Clifton public meetings in 2024

Board of Adjustment

The Clifton Zoning Board of Adjustment will hear continued applications for a self-storage facility at 811-813 Rt 46 and a mixed-use building at 423 Lakeview Ave., both requiring use variances. A new hearing seeks a bulk variance to widen a curb cut at 67 Rutgers Pl. The board will also adopt memorializing resolutions, the 2025 meeting schedule, and annual planning reports, plus appoint professional consultants for the year.

• Continued hearing for 4-story 125,200 sq ft self-storage facility at 811-813 Rt 46, seeking D(1) use variance and height variance to 39.8 ft (max 30 ft)
• Continued hearing for two-story mixed-use building with five residential units at 423 Lakeview Ave., requiring D(1) use variance
• New hearing for bulk variance to expand curb cut to 19 ft (required 12 ft) at 67 Rutgers Pl.
• Adoption of memorializing resolutions for DUA GREENS, LLC and CORRADOS REAL ESTATE LP projects
• Appointment of professional consultants for 2025, including planning, engineering, traffic, landscape, and court reporter

City Council

The Clifton City Council will hold a public hearing on the Fiscal Year 2025 budget for the Historic Botany District Special Improvement District. The council will vote on two ordinances: one to update animal regulations and one to add West 2nd Street to the list of residential streets with permit parking. Numerous resolutions include contract awards for recyclables marketing, fuel purchases, equipment, insurance renewals for 2025, and changes to the Section 8 voucher program.

• Public hearing on FY2025 budget for Clifton's Historic Botany District Special Improvement District
• Ordinance to add West 2nd Street to residential permit parking restricted streets
• Ordinance to amend dog and animal regulations to conform to state law
• Authorization for health insurance renewals for city employees and retirees for 2025
• Authorization for Clifton Public Housing Agency to adopt Small Area Fair Market Rent rule for Section 8 vouchers

The Clifton Municipal Council approved a $15.2 million claims list, adopted ordinances updating dog/animal regulations and adding West 2nd Street to residential permit parking, and tabled a third ordinance. The council also awarded contracts for recycling marketing, fuel purchases, and insurance, and made several board appointments.

• Approved $15,223,416.68 in claims (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 7961-24 updating dog/animal code (6-1)
• Adopted Ordinance 7963-24 adding West 2nd Street to permit parking (7-0)
• Tabled Ordinance 7964-24 (7-0)
• Awarded recycling contract to Newtech Recycling (7-0)
• Authorized up to $500K gasoline purchase from Rachles Michele Oil (7-0)
• Authorized up to $500K diesel purchase from National Fuel Oil (7-0)
• Approved $3.24M medical stop-loss insurance with Symetra (7-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review a proposed ordinance to eliminate M-1 and M-2 industrial zones and create a new I-Industrial District. The board will also hear applications regarding land subdivisions and variances.

• Proposed elimination of M-1 Restricted Industrial and Research Laboratories and M-2 General Industrial zones
• Proposed creation of I-Industrial District with 10,000 sf minimum lot area and 40 ft maximum building height
• Minor subdivision and bulk variances for Juan Abreu at 170-174 Hazel Street
• Continued hearing for major subdivision for Lazo Josifoski at 112 Mountain Park Road

The Clifton Planning Board approved a minor subdivision and bulk variances for 170-174 Hazel Street, and dismissed a major subdivision application for 112 Mountain Park Road after the applicant withdrew. The board also postponed review of certain ordinances to the January meeting, with no action taken.

• Approved minor subdivision and bulk variances for 170-174 Hazel Street (Block 16.13, Lot 15)
• Dismissed major subdivision application for 112 Mountain Park Road (Block 22.01, Lot 16) without prejudice after withdrawal
• Scheduled ordinance review for January meeting; no action taken

Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold continued hearings on a 125,200 sq ft self-storage facility at 811-813 Route 46, a herb-growing use at 77 Wabash Ave., and a mixed-use building at 423 Lakeview Ave. New hearings include a fitness center at 1578 Main Ave. The board will also adopt memorializing resolutions for previously approved residential variances and appoint board professionals for 2025.

• Continued hearing for 125,200 sq ft self-storage facility at 811-813 Route 46, requiring D(1) use and D(6) height variances
• Continued hearing for use variance to convert vacant office space at 77 Wabash Ave. for wholesale herb growing
• Continued hearing for mixed-use building with five residential units at 423 Lakeview Ave., requiring D(1) use variance
• New hearing for fitness center addition at 1578 Main Ave. requiring D(1) use variance
• Adoption of resolutions for residential bulk variances at 11 Rosemawr Pl., 128 Harrington Rd., and 28 Grant Ave.

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved a use variance for Dua Greens, LLC to grow herbs for wholesale at 77 Wabash Ave., and a use variance for Corrados Real Estate LP to relocate a Planet Fitness to 1578 Main Ave. Both approvals were unanimous. The board also adopted memorializing resolutions for three prior approvals and reappointed its professionals for 2025.

• Approved Dua Greens, LLC use variance for herb-growing at 77 Wabash Ave. (7-0)
• Approved Corrados Real Estate LP use variance for Planet Fitness at 1578 Main Ave. (7-0)
• Adopted memorializing resolution for Adam Hersch bulk variances at 11 Rosemawr Pl.
• Adopted memorializing resolution for Gary Hughes driveway variance at 128 Harrington Rd.
• Adopted memorializing resolution for Steven & Jody Colucci variances at 28 Grant Ave.
• Approved 2025 meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Reappointed Nicholas Graviano as Board Planner for 2025
• Reappointed Neglia Engineering Group as Board Engineer, Landscape Architect, and Traffic Consultant

City Council

The City Council will vote on multiple contracts for police and fire department vehicles, equipment, and professional design services. The meeting includes a public hearing on the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget for the Downtown Clifton Economic Development Group, Inc. Special Improvement District.

• Contract for Plog Brook Culvert Rehabilitation awarded to PIM Corporation
• Purchase of 10 2024 Dodge Durango Pursuit vehicles from Nielsen of Morristown
• Professional services contract to George A. Held and Associates for Police Department alterations
• Purchase of one 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe for the Fire Department from Hetrich Fleet Services Inc.
• Public hearing for the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget for the Downtown Clifton Economic Development Group, Inc. Special Improvement District

The City Council awarded a $1,297,875 contract for the Plog Brook Culvert Rehabilitation and approved several police and fire department equipment purchases. The council also updated handicapped parking regulations and approved an entertainment license for the Grand Saloon.

• Awarded Plog Brook Culvert Rehabilitation contract to PIM Corporation for $1,297,875
• Approved $232,253.30 for police vehicle emergency lights and equipment from Nielsen of Morristown
• Authorized $447,638.00 for one 2026 Ford F-550 Ambulance from PL Custom Emergency Vehicles
• Approved $147,999.47 for police license plate readers from Gold Type Business Machines, Inc.
• Authorized up to $400,000 for road rock salt from Morton Salt
• Approved entertainment license for Grand Saloon (5-0-1-1)
• Adopted ordinances to add 6 and delete 3 handicapped parking spaces (6-0-0-1)
• Awarded Class D Recyclable Materials marketing contract to Newtech Recycling (6-0-0-1)

Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold continued hearings on three major applications: a 125,200 sq ft self-storage facility at 811-813 Route 46 requiring use and height variances, a use variance to convert office space for herb growing at 77 Wabash Ave., and a mixed-use building with five residential units at 423 Lakeview Ave. New hearings include bulk variance requests for single-family home additions and driveway extensions. The board will also vote to adopt memorializing resolutions and minutes from the previous meeting.

• Continued hearing for Geeland LLC: raze existing building, construct 4-story self-storage (125,200 sq ft) at 811-813 Rt 46 – requests D(1) use variance and D(6) height variance (proposed 39.8 ft vs. 30 ft max)
• Continued hearing for Dua Greens LLC: use variance to convert vacant office space for herb growing at 77 Wabash Ave.
• Continued hearing for BMJR Realty LLC: D(1) use variance for two-story mixed-use building with five residential units at 423 Lakeview Ave.
• New hearing for Adam Hersch: bulk variances for single-family home addition at 11 Rosemawr Pl. (proposed front yard setback 22.9 ft vs. required 35 ft)
• Memorializing resolutions include denial of charter school proposal (TFJ Hazel LLC at 252 Hazel St.) and approval of several bulk variance and use variance applications

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved three new applications for home additions and driveway expansions, all involving pre-existing nonconforming conditions. The board also adopted six memorializing resolutions, including one denying a charter school application and five approving prior variance decisions. All votes were unanimous among present members.

• Approved second-floor addition at 11 Rosemawr Pl. with variances for pre-existing setbacks (7-0)
• Approved driveway extension at 128 Harrington Rd. with Belgian block curbing stipulation (7-0)
• Approved rear addition at 28 Grant Ave. with bulk variances (7-0)
• Adopted resolution denying TFJ Hazel LLC charter school application (5-0)
• Adopted resolution approving Victor Weiss addition at 52 Lorraine Dr. (4-0)
• Adopted resolution approving DG Investment LLC 3-family conversion at 155 Sargeant Ave. (5-0)
• Adopted resolution approving Michael Siegel addition at 45 Laurel Ave. (4-0)
• Adopted resolution approving Timothy Wisniewski mixed-use conversion at 625 Van Houten Ave. (4-0)

City Council

The City Council will discuss several ordinances, including a bond for sewer improvements and salary revisions for police and city officials. The body is also reviewing contracts for fire equipment, park improvements, and municipal services.

