Passaic Council Meeting - May 5th, 2026

The City of Passaic, New Jersey municipal council held a meeting on May 5, 2026, primarily focused on the presentation and discussion of the 2026 preliminary budget. The mayor and business administrator detailed the budget process, highlighting significant cost drivers such as a 31% statewide increase in health benefit premiums, which alone accounted for a $6.5 million increase and an 8% tax increase impact. Other notable budget items included increased garbage and recycling collection costs and library appropriations. The council discussed the city’s debt service, capital improvements, and revenue sources including tax levies and pilot program revenues. The meeting also covered ordinances related to redevelopment plans, parking standards, and a roadway moratorium. The council voted to carry over a major redevelopment ordinance to the next meeting for further review, particularly concerning parking requirements and planning board alignment. Additionally, a $6.6 million appropriation ordinance for drainage improvements funded partly by a $5 million state grant was introduced and approved. The council also deliberated on health benefits negotiations involving a proposed high deductible health plan with health savings and reimbursement accounts. Several resolutions and ordinances were introduced, amended, or carried over for future consideration, reflecting ongoing fiscal and development planning efforts in the city.