Paterson, NJ Thursday September 8, 2026 City Council Workshop Meeting

The City Council Workshop Meeting of Paterson, NJ, held on September 8, 2026, involved extensive discussions on various procurement and budget-related matters. Key procurement topics included approval of contracts for emergency sewer repairs, purchase of a new fire department ladder truck funded by CDBG and capital funds, and awarding contracts for engineering, bond counsel, and architectural services through RFQs. The council also reviewed resolutions related to tax sales, including moving the tax sale process online and addressing delinquent property taxes. A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to public concerns about city governance, transparency, overdevelopment, and community services. The council debated a proposed ordinance to regulate street openings and excavations to ensure contractors repair roads to proper standards, with enforcement mechanisms and penalties outlined. Additionally, there was a contentious discussion about a resolution to purge taxes for a nonprofit entity, which was ultimately removed from the agenda due to procedural issues. The meeting concluded with payment of bills totaling over $15 million and various community-related resolutions. Throughout, council members emphasized the need for accountability, transparency, and adherence to proper legislative processes in procurement and financial decisions.