• Bond Ordinance for sewer utility capital improvements appropriating $8,050,000
• Contract award to Fire & Safety Services for one 75’ Enforcer HD Ladder Quint and two Saber Pumpers
• Final payment of $40,892.89 to Flanagan Contracting Group for James Anzaldi Park improvements
• Proposed ordinances to add 6 restricted handicapped parking spaces and delete 3
• Grant proposal to NJ Department of Community Affairs for an accessible Health Department social services bus

The Clifton Municipal Council adopted four ordinances, including an $8.05 million bond for sewer capital improvements (6-1), salary amendments for city hall employees and supervisory officials, and revised police officer salaries for 2024-2027. The council also introduced several new ordinances, including changes to handicapped parking and police department organization, and tabled an ordinance updating dog and animal regulations. Multiple professional service contracts were awarded, including financial advisory, auditing, and engineering services.

• Adopted $8,050,000 sewer utility capital improvements bond ordinance (6-1)
• Adopted salary ordinance adding Fire Investigator and Fire Official titles (5-2)
• Adopted salary ordinance for supervisory officials for 2023-2025 (5-1-1)
• Adopted police officer salary ordinance for 2024-2027 (6-0-1)
• Introduced 6 ordinances for handicapped parking and police dept. changes
• Tabled ordinance updating dog and animal regulations (6-1)
• Awarded $84,000 auditing contract to Lerch, Vinci & Bliss (6-1)
• Awarded $3,438,850.64 fire apparatus contract to Fire & Safety Services

Planning Board

The Clifton Planning Board will hold continued hearings on two applications: a major subdivision at 112 Mountain Park Road (requested continuation to December 5) and a minor subdivision with bulk variances at 170-174 Hazel Street. The board will also review proposed meeting dates for 2025. No new ordinances are scheduled for review. Formal action may be taken on these matters.

• Continued hearing: Lazo Josifoski, major subdivision at 112 Mountain Park Road (Block 22.01, Lot 16) – requested continuation to December 5, 2024
• Continued hearing: Juan Abreu, minor subdivision and bulk variances at 170-174 Hazel Street (Block 16.13, Lot 15)
• Review of proposed regular meeting dates for 2025

The Board unanimously approved a minor subdivision and bulk variances for 170-174 Hazel Street, subject to six specific conditions including sidewalk specifications and seepage pit adjustments. A major subdivision application for 112 Mountain Park Road was carried over to the December 5 meeting. The Board also discussed a proposal for developers to pay into a sidewalk escrow fund.

• Approved minutes of October 24, 2024 meeting
• Approved 2025 meeting dates
• Approved minor subdivision at 170-174 Hazel Street (8-0) with conditions
• Carried major subdivision at 112 Mountain Park Road to Dec 5 meeting
• Discussed sidewalk escrow fund proposal (no vote recorded)

City Council

The city council will consider a bond ordinance appropriating $8,050,000 for sewer utility capital improvements. They will also vote on first-reading ordinances to amend police department salaries for 2024-2027 and to add a stipend for fire investigator. Additionally, the council will approve several resolutions including contracts for accessible pathways in parks, a developer agreement with Patra Garden, and appointment to the zoning board. Public hearings are scheduled for multiple handicapped parking ordinance amendments.

• Bond ordinance O-7952-24: $8,050,000 for sewer utility capital improvements
• Ordinance O-7955-24: Revises police officer salaries for 2024-2027
• Resolution R-511-24: Contract with Suburban Consulting Engineers for accessible pathways in various parks
• Resolution R-512-24: Approves developer agreement with Patra Garden, LLC
• Resolution R-516-24: Appoints alternate #2 to Clifton Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Clifton Municipal Council approved four ordinances amending handicapped parking regulations, introduced a $8.05 million bond ordinance for sewer capital improvements, and introduced ordinances to revise salaries for city hall employees, supervisory officials, and police officers. The council also approved several contracts, including a $39,785 traffic calming trial, a $65,000 health insurance broker service, and a $150,000 forensic audit. Additionally, the council canceled the remaining Botany Village flea markets for 2024 and hired 13 new police officers.

• Approved $8.05M sewer utility capital improvements bond ordinance (6-1)
• Approved 4 handicapped parking ordinance amendments (7-0 each)
• Introduced police salary ordinance for 2024-2027 (6-0-1)
• Awarded $39,785 traffic calming trial contract to Statewide Striping (6-0-1)
• Awarded $65,000 health insurance broker contract to Acrisure/IMAC (5-2)
• Awarded $150,000 forensic audit contract to Holman Frenia Allison (4-3)
• Canceled remaining Botany Village flea markets (4-3)
• Hired 13 new police officers at $43,262-$46,997 annually

Board of Adjustment

The Clifton Zoning Board of Adjustment will hear continued and new applications for use and bulk variances, including a proposal for a two-story mixed-use building with five residential units and retail space at 423 Lakeview Ave. Other items include residential additions and conversions, plus adoption of memorializing resolutions for past decisions.

• BMJR Realty LLC – D(1) use variance for 2-story mixed-use building with 5 residential units and parking garage at 423 Lakeview Ave (Zone BC)
• DG Investment LLC – D(1) use variance to convert commercial building into 3-family residence at 155 Sargeant Ave (Zone M2)
• Victor Weiss – bulk variances for rear and side yard setbacks and lot coverage for addition at 52 Lorraine Drive (Zone RA-3)
• Michael Siegel – bulk variances for front, side, and rear yard setbacks and lot coverage for addition at 45 Laurel Ave (Zone RA-2)
• Timothy Wisniewski – D(1) use variance to expand residential portion of mixed-use building with no parking at 625 Van Houten Ave (Zone B-C)

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved several applications, including a residential conversion at 155 Sargeant Ave. and a home addition at 52 Lorraine Drive, while tabling the BMJR Realty mixed-use project at 423 Lakeview Ave. for revised plans. The board also adopted resolutions dismissing several applications without prejudice and approved minutes from the previous meeting.

• Approved Victor Weiss home addition at 52 Lorraine Drive (6-0)
• Approved DG Investment LLC residential conversion at 155 Sargeant Ave. (7-0)
• Tabled BMJR Realty mixed-use project at 423 Lakeview Ave. for revised plans
• Approved Michael Siegel home addition at 45 Laurel Ave. (5-1)
• Approved Timothy Wisniewski office/apartment conversion at 625 Van Houten Ave. (5-1)
• Adopted resolution dismissing AMEER SIGNS application without prejudice
• Adopted resolution dismissing MITCHELL TISCHLER application without prejudice
• Adopted resolution dismissing NEW HOPE SCHOOL application without prejudice

Planning Board

The Clifton Planning Board will hold a regular meeting to review continued subdivision hearings and ordinance items. The board is also scheduled to receive reports from city planners and commissioners.

• Continued hearing for Lazo Josifoski's major subdivision at 112 Mountain Park Road
• Request to continue Juan Abreu's minor subdivision and bulk variances at 170-174 Hazel Street
• Ordinance review scheduled
• City Planner's Reports
• Commissioner's Reports

The Clifton Planning Board approved the minutes of its September 26, 2024 meeting. Two subdivision applications (Juan Abreu at 170-174 Hazel Street and Lazo Josifoski at 112 Mountain Park Road) were carried to the November 7, 2024 meeting. In closed session, the Board discussed the Superior Court opinion in the Morici appeal and directed that an appeal be filed with the Appellate Division.

• Approved minutes of September 26, 2024 meeting
• Carried Juan Abreu minor subdivision and bulk variances hearing to November 7, 2024
• Carried Lazo Josifoski major subdivision hearing to November 7, 2024
• Directed filing of appeal with Appellate Division in Morici case

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will take formal action on several pending variance and site‑plan applications. Items include a request by Geeland LLC for use and height variances to build a 4‑story self‑storage facility on Route 46, and a request by New Hope School for use, conditional use and bulk variances to relocate a K‑8 school on DeMott Avenue. Additional matters are a herb‑wholesale use variance for DUA Greens LLC, residential bulk variances for a two‑story addition on Lorraine Drive, and the adoption of several memorializing resolutions and the minutes from the October 9 meeting.

• Geeland LLC: D(1) use and D(6) variances for 4‑story self‑storage, 811‑813 Rt 46, Bl 34.03, Lots 75 & 77, Zone RA2
• New Hope School: D(1) use, D(3) conditional use, and bulk variances for relocation, 76‑78 DeMott Ave, Bl 12.15, Lot 23, Zone R‑B1
• DUA Greens LLC: D(1) use variance to convert vacant office to herb‑wholesale space, 77 Wabash Ave, Bl 5.07, Lot 14, Zone M‑2
• Victor Weiss: bulk variances for two‑story residential addition, 52 Lorraine Drive, Bl 50.05, Lot 20, Zone RA‑3
• Adoption of memorializing resolutions and minutes from the October 9, 2024 meeting

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved a use variance and site plan for a proposed Starbucks café/restaurant and private roadway on a narrow PSE&G-owned lot at 10 Metro Blvd/340 Kingsland St. The board also approved a driveway expansion variance for a four-family apartment building at 27 Althea St. and dismissed without prejudice the New Hope School application. Several other applications were carried to future meetings.

• Approved PB Nutclif Master LLC use variance and site plan for Starbucks café/restaurant and private roadway (5-0)
• Approved Vania Nettleford variance for driveway expansion and parking at 27 Althea St., subject to drainage improvements (5-0)
• Dismissed without prejudice New Hope School application at 76-78 DeMott Ave. (5-0)
• Approved memorializing resolution for denial of Sherif Habib variance at 27 Sixth Ave. (5-0)
• Approved memorializing resolution for John & Joanne Varriano driveway variance at 77 Rutgers Place (5-0)
• Approved memorializing resolution for Atara Cohen addition variance at 97 Patricia Place (5-0)
• Approved memorializing resolution for Julian Nazario addition variance at 53 Greglawn Drive (4-0)
• Approved minutes of October 9, 2024 regular meeting (5-0)

City Council

The council will consider several budget and contract actions, including two Chapter 159 resolutions adding a $4,328 CASA grant and a $637,195 Emergency Operations Center grant to the 2024 municipal budget. It will vote on a bond ordinance that appropriates $17,399,000 for various 2024 capital improvement projects and authorizes $16,529,000 in bonds. Additional items include authorizing advertisement and procurement of two Pierce Saber pumpers and one 75‑foot Enforcer HD ladder for the fire department, awarding a contract to Advanced Air Duct Cleaning for city building duct cleaning, and awarding a contract to Edmunds GovTech for accounting software services in 2025.

