongoing policy. - 2025 Budget Adoption (Resolution 11): Chief Financial Officer presented a $118.67 million budget with a 1.85% spending increase, using $13 million from a $32 million surplus (to replace expired COVID relief funds). Discussion focused on long-term sustainability, with questions about future surplus use and potential tax increases. Budget was adopted. - Other Ordinances: Passed routine ordinances including a cap bank ordinance (2490-25), disabled parking designation updates, parking deck fees, stop sign additions, and angled parking changes. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 2494-25 (Rent Stabilization) passed unanimously (7-0), establishing a 3% cap on annual rent increases with vacancy control, plus a requirement for landlords to register annually with the Rent Leveling Board. - 2025 Municipal Budget adopted unanimously (7-0). - Other Resolutions and Ordinances (items 12-17, 19-30, 33-44, 45-49) passed as a block. - Ad Hoc Committee formed to monitor rent stabilization impacts.

The meeting consisted of a single speaker—presumably a city official—who expressed deep appreciation to attendees for their support. The speaker pledged to continue efforts to provide more activities and events for families in the city, noting that Passaic is a city of families and that every family should feel welcome. The speaker also addressed the community in Spanish, thanking them for their response and announcing a festival, emphasizing the city's progress and commitment to providing activities for children and families. The remarks concluded with blessings for the nation, state, county, and all families.

On June 7, 2025, the City of Passaic held a ceremony to honor the memory of fallen Police Officer Brian Laura (badge number 602, Passaic Police Department, end of watch April 29, 2024). The event included remarks from Mayor Laura, Chief Guzman, and family members, as well as the unveiling of plaques and a softball tournament. The ceremony underscored the community's enduring support for law enforcement and the family of Officer Laura. Opening Remarks and Plaque Dedication - Robert Longley read a poem titled "Hero's Welcome" and presented a plaque to Officer Brian Laura's widow, Kimberley, noting the city's dedication to fallen officers. - A second plaque was presented by Mayor Laura and Deputy Gentile to Families Behind the Badge, recognizing their unwavering support for the law enforcement community. The plaque was dated June 7, 2025, and expressed gratitude for the organization's tribute to Officer Laura. Family and Community Tributes - Kimberley Laura expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who attended in honor of her husband. - Hector Laura, brother of Officer Brian Laura, shared remarks about Brian's competitive spirit and the importance of honoring fallen officers. He praised Mayor Laura and the council for their nine consecutive years of honoring fallen officers without regard to jurisdiction. - A prayer was offered by an unnamed speaker, thanking God for the gathering, remembering Brian Laura and all fallen officers, and asking for protection over officers and their families. Key Outcomes - The ceremony formally honored Officer Brian Laura (end of watch: April 29, 2024) and his family. - Two plaques were presented: one to the Laura family and one to the organization Families Behind the Badge. - A softball tournament was initiated in memory of Officer Laura, with a call for participants to play competitively in his honor. - The event reinforced the city's commitment to remembering fallen officers and supporting their families, as noted by Hector Laura's commendation of Mayor Laura and the council for nine years of such ceremonies.

A city official (likely the mayor or a council member) delivered a brief speech during a rainy ceremony to express gratitude to the Passaic County Commissioners for launching the "Passaic County Move" on-demand microtransit app. The service, designed to complement existing public transit in Passaic and Clifton, was hailed as a game-changer for residents with limited vehicle access. The official highlighted key demographics and statistics to underscore the need for affordable transportation, reiterated support for county and state partnerships, and called for future expansion across New Jersey. Discussion Items - Passaic County Move On-Demand Transit Service: The official described the app-based microtransit service as a "huge game changer" for residents of Passaic and Clifton. The service addresses transportation challenges in a city where 82% of households have one or fewer vehicles (54% own one, 28% own none). With a population density of over 22,000 residents per square mile (ranking 12th most densely populated in the U.S.) and a population that is 73% Hispanic or Latino, demand for transit is high. The official emphasized that the low-cost service is not competition for existing ride-share apps because the target users often cannot afford $8–$20 fares, causing them to miss medical appointments, shopping, or visits with loved ones. The initiative complements the city's existing UEZ Shuttle Bus (free, Monday–Friday, covering all wards) and a bike share program launched in April with 25 bikes across five docking stations in every ward. - County and State Partnership: The official thanked the Passaic County Commissioners for driving the project forward, noting the partnership with the city of Passaic and Clifton. The official also acknowledged Assemblyman Sher and a Congresswoman for their work in securing funding, and expressed hope that the service would expand beyond Passaic and Clifton to all 16 county municipalities and eventually throughout New Jersey. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were recorded in the transcript. The meeting appeared to be a ceremonial launch or appreciation event. - Call for expansion: The official expressed a desire to see the service expand countywide and statewide, and emphasized the need for more funding to support transportation initiatives.

The meeting was a Memorial Day ceremony in Passaic, New Jersey, honoring fallen heroes, veterans, and community service. Mayor Hector C. Laura presided, with Deputy Mayor/Veterans Affairs Minnie Austin recognized for her leadership. The ceremony featured the presentation of certificates, a tribute to the Grand Marshal, and recognition of an immigrant mother whose three children serve in the U.S. Armed Forces. Public Comments & Testimony - An immigrant mother from Mexico, who raised her children in Passaic and did not speak English when she arrived, was honored. She expressed pride that her three children chose to serve the nation, with one son married to a U.S. Army member. The Mayor presented her with a certificate of recognition for her unwavering support and sacrifice. Discussion Items - Memorial Day Parade & Grand Marshal: The Mayor highlighted the success of the 2025 Memorial Day Parade, noting unity, diversity, and community participation from schools, seniors, elected officials, police, fire, and EMS. - Recognition of Councilman Daniel Schwartz: Councilman Schwartz, the Grand Marshal and retiring council member, was praised for his decades of service, including advocating for resources across all wards and attending countless meetings. His wife and family were also acknowledged for their support. - Tribute to Veterans and Auxiliary: All veterans, past and present, along with auxiliary members, received applause and gratitude for their service. - Recognition of a Passaic Mother: The Mayor highlighted a mother who immigrated from Mexico, raised three children who each serve in the U.S. Armed Forces, and was presented with a certificate honoring her role in shaping a family of service and sacrifice. Key Outcomes - The ceremony included the presentation of certificates to the honored mother and to Councilman Schwartz. - Councilman Schwartz was celebrated as Grand Marshal, marking his final year on the city council. - The event concluded with a blessing and expressions of gratitude for fallen heroes, veterans, and the city of Passaic.