Orlando Cruz

This document serves as a Community & Partner Update Bulletin for the Passaic County Board of Social Services, detailing agency operations, progress, and future commitments. It addresses improved performance in timeliness and customer service, modernization of systems, and investment in staff training and professional development. Key areas of focus include managing staffing challenges due to budgetary limitations, ensuring responsible overtime use, and enhancing service delivery through training in client dignity, de-escalation, and trauma-informed care. The bulletin also highlights the importance of strong community and partner collaborations and demonstrates improving performance in SNAP and Medicaid programs. The agency reaffirms its commitment to accurate and timely benefit access, equitable treatment, transparent communication, responsible fiscal management, and ongoing stakeholder collaboration.

The meeting commenced with a roll call, an announcement concerning the open public meeting law compliance, the pledge of allegiance, and an invocation, followed by a moment of silence to remember deceased county associates and service members. Key discussions included the acknowledgement of the board's swift action in supporting communities affected by the federal SNAP benefits shutdown, with gratitude expressed by a representative from QUMAC. Significant time was dedicated to recognizing the extensive efforts of county staff, including road supervisors, parks and recreation, buildings and grounds teams, the Sheriff's department, OEM coordinator, and other personnel for their work during and after a significant snow event, including securing additional salt supplies. The County Clerk's office and Board of Elections were also commended for their work managing upcoming elections. The board discussed preparations for forecasted future snow. Business concluded with the approval of an emergency temporary current budget resolution to bridge the gap until the full 2026 county budget is adopted, approval of personnel matters and bills, and subsequent adjournment.

The meeting commenced with the reading of the Open Public Meetings Law and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by an invocation. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to honoring Steve Orsini, the Superintendent of Buildings and Grounds, for his distinguished public service, including his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and various infrastructure upgrades. Proclamations were passed in honor of Mr. Orsini. The Mayor of Paterson also spoke to express gratitude for Mr. Orsini's service and for the county's support during a recent snowstorm. Later in the session, the regular order of business was suspended to discuss and move forward with Ordinance 20261, which authorizes various public improvements, equipment acquisition, and a new communication and signal system.

The meeting commenced with a roll call, an announcement satisfying the Open Public Meeting Law requirements, and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by an invocation. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a Black History Month celebration, noting it was the centennial (100 years) of the celebration. Proclamations were presented to honor four individuals for their contributions to the community, with the first proclamation presented to Dr. K. Banks for her dedication as an educator, faith leader, and community advocate, including her work in education, civil rights, and nonprofit initiatives. The meeting also included discussions and votes on the minutes of previous meetings held on December 29th and January 27th, 2026, as well as the approval of proclamations.

The proceedings centered on the 189th reorganization meeting, including a swearing-in ceremony for newly elected County Commissioners Michael Remagalia and Christina Schratz. The event featured presentations of colors, a flag salute led by the Patterson Veterans Council President, and an invocation by Reverend Dr. Kenneth Clayton, followed by a benediction by Reverend Alfred E. Steel. Following the swearing-in of Commissioner Remaglia and Commissioner Schratz, both delivered remarks. Commissioner Remaglia focused on the commitment to fiscal responsibility, infrastructure improvement, economic opportunities, and affordable housing. Commissioner Schratz highlighted the importance of amplifying voter voices, collaboration across municipalities, and leading with integrity, emphasizing priorities such as affordability, small business support, senior well-being, and youth empowerment.