• Approve Chapter 159 budget amendment resolutions adding $4,328 CASA grant and $637,195 Emergency Operations Center grant (R479‑R480)
• Approve bond ordinance appropriating $17,399,000 for 2024 capital improvements and authorizing $16,529,000 in bonds (O‑7947‑24)
• Authorize advertisement and procurement of two Pierce Saber pumpers and one 75' Enforcer HD Ladder Quint for the fire department (R‑482)
• Award contract to Advanced Air Duct Cleaning for cleaning air ducts in city buildings (R‑483)
• Award contract to Edmunds GovTech, Inc. for accounting and financial software services for 2025 (R‑485)

The council adopted a bond ordinance appropriating $17,399,000 for various 2024 capital improvements and authorizing $16,529,000 in bonds, with Councilwoman Sadrakula voting no. It also adopted a new chapter on block parties and introduced four ordinances amending handicapped parking rules. Several resolutions were approved, including a $13.2M claims list, a $150,000 forensic audit contract, and a $33,116.62 air duct cleaning contract, while a supplemental funds resolution for a harassment claim failed.

• Adopted $17.4M bond ordinance for 2024 capital improvements (6-1)
• Adopted ordinance creating Chapter 160 'Block Parties' (7-0)
• Introduced ordinance deleting 1 handicapped parking space (6-0-1)
• Introduced ordinance adding 5 restricted handicapped spaces (7-0)
• Introduced ordinance deleting 4 restricted handicapped spaces (7-0)
• Introduced ordinance amending handicapped parking placard number (7-0)
• Approved $13,207,366.73 claims list (7-0)
• Approved $150,000 forensic audit contract with Holman Frenia Allison (4-3)

Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold hearings on several site plans, including a proposed charter school and a self-storage facility. The board will also review residential bulk variances for home additions and conversions.

• TFJ Hazel LLC: Proposal to convert a vacant industrial building at 252 Hazel Street and 237 West 3rd Street into a 55,226 sq ft private charter school
• Geeland, LLC: Proposal to build a 4-story 125,200 sq ft self-storage facility at 811-813 Rt 46
• Sherif Habib: Request to convert a one-family home at 27 Sixth Ave. to a two-family home
• Dua Greens, LLC: Use variance to convert vacant office space at 77 Wabash Ave. for growing herbs
• New Hope School: Request to relocate a K-8th grade school to 76-78 DeMott Ave.

The Clifton Board of Adjustment denied a conditional use variance and height variance to expand the iLearn Schools charter school at 252 Hazel Street and 237 West 3rd Street, and denied an application for Ameer Signs. The Board approved several residential driveway and addition variances, a café conditional use variance, a mixed-use building development, and several other matters.

• Dismissed Ameer Signs application at 1240 Main Ave. without prejudice (7-0)
• Dismissed Mitchell Tischler application at 35 Lehigh Ave. without prejudice (7-0)
• Approved driveway expansion variance for John & Joanne Varriano at 77 Rutgers Place (7-0)
• Approved house addition and bulk variances for Atara Cohen at 97 Patricia Place (7-0)
• Approved front porch and driveway variances for Julian Nazario at 53 Greglawn Drive (6-1)
• Denied conversion of single-family home to two-family for Sherif Habib at 27 Sixth Ave. (7-0)
• Denied D(3) conditional use and height variances for TFJ Hazel LLC/iLearn Schools at 252 Hazel St. (6-1)
• Approved resolution for bulk variance for Preeti Rana at 101 Brighton Rd. (7-0)

City Council

The Clifton City Council will hold a regular meeting to approve a $17.399M bond ordinance for 2024 capital improvements, adopt new block party regulations, and vote on tax exemptions for disabled veterans. The council will also discuss amendments to dog ordinances, crossing guard contracts, and tax department updates. Several resolutions cover engineering contracts, vehicle disposal, and municipal facility modifications.

• $17.399M bond ordinance for 2024 capital improvements
• New block party ordinance (Chapter 160) adoption
• $100,000 sewer utility capital appropriation for public improvements
• Resolution to cancel and refund 2024 3rd quarter taxes for disabled veteran at 71 Brook Hill Terrace
• Approval of $16.529M in bonds or notes to finance capital projects

At the October 1, 2024 regular meeting, the Clifton City Council introduced a $17,399,000 capital bond ordinance and approved the Clifton Public Housing Agency's 2025-2029 5-Year Plan and 2025 Annual Plan. The Council also passed multiple traffic and parking ordinances, approved professional service contracts and claims lists, and authorized a tax refund for a disabled veteran.

• Approved minutes of the September 17, 2024 Workshop, Executive, and Regular Sessions (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 7940-24 deleting two handicapped parking spaces on streets (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 7941-24 adding 13 restricted handicapped parking spaces for private residences (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 7942-24 deleting seven handicapped parking spaces for private residences (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 7943-24 amending a handicapped parking placard number (7-0)
• Tabled Ordinance 7944-24 creating Chapter 160 'Block Parties' (7-0)
• Adopted capital Ordinance 7945-24 appropriating $100,000 from the Sewer Utility Capital - Capital Improvements Fund (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 7946-24 adding Sherman Place to restricted residential streets (7-0)

Planning Board

The Clifton Planning Board will meet to approve a site plan and parking variance for the Church of the Sacred Heart. The board will also hear continued requests for adjournment and subdivision approvals.

• Approval of minutes for September 26, 2024
• Site plan and parking variance for Church of the Sacred Heart
• Continued hearing for Lazo Josifoski's major subdivision
• Continued hearing for Juan Abreu's minor subdivision and bulk variances
• Request to adjourn Josifoski's hearing to November 7, 2024

The Clifton Planning Board approved a resolution granting preliminary and final site plan approval and variances for the Church of the Sacred Heart at 25 Clifton Avenue. Two subdivision applications were continued to future meetings. The board also approved the minutes of the August 22, 2024 meeting.

• Approved preliminary and final site plan and variances for Church of the Sacred Heart, 25 Clifton Avenue
• Approved minutes of August 22, 2024 meeting
• Continued Juan Abreu minor subdivision hearing to October 24, 2024
• Continued Lazo Josifoski major subdivision hearing to November 7, 2024

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will hold a special meeting on September 23, 2024 to take formal action on several applications from TFJ Hazel LLC. The agenda includes preliminary and final major site plan approval, a minor subdivision (lot consolidation), a conditional use variance, a height variance, and bulk relief for converting the existing two- and three‑story industrial building at 252 Hazel Street and 237 West 3rd Street into a private charter school operated by iLearn Schools. The applicant also seeks variances for parking placement in the front yard and for fence heights along the property line and surrounding streets. Public notice was published in the Record and Herald News on August 18, 2024.

• Preliminary and final major site plan approval for 252 Hazel St & 237 West 3rd St project
• Minor subdivision (lot consolidation) for Block 16.11, Lots 1 and 2, Zone R‑B2
• Conditional use variance to permit 35.3% lot coverage and 45.7‑ft building height for a charter school
• Height variance and bulk (“c”) relief to permit three‑story building and reduced setbacks
• Variances for front‑yard parking and fence heights (7‑ft along Garden State Parkway, 6‑ft along Hazel, West 3rd, West 7th Streets)

The Board held a continued hearing regarding the adaptive reuse of 252 Hazel St. and 237 West 3rd St. into a charter school for iLearn Schools. No final decision was made; the application was carried over to the October 9, 2024, meeting.

• Tabled decision on TFJ HAZEL LLC charter school application to October 9, 2024

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will consider several site plans and use variances, including a request to relocate a religious school and a proposal for a mixed-use retail and residential building. The meeting also includes requests for residential kitchen extensions and a commercial herb-growing operation.

• New Hope School: Proposal to relocate a K-8 religious school to 76-78 DeMott Ave
• 1607-1617 Main Ave, LLC: Proposal for a two-story retail and residential mixed-use building
• Dua Greens, LLC: Use variance to convert vacant office space at 77 Wabash Ave for growing herbs
• Damasco Café: Proposal to use an empty storefront at 600 Getty Ave as a café/ice cream shop
• Preeti Rana: Bulk variance for a kitchen extension at 101 Brighton Rd

The Board approved a mixed-use building featuring retail space and 12 residential apartments at 1607-1617 Main Ave. following a series of plan adjustments to meet parking requirements. Additionally, the Board approved a kitchen extension variance for 101 Brighton Rd. and a parking variance for a new café at 600 Getty Ave. Several other applications were carried to future meetings at the request of applicants.

• Approved mixed-use development at 1607-1617 Main Ave. (7-0)
• Approved kitchen extension variance for 101 Brighton Rd. (7-0)
• Approved parking variance for Damasco Café at 600 Getty Ave. (7-0)
• Adopted resolution for Unifoods, LLC (7-0)
• Adopted resolution for 1184 Main Ave. Clifton LLC (7-0)
• Approved minutes from September 4, 2024 meeting (6-0)
• Tabled applications for TFJ Hazel LLC, Geeland LLC, and others to future dates

City Council

The Clifton City Council will consider a corrective action plan to address recommendations from the 2023 independent auditor's report and approve various contracts for public safety, infrastructure, and community development.

