City of Hackensack

The special council meeting addressed Resolution 508-25, authorizing an extraordinary unspecifiable services contract with Sun Life Insurance for the stop-loss portion of the city's self-insured health benefits plan. A significant portion of the discussion focused on the city's self-insurance model, the creation and depletion of the health benefits trust fund due to sustained high medical claims from 2022 through 2025, and efforts to control costs, including changes to out-of-network benefit structures in labor contracts since 2016. Council members inquired about the budgeting for the unexpected cost increases observed in the first quarter of 2025 compared to 2024, and the Mayor confirmed that the new stop-loss provider was the existing one.

The meeting commenced with the formal call to order and reading of the open public meetings act notice, followed by the flag salute. A significant portion of the meeting involved moving into and returning from an executive session to discuss several matters. The main focus of the subsequent regular session was the swearing-in ceremony for Karen Gwyn as a temporary judge for the Hackensack Municipal Court, including the approval of the authorizing resolution. Following the swearing-in, a proclamation was read honoring the lifelong friendship and partnership of Nicholas Piciello and Maryanne Di Maria, recognizing their contributions through original musicals, notably "The Christmas Caper." The proceedings included time for public comment, during which representatives from the Hackensack Police Department and the National Association of Women Judges offered congratulations to Judge Gwyn and acknowledged Maryanne Di Maria's contributions.

The special council meeting included the appointment of Timothy Hoffman as acting municipal clerk for the city. The council members expressed their support and congratulations to Timothy, highlighting his dedication to the community and extensive background in public administration. They look forward to his contributions to the city.

The council meeting included a proclamation for Mr. Joseph Zultansky's 100th birthday. The Hackensack Sha Tree Advisory Committee provided an update on their progress, including a recent grant, and discussed the importance of urban forests, tree equity, and the Second Street Canopy Project. They requested a council liaison and participation. The CFO discussed the annual audit and corrective action plan, emphasizing its importance for bondholders and potential bondholders.

The meeting included swearing in of officers, followed by a speech from the Fire Chief. A proclamation was given to the residents of Clinton Place for their Halloween displays. Another proclamation was given to celebrate Italian American Heritage Month. The CFO provided a report on best practices. There were updates on the firehouse engine 2, Fini fields 8, 9, and 10, Grand Avenue pedestrian improvements project, and roads to be paved. There was also discussion regarding Baldwin Park and the municipal court. An announcement was made regarding the full westbound closure on the Anderson Street Bridge.