City of Linden

Council Member Armando Medina provided an update, beginning with a commendation for the Department of Public Works (DPW) regarding their prompt response to potholes following a recent snowstorm. He encouraged constituents, especially from the Ninth Ward, to report potholes directly to him or the DPW. The discussion transitioned to infrastructure projects, noting the upcoming restart of the 2017 world paving project, which includes sidewalks and roads on Moorestown, Hillside, Swathmore, and Talant Streets, which was delayed due to cold weather. Medina also addressed community concerns regarding traffic enforcement, specifically speeding and running stop signs, acknowledging the efforts of the police department, traffic commanders, and parking enforcement officers who are maintaining a presence, particularly around schools. He emphasized that all reported issues, including traffic and potholes, are being diligently addressed by city departments.

The report from the Fire Committee Chairman detailed the collection of $8,256.54 from fire prevention activities, and $59,066.69 in ambulance billing for August 2019, contributing to a total deposit of $478,035.06. Announcements included Fire Prevention Night on October 4th, and the initiation of a pedestrian safety campaign on September 23rd. Appreciation was expressed for traffic department support at School Number Eight and for additional crossing guards. The Board of Education assured remediation of outstanding property issues. The September to Remember Street Festival is scheduled for September 28th. Progress is being made on compiling a ward street paving list, park improvements, and efforts to install a HAWK light on Stiles Street near Naski Park. Furthermore, positive updates were shared regarding active collaboration between the Mayor and Economic Development Director on securing a connector road to the Turnpike due to planned warehousing development. The Department of Public Works is prepared for snow, and leaf bags will soon be distributed.

Councilwoman Hickey's report included congratulations for promotions within the police department, specifically mentioning Captain Parham and acknowledging the service of Chief Schulhaver before his retirement. She thanked Captain Turbet for increasing patrols in the 10th ward due to speeding issues on WTover Road and Forest Drive, coordinating efforts with the Clark Police Department. Discussion also covered upcoming road work markings on WTover Road, Haven Place, and Riverside Drive for paving. Announcements included a citywide yard sale scheduled for October 1st and 2nd (rain date October 8th and 9th), and the annual September to Remember event hosted by the Lindon Cultural Committee on September 24th, with details on securing tables via email or the mayor's office. A request for tree planting services was noted. The report praised the Police Department's National Night Out and the first wine tasting hosted by the merchants committee, as well as the recreation art show and talent show. Condolences were extended for the passing of John Shehy, sharing a brief story about his volunteerism. The councilwoman mentioned her son attending high school and participating in Basic Leadership Training (BLT), noting an upcoming ROC car wash fundraiser. Finally, she publicly raised the issue of painting curbs and street lines in the 10th ward, stating a commitment was made that this should be completed before school opened.

The Mayor provided a report highlighting the success of the recent 'backpack to school' event, where over twelve hundred seventy backpacks were distributed. The Mayor expressed gratitude to numerous individuals and organizations for their coordination and donations. Updates were provided regarding ongoing efforts with New Jersey Transit concerning the train station, including increased patrols by the local police department and NJ Transit Police. A major announcement involved signing a redevelopment agreement with Advance Greek for the trimly Point property (vacant GAF and DuPont sites), which will result in 4.1 million square feet of warehouse space and create over 1,000 jobs. The Mayor also congratulated new fire recruits, specifically mentioning Breanna Bornstead and Tyler Scoles, noting their family legacies within the city service.

Key discussions included a motion for the installation of a streetlight on Rebecca Street. The construction code report on issued summonses was noted as being on file but unavailable for immediate reporting. Updates were provided regarding the October 5th world community meeting, which served as the Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, including a food donation from La Salsera Traffic All and recognition of honoree Angel Padilla, a retired police officer. Attendees were informed about the upcoming annual Sansa event on December 15th. Furthermore, Councilwoman Cosby detailed plans for a resident survey to gather feedback for community initiatives and stated her intention to discuss incorporating citywide cultural events, such as Hispanic Heritage and Black History celebrations, through the Cultural Committee. There was also discussion about the 'London Hooked on Fishing Not on Drugs' program, which secured a 21st Century grant in partnership with the New Jersey After School Alliance, providing educational enrichment for children and employment opportunities. Finally, an appeal was made for donations to the 'Go Fund Team London' on Giving Tuesday to support the program's sustainability.