• Corrective Action Plan for 2023 Independent Auditor's Report
• Approval of $680,000 for Public Improvements from Capital Fund Balance
• Approval of $640,000 for Public Improvements from Sewer Utility Capital Fund Balance
• Authorization for Sidewalk and Curb Improvements via NJDOT State Aid
• Approval of $100,000 for Public Improvements from Sewer Utility Capital Improvements Fund

The Clifton City Council approved a $20.2 million claims list, adopted four ordinances including a $680,000 capital improvement fund and a $640,000 sewer utility fund, and awarded contracts for firefighting gear and a forensic audit. The council also introduced several ordinances on first reading, including new block party rules and handicapped parking changes, and tabled two others. A motion to approve supplemental funds for an employee investigation failed on a 3-3 vote with one abstention.

• Approved $20,225,195.74 in claims (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 7933-24 for temporary food establishment licensing (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 7934-24 appropriating $680,000 for public improvements (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 7935-24 appropriating $640,000 for sewer utility improvements (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 7936-24 amending building height definition (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 7937-24 adding Montclair State rep to Arts Center committee (7-0)
• Awarded $800,718.27 contract for structural firefighting gear (7-0)
• Failed to approve supplemental funds for employee investigation (3-3-1)

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment will consider several site plan approvals and variances, including a proposed 4-story self-storage facility and a new mixed-use building. The meeting also includes hearings on residential conversions and commercial expansions.

• Proposed 125,200 sq ft 4-story self-storage facility at 811-813 Rt 46
• Proposed two-story mixed-use commercial and residential building at 1184 Main Ave
• Request to convert a one-family home to a two-family home at 27 Sixth Ave
• Proposed loading dock and interior modifications for cheese manufacturing at 364 East First St
• Sign variances for face lit signage at 1240 Main Ave

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved a preliminary and final site plan for a new two-story mixed-use building at 1184 Main Ave., featuring medical office space and four one-bedroom apartments, subject to conditions including compliance with professional recommendations and improvements to the existing bank building. The board also approved a variance for Unifoods, LLC to modify a cheese manufacturing facility at 364 East First St., adding a loading dock and trash area. Several other applications were continued to future meetings, and two memorializing resolutions were adopted.

• Approved 1184 Main Ave. mixed-use building with use and bulk variances (7-0)
• Approved Unifoods, LLC variance for loading dock and trash area at 364 East First St. (7-0)
• Adopted memorializing resolution denying variances for Mohammad Jaber at 42 Prospect St. (7-0)
• Adopted memorializing resolution approving bulk variance for Kevin Yorks & Lauren Potoczniak at 58 Melody Hill Rd. (7-0)
• Approved minutes of August 14, 2024 regular meeting
• Continued New Hope School application to September 18, 2024
• Continued TFJ Hazel LLC application to special meeting September 23, 2024
• Carried Geeland, LLC application to October 23, 2024

City Council

The City Council is voting on several capital ordinances and bond authorizations for public and sewer utility improvements. The body is also reviewing contracts for police vehicles, fire station HVAC systems, and the closure of two dormant trust accounts.

• Bond Ordinance for 2024 Capital Improvements appropriating $18,000,000 (O-7938-24)
• Bond Ordinance for Sewer Utility Capital Improvements appropriating $8,050,000 (O-7939-24)
• Purchase of ten 2024 Dodge Durango Pursuit AWD SUVs for the Police Department (R418)
• Capital Ordinance appropriating $680,000 for public improvements (O-7934-24)
• Proposal to close Revolving Loan and Housing Reserve trust accounts totaling approximately $1.5 million

The Clifton City Council tabled two bond ordinances: one appropriating $18,000,000 for various 2024 capital improvements (with $17,139,100 in bonds) and another appropriating $8,050,000 for sewer utility capital improvements, both on 4-3 votes. The council also introduced five ordinances for first reading, including a $680,000 general capital appropriation and a $640,000 sewer utility capital appropriation, all set for public hearing on September 17. Additionally, the council approved a developer agreement with PB Nutclif Master LLC for 310 Kingsland Street and hired six new firefighters at $43,190 annually each.

• Tabled $18M capital improvements bond ordinance (4-3)
• Tabled $8.05M sewer utility capital bond ordinance (4-3)
• Introduced $680K general capital ordinance for public improvements (7-0)
• Introduced $640K sewer utility capital ordinance (7-0)
• Introduced ordinance amending building height definition in zoning code (7-0)
• Approved developer agreement with PB Nutclif Master LLC for 310 Kingsland St (7-0)
• Approved $20,225,195.74 in claims for September 3, 2024 meeting
• Approved purchase of 10 Dodge Durango police vehicles, not to exceed $418,912.50

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a new hearing regarding a site plan for the Church of the Sacred Heart. The board will also address continued hearings for subdivision applications.

• Church of the Sacred Heart (25 Clifton Avenue): amended site plan to repave parking lot, directional modifications, and a parking variance
• Lazo Josifoski (112 Mountain Park Road): major subdivision (continued to September 26, 2024)
• Juan Abreu (170-174 Hazel Street): minor subdivision and bulk variances (continued to October 24, 2024)

The Clifton Planning Board approved preliminary and final site plan approval for the Church of the Sacred Heart to repave and reconfigure its parking area, including a variance to reduce required parking spaces from 123 to 108. The approval is conditional on compliance with the Neglia Engineering report dated August 15, 2024. The board also recommended adoption of proposed ordinance changes regarding building height and industrial/manufacturing zone changes as conforming to the Master Plan.

• Approved preliminary and final site plan for Church of the Sacred Heart parking lot repave and reconfiguration (unanimous)
• Granted variance to reduce parking spaces from 123 required to 108 proposed (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of building height ordinance changes as conforming to Master Plan
• Recommended adoption of industrial/manufacturing zone changes as conforming to Master Plan

City Council

The City Council will vote on a capital ordinance for public improvements and discuss the closure of two dormant trust accounts. The body is also reviewing several requests for proposals for professional services and updates to residential parking and handicapped space regulations.

• Capital Ordinance appropriating $2,915,422.00 for public improvements
• Proposal to close Revolving Loan Trust (~$500,000) and Housing Reserve Trust (~$1,000,000) accounts
• Contract award to SHI International Corporation for Police Department technology products
• Grant sub-recipient agreement with St. Peter's Haven for $75,000 (CDBG-CV)
• Public hearing for the Morris Canal Drainage Improvement Project

The Clifton City Council adopted several ordinances and resolutions, including a $2.9M capital improvement appropriation and a $11.07M claims list. The most consequential action was a 4-3 vote to end any discussion of allowing cannabis businesses in Clifton, overriding a prior motion to discuss the topic. The council also approved prequalification regulations for the Morris Canal Drainage Improvement Project and renewed a payroll services contract.

• Adopted resolution ending all cannabis business discussions (4-3)
• Adopted $2,915,422 capital ordinance for public improvements (7-0)
• Approved $11,072,300.81 claims list (7-0)
• Adopted prequalification regulations for Morris Canal Drainage Improvement Project (7-0)
• Renewed Primepoint payroll services contract for $190,720 (7-0)
• Awarded $300,000 contract to Foveonics for cloud-based file management (7-0)
• Approved tax appeal settlement for 680 Route 3 West (7-0)
• Approved minutes of August 7, 2024 meetings (6-1)

Board of Adjustment

The Clifton Board of Adjustment will hear continued and new hearings on zoning variances for a proposed private charter school, residential conversions, and commercial site modifications. The board will also adopt memorializing resolutions for prior variance approvals and review minutes from previous meetings.

• Preliminary and final site plan approval for a private charter school at 252 Hazel St and 237 W 3rd St (TFJ Hazel LLC)
• Bulk variances for converting single-family homes to two-family homes at 27 Sixth Ave (Sherif Habib) and 42 Prospect St (Mohammad Jaber)
• Use and bulk variances for a mixed-use retail-residential building at 1607-1617 Main Ave (1607-1617 Main Ave, LLC)
• Conditional use and bulk variances for a religious school relocation at 76-78 DeMott Ave (New Hope School)
• Conditional use variance for a 20’ x 56’ sound wall at PSE&G’s Athenia Switching Station (121 St. Andrews Blvd & Mt. Prospect Ave)

The Clifton Zoning Board of Adjustment denied Mohammad Jaber's application to convert a single-family home at 42 Prospect St. into a two-family home, voting 7-0 against the required variances. The board also approved a variance for Kevin Yorks and Lauren Potoczniak at 58 Melody Hill Rd. to rebuild a two-story home with a reduced side yard setback, and adopted resolutions for several prior approvals, including a PSE&G sound wall and a Catholic Charities accessibility ramp project. The New Hope School application at 76-78 DeMott Ave. was continued to September 18, 2024, pending submission of engineering plans.

• Denied two-family conversion at 42 Prospect St. (7-0)
• Approved side yard variance for 58 Melody Hill Rd. (7-0)
• Adopted resolution for 80 Nugent Dr. addition (7-0)
• Adopted resolution for 87 Virginia Ave. addition (7-0)
• Adopted resolution for 367 Rutherford Blvd. garage conversion (7-0)
• Adopted resolution for 62 Lake Ave. new home (7-0)
• Adopted resolution for Catholic Charities ramps (7-0)
• Adopted resolution for PSE&G sound wall (7-0)

City Council

The Clifton City Council will decide on budget amendments including $2.15 million in grants for parks, public health, and traffic safety. It will also vote on contracts for Nash Park and Stefan Tatarenko Memorial Park improvements, sewer work on Passaic Avenue and Allwood Road, and the purchase of tires. Several ordinances regarding parking and advisory committees will receive second readings.

• Approve $2.15M in grants: $1.4M NJDEP Green Acres/Urban Parks, $54,228.06 DDEF, $14,000 Code Blue, $490.34 Alcohol Education (R374-R377)
• Award Nash Park improvements engineering contract to LAN Associates (R378)
• Award Stefan Tatarenko Memorial Park improvements contract to Zenith Construction (R379)
• Award Passaic Avenue and Allwood Road sewer improvement construction management to Boswell Engineering (R380)
• Purchase tires and recapped tires via NJ State Contract from Custom Bandag (R381)

The Clifton City Council approved a $2.9 million capital improvement ordinance on first reading, adopted five ordinances (including adding two alternate members to the disabilities committee and various handicapped parking changes), and approved several resolutions including a $111,500 engineering contract for Nash Park improvements and a $760,000 contract for Stefan Tatarenko Memorial Park improvements. The council also appointed three towing companies as official towers, denied one towing appointment, and approved a labor counsel contract not to exceed $135,000.

• Adopted Ordinance 7912-24 adding two alternate members to disabilities committee (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 7923-24 deleting 3 handicapped parking spaces (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 7924-24 adding 12 restricted handicapped spaces (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 7925-24 deleting 2 restricted handicapped spaces (6-0-1)
• Adopted Ordinance 7926-24 amending handicapped parking placard number (7-0)
• Introduced Ordinance 7928-24 appropriating $2,915,422 for capital improvements (7-0)
• Awarded $111,500 engineering contract to LAN Associates for Nash Park improvements
• Awarded $760,000 contract to Zenith Construction for Stefan Tatarenko Memorial Park improvements

Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a hearing for TFJ Hazel LLC regarding a project at 252 Hazel Street and 237 West 3rd Street. The applicant seeks to repurpose a vacant manufacturing building into a 55,226 square foot private charter school operated by iLearn Schools.

• Request for a d(3) conditional use variance and d(6) height variance for a school at 252 Hazel Street and 237 West 3rd Street
• Proposal for 90 surface parking spaces and a bus staging lane along Seventh Avenue
• Request to permit a building height of 45.7 feet and 3 stories where 30 feet and 2 stories are permitted
• Request for lot coverage of 35.3% where 20% is permitted
• Request for variances to allow parking in the front yard and security fences up to 7 feet in height

The Zoning Board of Adjustment held a special meeting to hear an application by TFJ Hazel LLC to convert an existing building at 252 Hazel St. and 237 West 3rd St. into a charter school operated by iLearn Schools. The board heard testimony from the applicant's experts and public comments, but took no final action. The application was carried to the August 14, 2024 regular meeting for further review, with a new hearing date to be set then.

• Application for charter school conversion continued to Aug. 14, 2024
• Board accepted Dr. Nihat Guvercin as expert in education administration
• Board accepted Matthew Zwingraf as expert in site engineering
• Board accepted Nassir Almukhtar as expert in architecture
• Board accepted Matthew Seckler as expert in traffic engineering

Planning Board

The Clifton Planning Board carried the minor subdivision and bulk variance application for 170-174 Hazel Street to the October 24, 2024 meeting. The applicant requested the continuance to address issues raised by board members and the public, including concerns about parking and the number of variances required for the proposed two-family home. The board approved the minutes of the June 27, 2024 meeting.

• Approved minutes of June 27, 2024 meeting
• Carried 170-174 Hazel Street subdivision application to October 24, 2024

Board of Adjustment

The Clifton Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a regular meeting on July 17, 2024, with continued and new hearings on variance requests. The most consequential item is a continued application for a 4-story self-storage facility at 811-813 Route 46, requiring use and height variances. Other items include residential additions, a garage conversion, signage, a new home, a group home ramp, and a PSE&G sound wall. The board will also adopt resolutions for previously approved projects and minutes.

• Geeland, LLC: 125,200 sq ft self-storage facility at 811-813 Rt 46, with use and height variances (39.8' vs 30' max)
• 62 Lake Avenue, LLC: new single-family home at 62 Lake Ave., with multiple bulk variances (front yard 18' vs 25' required)
• Catholic Charities: handicap ramps at 23 Vincent Dr., with front and side yard setback variances
• PSE&G: 20' tall sound wall at 121 St. Andrews Blvd, conditional use variance for temporary and permanent walls
• Memorializing resolutions for Durango Sisters LLC (363 Lakeview Ave.), Yehoshua Allswang (464 South Parkway), and Carlos Lange (473 Highland Ave.)

The Board approved a permanent sound barrier for a PSE&G switching station and granted several residential variances for home expansions and conversions. A self-storage application for Route 46 was carried to September for plan revisions.

• Approved permanent sound wall for PSE&G at 121 St. Andrews Blvd (7-0)
• Approved home expansion and lot coverage variance at 87 Virginia Ave (7-0)
• Approved garage-to-living space conversion at 367 Rutherford Blvd (7-0)
• Approved demolition and new home construction at 62 Lake Ave (7-0)
• Approved group home ramps and parking at 23 Vincent Dr (7-0)
• Approved site plan for restaurant/bar at 363 Lakeview Ave (7-0)
• Approved home addition variances at 464 South Parkway (7-0)
• Approved detached garage variances at 473 Highland Ave (7-0)

City Council

The Clifton City Council will hold a public hearing and vote to adopt the 2024 Municipal Budget. The body will also approve a contract for medical supplies with a not-to-exceed amount of $100,000 through June 30, 2026, and licenses for Spatial Data Logic software. Several ordinances regarding tree removal and handicapped parking are scheduled for first or second reading.

• Adoption of the 2024 Municipal Budget (Resolutions R352-R353)
• Authorization to purchase medical supplies via Bergen County Cooperative, not to exceed $100,000 (Resolution R354)
• Approval of Spatial Data Logic licenses via Bergen County Cooperative (Resolution R355)
• Second reading of Ordinance O-7922-24 amending tree removal and replacement policy
• First reading of four ordinances adjusting handicapped parking spaces (O-7923-24 through O-7926-24)

The City Council adopted the 2024 Municipal Budget in a 5-2 vote, after amending it to move $1,010,000 each from regular Fire and Police salaries into American Rescue Plan-funded salary lines, keeping total department salary figures unchanged. The council also adopted an ordinance amending tree removal and replacement rules, introduced five ordinances on disability committee membership and handicapped parking changes, and approved a $17,500 outside legal counsel contract for an independent workplace harassment and retaliation investigation. A Blaze Smoke Shop continued-use license was tabled, and the council entered executive session on eleven matters including the PBA contract and a tax appeal settlement.

• Adopted 2024 Municipal Budget (5-2; Latona and Sadrakula nay)
• Amended 2024 Municipal Budget to shift $1,010,000 each in Fire and Police salaries to American Rescue Plan funding (5-2; Latona and Sadrakula nay)
• Adopted Ordinance 7922-24 amending tree removal and replacement policy (7-0)
• Introduced Ordinance 7912-24 adding two alternate members to the Advisory Committee for Individuals with Disabilities (7-0)
• Introduced Ordinance 7923-24 deleting 3 handicapped parking spaces (7-0)
• Introduced Ordinance 7924-24 adding 12 restricted handicapped parking spaces (7-0)
• Introduced Ordinance 7925-24 deleting 2 restricted handicapped parking spaces (7-0)
• Introduced Ordinance 7926-24 amending a handicapped parking placard number (7-0)

City Council

The Clifton City Council will vote on several routine maintenance contracts and tax exemption requests for disabled veterans. A public hearing covers the federal CDBG annual action plan for 2024–2025, which outlines how grant funds support local housing and infrastructure projects. The council also holds first and second readings on ordinances updating tree removal policies and replacing the city’s stormwater control regulations.

• Second reading of Ordinance O-7921-24 to replace the entire Stormwater Control code
• Contract award to Fairfield Maintenance for fuel tank repairs via New Jersey State Contract, not to exceed $75000.00 through August 28, 2024
• Contract award to Equiptech LLC for DPW Chipper 126 repairs via ESCNJ cooperative contract, not to exceed $18,135.82
• Public hearing on the CDBG FY 2024 Year 5 Annual Action Plan covering August 1, 2024, through July 31, 2025
• Authorization for electronic tax sale hosting contract with Real Auction.com and tax refund resolutions for disabled veterans at 39 Brownstone Road and 201 Riverwalk Way

The City Council adopted a new ordinance replacing the stormwater control code in its entirety. The council also approved a claims list totaling $13,471,290.64 and granted property tax refunds to two disabled veterans.

• Adopted Ordinance 7921-24 to replace the Stormwater Control code (6-0-0-1)
• Approved $13,471,290.64 in total claims (7-0-0-0)
• Approved $22,327.31 tax refund for disabled veteran at 39 Brownstone Road
• Approved $13,456.91 tax refund for disabled veteran at 201 Riverwalk Way
• Awarded fuel tank maintenance contract to Fairfield Maintenance, Inc. not to exceed $75,000
• Approved developer agreement with iLEARN Schools, Inc. for 400 Mount Prospect Avenue
• Awarded online tax sale hosting contract to RealAuction.Com
• Approved final restaurant licenses for Mira Vie, Chocolate House, and Crab Island Cajun Seafood & Bar

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider a request for an extension of approvals for Meridia Regency on Valley, Clifton LLC. The meeting also includes discussions regarding a minor subdivision at Stuyvesant Court and continued hearings for projects on Metro Blvd & Isabella Street and Mountain Park Road.

• Extension of approvals for Meridia Regency on Valley, Clifton LLC at 1091-1075 Valley Road
• Minor subdivision and lot width variance for 9-11 Stuyvesant Court
• Site plan approval and variance for PB Nutclif Master LLC at Metro Blvd & Isabella Street
• Major subdivision hearing for 112 Mountain Park Road

The Board approved a one-year extension for Meridia Regency on Valley, granted a minor subdivision and variances for Cyrus Garcia, and approved a major site plan with variances for PB Nutclif Master LLC. A major subdivision hearing for Lazo Josifoski was postponed to July 25, 2024. The Board also discussed written comments regarding a Board of Education project, which were submitted to the Zoning Officer after the meeting.

• Approved one-year extension for Meridia Regency on Valley
• Granted minor subdivision and variances for Cyrus Garcia
• Approved final major site plan and variances for PB Nutclif Master LLC
• Postponed Lazo Josifoski major subdivision hearing to July 25, 2024
• Approved May 23, 2024 meeting minutes

Board of Adjustment

The Board is reviewing several applications including a proposed self-storage facility at Route 46 and a Mediterranean restaurant expansion on Lakeview Avenue. Other items include residential additions, sign variances, and an auto repair shop expansion.

• Self-storage facility proposal: 811-813 Rt 46
• Mediterranean restaurant renovation/expansion: 363 Lakeview Ave.
• Residential addition variances: 464 South Parkway
• Garage and accessory structure variances: 473 Highland Ave.
• Signage variances: 1240 Main Ave.

The Board approved major site plans for a 40-unit residential building at TFJ Hazel and a Costco expansion involving a gas station relocation. It also approved several residential additions and an auto care expansion, while denying a variance request for a mixed-use building at 1084-1088 Main Ave. Two hearings, for Ameer Signs and Geeland LLC, were continued to July 17, 2024, due to notice defects and pending testimony.

• Approved TFJ Hazel site plan and variances for 40-unit residential building (7-0)
• Approved Costco variances to relocate gas station and expand parking (7-0)
• Denied Teresa Vargas variances for mixed-use building at 1084-1088 Main Ave (4-0)
• Approved Stelmach Auto Care variance to add towing yard and storage (6-0)
• Approved Yehoshua Allswang variance for two-story home addition (7-0)
• Approved Carlos Lange variance for existing garage after res judicata waiver (7-0)
• Approved David Abramchik variance for home addition and dormer (7-0)
• Continued Ameer Signs and Geeland LLC hearings to July 17, 2024

City Council

The City Council will consider the introduction of the 2024 Municipal Budget. The agenda also includes several resolutions regarding infrastructure, professional services, and developer agreements.

• Introduction of 2024 Municipal Budget (R335)
• Permission to bid for Plog Brook Culvert Rehabilitation funded by ARPA (R303)
• Release of $7,368.00 performance bond for 20 Somerset Place, LLC pending maintenance bond (R302)
• Grant application for Third Street Pedestrian Safety Improvements Phase II (R330)
• Contract award to Dr. Theodore Constandelis for dental services (R331)

City Council

The City Council is reviewing a temporary increase to the 2024 Municipal Budget to cover payroll and operating expenses. Additionally, officials are proposing changes to the city's surplus policy regarding how much fund balance can be used to support annual budgets.

• 2024 Temporary Budget Increase (R275) to fund departmental payroll through June
• Amendment to City Surplus Policy to allow utilization of up to 60% of year-end fund balance
• Contract for design services for Christopher Columbus Middle School pedestrian access tunnel (R278)
• Contract for Civic Plus website management services via SHI Inc. (R279)
• Amendment to Chapter 439-14 regarding McCosh Road parking ordinances (O7920-24)

The Clifton City Council voted 0-7 to reject Ordinance 7909-24, which would have amended restricted parking hours on Van Breemen Drive. It adopted Ordinance 7914-24 creating a new chapter regulating privately owned salt storage facilities, 7-0. The council also approved a $53,377.49 contract with SHI, Inc. for Civic Plus website management services and a $364,276.85 engineering design contract with Greenman-Pedersen, Inc. for the Christopher Columbus Middle School pedestrian tunnel project. Several other ordinances and resolutions were introduced or approved, including multiple outside legal counsel contracts.

• Rejected Ordinance 7909-24 amending restricted parking hours on Van Breemen Drive (0-7)
• Adopted Ordinance 7914-24 creating Chapter 372 regulating privately owned salt storage facilities (7-0)
• Tabled Ordinance 7912-24 adding two alternate members to the Advisory Committee for Individuals with Disabilities (7-0)
• Approved $53,377.49 contract with SHI, Inc. for Civic Plus website management services (7-0)
• Approved $364,276.85 contract with Greenman-Pedersen, Inc. for engineering design of Christopher Columbus Middle School pedestrian tunnel improvements (7-0)
• Approved $2,753,312.82 claims list (6-1, Sadrakula nay)
• Approved $100,000 contract with W.W. Grainger for industrial supplies (6-1, Sadrakula nay)
• Approved $5,000 contract with DeCotiis, FitzPatrick, Cole & Giblin for environmental counsel (6-1, Sadrakula nay)

Board of Adjustment

The Board is reviewing several continued hearings regarding commercial and residential developments. New hearings include a Mediterranean restaurant renovation and a 40-unit mid-rise residential building project.

• Self-storage facility proposal at 811-813 Rt 46
• Mixed commercial and residential building at 1084-1088 Main Ave.
• Auto repair shop expansion at 1 Grove St. & 1425 Broad St.
• Mediterranean restaurant renovation at 363 Lakeview Ave.
• 40-unit multi-family residential building at 252 Hazel St. & 237 West 3rd St.

The Board approved a 40-unit mid-rise residential building at 252 Hazel St. and 237 West 3rd St. following a court-ordered remand. A mixed-use proposal for Main Ave was denied due to parking deficiencies, while a use variance for an auto repair shop was approved.

• Approved 40-unit residential building at 252 Hazel St. & 237 West 3rd St. (7-0)
• Denied mixed-use building at 1084-1088 Main Ave due to parking deficiency (4-3)
• Approved use variance for Stelmach Auto Care at 1 Grove St. to include towed vehicle storage (6-1)
• Approved home addition and alterations at 18 Conover Ct. (7-0)
• Approved second-floor addition and renovations at 15 Runyon Rd. (7-0)
• Approved May 15, 2024 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Continued hearing for Durango Sisters LLC at 363 Lakeview Ave to June 19, 2024
• Continued hearing for Geeland, LLC at 811-813 Rt 46 to June 19, 2024

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider a major site plan for PB Nutclif Master LLC at Metro Blvd & Isabella Street. Other items include subdivision requests for properties on Mt. Washington Drive, Stuyvesant Court, and Mountain Park Road.

• Extension of approvals for Meridia Regency on Valley, Clifton LLC at 1091-1075 Valley Road
• Two lot subdivision by Hamdan Home Builders LLC at 2 Mt. Washington Drive
• Major site plan and variance for PB Nutclif Master LLC at Metro Blvd & Isabella Street
• Minor subdivision and lot width variance for Cyrus Garcia at 9-11 Stuyvesant Court
• Major subdivision for Lazo Josifoski at 112 Mountain Park Road

The Board approved a minor subdivision at Stuyvesant Court and granted a one-year approval extension for a project on Valley Road. A resolution for an Environmental Resource Inventory was adopted, and a subdivision at Mt. Washington Drive was approved.

• Approved one-year approval extension for Meridia Regency on Valley, Clifton LLC at 1091-1075 Valley Road (7-2)
• Approved resolution adopting the Environmental Resource Inventory report
• Adopted resolution granting subdivision approval and variances for Hamdan Home Builders LLC at 2 Mt. Washington Drive
• Approved minor subdivision and variance for Cyrus Garcia at 9-11 Stuyvesant Court (9-0)
• Required Cyrus Garcia to raise garage floor by one foot and remove no trees as conditions of approval
• Tabled major subdivision for Lazo Josifoski at 112 Mountain Park Road to July 25, 2024
• Required PB Nutclif Master LLC to meet with Neglia to resolve report issues regarding Metro Blvd and Isabella Street

Board of Adjustment

The Board is reviewing an application from Costco Wholesale Corporation regarding site plan changes at 168 and 20 Main Avenue & 20 Bridewell Place. The proposal includes demolishing a vacant building on Lot 36 to create customer parking and expanding the fueling station from 8 to 12 dispensers.

• Demolition of vacant building on Lot 36 for new parking
• Expansion of fueling station from 8 to 12 dispensers
• Relocation of fueling station on Lot 38
• Request for setback and conditional use variances

The Board of Adjustment approved an application by Costco Wholesale Corp. to demolish a gym, expand its parking lot, and relocate its fueling station. The project includes adding four gas pumps and a new entrance driveway from Main Avenue.

• Approved use variance to demolish existing fueling station and expand parking (7-0)
• Approved D3 conditional use variance to relocate gas station within 1,000 feet of a public park (7-0)
• Approved bulk variance for accessory structure front yard setback (7-0)
• Approved bulk variance for parking in the front yard (7-0)
• Approved bulk variance for loading bay width (7-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider several infrastructure and service contracts, including advertising for bids on sanitary sewer improvements funded by ARPA. The agenda also includes approvals for a new police vehicle, opioid overdose tracking software, and ordinances regarding salt storage and parking. Additionally, the council will discuss topics such as a new firehouse and professional service caps.

• Bidding for sanitary sewer improvements at Passaic Avenue and Allwood Road
• Contract award for Swift 911 Mass Notification System services
• Purchase of a 2024 GMC Yukon for the Police Department
• Contract for software to track opioid overdose incidents
• Ordinance regulating privately owned salt storage facilities

The Clifton City Council approved a claims list totaling $36,080,398.13 and authorized bids for sanitary sewer improvements on Passaic Avenue and Allwood Road. Several legal service contracts were awarded, including special counsel for affordable housing litigation and environmental counsel. The Council also adopted ordinances regarding street cleaning parking, sick leave revisions, and park events, while tabling a parking ordinance for Van Breeman Drive.

• Approved claims list totaling $36,080,398.13
• Authorized bids for sanitary sewer improvements on Passaic Ave and Allwood Road
• Adopted Ordinance 7910-24 for street cleaning parking on Caroline, Rosalie, and Mina Avenues (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 7911-24 revising sick and terminal leave for confidential employees (6-0-1)
• Adopted Ordinance 7913-24 amending rules for bazaars and festivals (5-2)
• Tabled Ordinance 7909-24 regarding parking on Van Breeman Drive pending a survey (7-0)
• Failed to approve purchase of 2024 GMC Yukon for Police Chief (3-3-1)
• Awarded contract to DeCotiis, FitzPatrick, Cole & Giblin LLP for affordable housing litigation counsel

Board of Adjustment

The Board is reviewing several continued hearings regarding commercial replacements, self-storage facilities, and auto shop expansions. New business includes a residential addition on Runyon Road and a multi-family mid-rise project on Hazel Street.

• Proposed 2-story mixed commercial and residential building at 1084-1088 Main Ave.
• Proposed 4-story, 125,200 sq ft self-storage facility at 811-813 Rt 46.
• Expansion of auto repair shop to include towing yard and storage at 1 Grove St. & 1425 Broad St.
• Residential addition with bulk variances at 18 Conover Ct.
• Second-floor residential addition at 15 Runyon Rd.

The Board approved variance requests for residential additions at 18 Conover Court and 15 Runyon Road. Additionally, the Board adopted memorializing resolutions for a multifamily building at 66 West 2nd Street and an auto body shop expansion on Trimble Avenue.

• Approved rear yard setback and 1/2 story variances for 18 Conover Ct. (7-0)
• Approved front and side yard setback variances for 2nd story addition at 15 Runyon Rd. (7-0)
• Adopted resolution approving 3-family residential building at 66 West 2nd Street (4-0)
• Adopted resolution approving auto body shop expansion at 204/214/217 Trimble Ave. (5-0)
• Approved May 1, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Continued application for 1084-1088 Main Ave. to June 5, 2024
• Continued application for 811-813 Rt 46 to June 5, 2024
• Continued application for 1 Grove St. & 1425 Broad St. to June 5, 2024

City Council

The City Council will review resolutions to increase the 2024 temporary municipal budget using available grants. The agenda also includes ordinances regarding traffic changes and street cleaning schedules, as well as several contract approvals for city services.

• Temporary budget increases for the 2024 Municipal Budget (R217-R218)
• Contract for HVAC repairs at City Hall (R221)
• Purchase of a GMC Yukon for the Police Department (R227)
• New 'No Stopping or Standing' zone on Van Houten Avenue (O-7904-24)
• Street cleaning schedule changes for Caroline, Rosalie, and Mina Avenues (O-7910-24)

The City Council approved a claims list totaling $27,653,579.09 and passed several ordinances regarding handicapped and restricted parking. The Council also voted to require most city employees to clock in and out and authorized various equipment purchases for public safety.

• Approved claims list totaling $27,653,579.09
• Approved Ordinance 7904-24 adding no stopping zone on Van Houten Avenue (7-0-0-0)
• Approved Ordinance 7905-24 deleting 13 handicapped spaces (7-0-0-0)
• Approved Ordinance 7906-24 adding 7 restricted handicapped spaces (7-0-0-0)
• Approved Ordinance 7907-24 deleting 5 handicapped spaces (7-0-0-0)
• Approved Ordinance 7908-24 amending handicapped parking placard number (7-0-0-0)
• Required all employees except the Municipal Judge to clock in and out (5-2-0-0)
• Authorized $115,223.05 contract for Stryker equipment maintenance over three years

Board of Adjustment

The Board is reviewing several continued hearings and new applications regarding property variances. Items include a proposed 125,200 sq ft self-storage facility on Route 46 and expansions for local auto body shops.

• Proposed 125,200 sq ft self-storage facility at 811-813 Rt 46
• Mixed commercial and residential building proposed for 1084-1088 Main Ave.
• Expansion of auto body shop services at 204/214/217 Trimble Ave.
• Expansion of auto repair shop including towing yard at 1 Grove St. & 1425 Broad St.
• New house of worship proposed for 411-415 Main Ave.

The Board approved a use variance for Trimble Auto Body to add towing and storage, and granted variances for six residential projects and a new house of worship. Applications for Stelmach Auto Care, Ivan Cabarcas, and Geeland LLC were adjourned or continued to later dates for further review. Two other applications were carried to future meetings.

• Approved Trimble Auto Body towing/storage expansion (7-0)
• Approved Ivan Cabarcas 3-unit conversion with conditions (6-1)
• Approved Jonathan & Naomi Leb home conversion variances (5-0)
• Approved Helmut Angel second-floor addition variance (5-0)
• Approved Gregory Lewis deck variance (5-0)
• Approved Jose Pineda & Monica Pyryt home addition variances (5-0)
• Approved Abed Abdelrahman home addition variances (5-0)
• Approved Passaic Clifton Community Kollel Congregation site plan (5-0)

Planning Board

The board will receive a presentation on the Environmental Resource Inventory for the Master Plan. The meeting also includes continued hearings regarding several property subdivisions.

• Presentation of Environmental Resource Inventory for the Master Plan
• Two lot subdivision at 2 Mt. Washington Drive
• Minor subdivision and variance at 9-11 Stuyvesant Court
• Major subdivision at 112 Mountain Park Road

The Board adopted the 2024 Environmental Resource Inventory report to be attached to the City's Master Plan. A two-lot subdivision and variance for 2 Mt. Washington Drive was approved with conditions regarding tree preservation. Two other subdivision hearings were carried to May 23, 2024.

• Adopted 2024 Environmental Resource Inventory as an Element of the Master Plan (Unanimous)
• Approved minor site plan and variances for 2 Mt. Washington Drive with tree preservation conditions (9-0)
• Carried hearing for 9-11 Stuyvesant Court to May 23, 2024
• Carried hearing for 112 Mountain Park Road to May 23, 2024
• Approved minutes of the March 28, 2024 meeting

Board of Adjustment

The Board is reviewing new requests for residential additions and a house of worship site plan. Several previously submitted commercial and residential applications were continued to future meeting dates.

• Proposed 5,893 sq ft house of worship at 411-415 Main Ave
• Continued hearing for 125,200 sq ft self-storage facility at 811-813 Rt 46
• New residential addition applications for Adams Terrace and Sargeant Ave
• Re-approval of a two-family home application for 610 Gregory Ave

The Board approved a conditional use application for a new house of worship on Main Avenue and granted bulk variances for four residential additions. Several other applications were carried to future meeting dates.

• Approved house of worship at 411-415 Main Ave with 100-seat limit and site modifications
• Approved residential addition at 58 Parson Road
• Approved master bedroom addition at 14 Adams Terrace
• Approved 10’ x 15.6’ deck at 5 Wester Place
• Approved residential additions and renovations at 45 Sargeant Ave
• Approved partial first floor addition at 269 Union Ave
• Approved memorializing resolutions for 190 Beverly Hill Rd, 399 South Parkway, and 610 Gregory Ave
• Approved minutes of the April 3, 2024 meeting

City Council

The City Council will review several contract awards, including police radio maintenance and fire department services. The agenda also includes ordinances to change parking regulations on various streets and permission to bid on park improvements. Personnel changes within the Public Works and Finance departments are also noted.

• Permission to bid for Stefan Tatarenko Memorial Park improvements
• Contract award for police vehicle mobile radio maintenance
• Mold remediation contract for Zalenka Park Field House
• Ordinance changes for parking on Van Houten Avenue and Van Breeman Drive
• Right-of-way agreement for a PSE&G transformer at 125 Clifton Boulevard

The City Council awarded a three-year emergency medical billing contract to Coronis Health RCM LLC. Council members approved a new loading zone on Columbia Street and introduced several ordinances regarding handicapped parking and stopping zones. A request for a right-of-way agreement with PSEG was denied.

• Approved emergency medical billing contract with Coronis Health RCM LLC (6-1)
• Approved $49,385.59 for Housing and Zoning office furniture (5-2)
• Approved $6,875 for Police Department license plate reader licenses (6-1)
• Adopted Ordinance 7903-24 adding a loading zone on Columbia Street (7-0)
• Denied right-of-way agreement for PSEG at 125 Clifton Blvd (0-7)
• Approved $39,482 contract with Siteone Landscape Supply for trees
• Approved $8,870.15 for mold remediation at Zalenka Park Field House
• Introduced ordinances for new and deleted handicapped parking spaces (7-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Board is reviewing several applications for property developments, including a large self-storage facility and residential conversions. The meeting also includes an executive session to discuss a litigation settlement regarding Hazel Street properties.

• Proposed 125,200 sq ft self-storage facility at 811-813 Rt 46
• Request to replace a commercial building with a 3-family house at 66 West 2nd Street
• Proposal for mixed commercial and residential use at 1084-1088 Main Ave
• Discussion of litigation settlement for properties at 252 Hazel Street
• Approval of a four-car garage expansion at 59 Durant Ave

The Clifton Zoning Board of Adjustment approved three residential variance applications: a dormer addition at 190 Beverly Hill Rd, a first-floor addition at 399 South Parkway (5-1), and a new two-family home at 610 Gregory Ave. The Board also authorized a settlement agreement in TJF Hazel, LLC v. City of Clifton, reducing a previously denied 54-unit building to 40 units, with a hearing set for May 15, 2024. Several applications were carried to later dates, including a self-storage facility and a mixed-use building on Main Avenue.

• Approved dormer addition at 190 Beverly Hill Rd (6-0)
• Approved first-floor addition at 399 South Parkway (5-1, Eramo against)
• Approved new two-family home at 610 Gregory Ave (7-0)
• Authorized settlement in TJF Hazel, LLC v. City of Clifton for 40 residential units (unanimous)
• Carried GEELAND, LLC self-storage facility to May 1, 2024
• Carried IVAN CABARCAS 3-family house to April 17, 2024
• Carried JONATHAN & NAOMI LEB single-family conversion to April 17, 2024
• Carried JOSH LOWY addition to May 15, 2024

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several financial matters including $14.4 million in annual pension obligations. The agenda also includes temporary budget increases for municipal operations and a proposal for new budgeting software.

• Annual pension payments totaling $14,419,779.00
• Temporary 2024 Municipal and Sewer Utility budget increases
• Proposed ClearGov software subscription for budget transparency
• Ordinance to establish permit parking on Cutler Street
• Ordinance to amend various handicapped parking regulations

The City Council adopted seven ordinances on second reading, covering handicapped parking changes, permit parking on Cutler Street, rescinding permit parking on Harrington Road, and a change to the Advisory Committee on Civil Rights membership terms. A motion to pass six legal-services resolutions (R181-24 through R186-24) failed on a 2-1-3-1 roll call vote, with Councilman Kolodziej and Mayor Grabowski voting aye, Councilwoman Sadrakula voting nay, and Councilman Latona, Councilman D'Amato and Councilwoman Pino abstaining; Councilman Gibson was absent. The Council also introduced Ordinance 7903-24 adding a loading zone on Columbia Street and set a public hearing for April 16, 2024. During public comment, residents raised quality-of-life issues around the Mosque on Pershing Road, the planned demolition of the Allwood Theatre, and crime; the Council moved to place parking issues on Pershing Road and retiree accumulated sick pay on future agendas.

• Adopted Ordinance 7896-24 deleting 1 handicapped parking space (6-0-0-1)
• Adopted Ordinance 7897-24 adding 7 restricted handicapped spaces (6-0-0-1)
• Adopted Ordinance 7898-24 deleting 1 restricted handicapped space (6-0-0-1)
• Adopted Ordinance 7899-24 amending a handicapped parking placard number (6-0-0-1)
• Adopted Ordinance 7900-24 establishing permit parking on Cutler Street between Ackerman Avenue and Center Street (6-0-0-1)
• Adopted Ordinance 7901-24 rescinding permit parking on Harrington Road from Chelsea Road to Clairmont Road (6-0-0-1)
• Adopted Ordinance 7902-24 amending membership and terms of the Advisory Committee on Civil Rights (6-0-0-1)
• Introduced Ordinance 7903-24 adding a loading zone on Columbia Street; public hearing set for April 16, 2024 (6-0-0-1)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider an amended site plan for 246 Barkley Avenue. The meeting also includes hearings for a two-lot subdivision on Mt. Washington Drive, a minor subdivision at Stuyvesant Court, and a major subdivision at Mountain Park Road.

• Amended site plan with bulk variances: 246 Barkley Avenue
• Two lot subdivision: A 2 Mt. Washington Drive
• Minor subdivision and lot width variance: 9-11 Stuyvesant Court
• Major subdivision: 112 Mountain Park Road

The Board approved an amended site plan with bulk variances for a property on Barkley Avenue. Two other subdivision applications were carried to future meetings to address drainage, runoff, and ordinance compliance.

• Approved amended site plan with bulk variances for 246 Barkley Avenue
• Approved February 22, 2024 meeting minutes
• Carried minor subdivision application for 9-11 Stuyvesant Court to April 25, 2004
• Carried major subdivision application for 112 Mountain Park Road to May 23, 2004

Board of Adjustment

The Board is reviewing several applications for site plans, use variances, and bulk variances. Items include a proposed self-storage facility on Route 46 and various single-family home expansions.

• Proposed 125,200 sq ft self-storage facility at 811-813 Rt 46
• Mixed commercial and residential building proposed for 1084-1088 Main Ave.
• Conversion of a shop/one-family residence to a shop/two-family residence at 802 Van Houten Ave.
• New single-family residence with multiple setbacks and lot coverage variances at 43 Garfield Ave.
• Expansion of a two-car garage into a four-car garage at 59 Durant Ave.

The Board approved a mixed-use building at 802 Van Houten Ave and several residential variances for home additions and parking. One application for a home conversion was carried to a future meeting due to concerns over roof height.

• Approved mixed-use building and single-family home renovation at 802 Van Houten Ave
• Approved residential variances for new home construction at 43 Garfield Ave
• Approved rear addition and deck variances at 63 Cresthill Ave
• Approved lot coverage variance for two gazebos at 259 Vernon Ave (6-1)
• Approved garage expansion for pharmacy parking at 59 Durant Ave
• Carried application for 58 Parson Road to April 17 to address roof height concerns
• Adopted memorializing resolutions for 11 Penobscot St, 5 Milton Ave, and 12 Milton Ave
• Approved corrected resolution for 245-247 Parker Ave regarding bedroom counts

City Council

The City Council is reviewing resolutions for emergency budget increases to fund pension obligations and garbage contracts. The agenda also includes a proposed $10,000,000 bond sale and several contract awards for city services. Additionally, the council will consider ordinances regarding residential parking and handicapped spaces.

• Emergency budget increases for pension obligations and garbage contracts (R125-R127)
• Bond Anticipation Note sale of up to $10,000,000 (R130)
• Sewer extension approval for The Vistas at Vincent LLC development (R131)
• Ordinances regarding residential street parking and handicapped spaces
• Contract award for Police Officer Scheduling System (R134)

The City Council approved emergency temporary appropriations for the municipal and sewer utility budgets. Several contracts were awarded for police scheduling, tax map maintenance, and park improvements, while a broadband maintenance contract was tabled.

• Approved $23,419,779 emergency municipal budget increase (5-1-0-1)
• Approved $5,320,052 emergency sewer utility budget increase (5-1-0-1)
• Authorized sale of up to $10M in Bond Anticipation Notes (5-1-0-1)
• Approved $48,000 contract for tax map maintenance GIS support (5-1-0-1)
• Approved $20,343.20 contract for Police Officer Scheduling System (5-1-0-1)
• Approved $42,400 for Power of One Christian Coaching food distribution (5-1-0-1)
• Tabled Windstream Enterprise broadband maintenance contract (6-0-0-1)
• Adopted Ordinance 7895-24 to establish process to rescind permit parking (6-0-0-1)

Board of Adjustment

The Board is reviewing several applications involving site plans, use variances, and bulk relief. Items include a proposed self-storage facility on Route 46 and various residential additions or conversions.

• Proposed 125,200 sq ft self-storage facility at 811-813 Rt 46
• Conversion of shop/one family residence to shop/two family residence at 802 Van Houten Ave.
• Replacement of one-story commercial structure with a 2-story mixed use building at 1084-1088 Main Ave.
• Proposed 6-unit residential apartment building at 5 Milton Ave.
• Proposed 307.22 sq ft addition and garage at 12 Milton Ave.

The Board approved a new indoor soccer practice arena and a 4-unit residential building. It also granted a variance for a home addition and approved a previous residential variance resolution.

• Approved indoor soccer practice facility at 11 Penobscot Street (7-0)
• Approved 4-unit apartment building at 5 Milton Ave (7-0)
• Approved home addition and garage at 12 Milton Ave (7-0)
• Approved variance for home addition at 23 Stanley Street (7-0)
• Approved February 7, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Voted to consider revised application to settle TJF Hazel, LLC litigation (unanimous)
• Continued Geeland, LLC application to April 3, 2024
• Continued Quicks Realty LLC application to March 20, 2024

City Council

The City Council will consider resolutions for 2024 temporary budget increases and special emergency budget increases. The agenda includes approvals for professional service contracts and playground equipment for Oak Ridge Park. The council will also review ordinances related to snow removal and residential handicapped parking.

• 2024 Temporary Budget Increase Number 2 (R104)
• $35,000 grant acceptance for the Code Blue Warming Center (R117)
• Purchase of playground equipment and safety surface for Oak Ridge Park (R111, R112)
• Ordinance to change snow and ice removal time from 12 to 24 hours (O-7888-24)
• Changes to residential handicapped parking spaces (O-7891-24, O-7892-24, O-7893-24)

The Clifton City Council approved a $23.4 million special emergency appropriation for pension and other costs, alongside a $5.3 million sewer utility emergency appropriation. The council rejected a resolution to use ARPA grant funds for a salaried employee's salary and benefits. Several ordinances were adopted, including changes to snow removal time limits, handicapped parking spaces, and body piercing licensing.

• Approved $23.4M emergency municipal budget appropriation (5-2)
• Approved $5.3M emergency sewer utility budget appropriation (5-2)
• Rejected ARPA grant funding for salaried employee (2-5)
• Adopted ordinance extending snow removal deadline to 24 hours (7-0)
• Adopted ordinance establishing licensing for body piercing (6-1)
• Approved $25K contract for psychological evaluation services (5-2)
• Approved $50K contract for medical services (5-2)
• Rescinded notice of levy cap referendum

Planning Board

The Clifton Planning Board will consider an amended site plan for 246 Barkley Avenue and a two-lot subdivision at 2 Mt. Washington Drive. The meeting also includes confirming professional appointments and approving January meeting minutes.

• Amended site plan with bulk variances for 246 Barkley Avenue
• Two lot subdivision for 2 Mt. Washington Drive
• Confirmation of Planning Board professional appointments
• Approval of January reorganization and regular meeting minutes

The Board approved an amended site plan and bulk variances for a second-floor addition at 246 Barkley Avenue. A request for a two-lot minor subdivision at 2 Mt. Washington Drive was carried to a future meeting.

• Approved January 25, 2024 minutes
• Adopted resolution appointing 2024 staff and professionals
• Approved amended site plan and bulk variances for 246 Barkley Avenue (8-1)
• Carried two-lot minor subdivision at 2 Mt. Washington Drive to April 25, 2024

Board of Adjustment

The Board reviewed several ongoing applications and new hearing requests for residential and commercial developments. The board also approved resolutions for a minor subdivision on Huron Ave and an addition on Parson Rd.

• Continued hearing for 125,200 sq ft self-storage facility at 811-813 Rt 46
• New hearing for mixed commercial/residential building at 1084-1088 Main Ave
• Proposed single-family home addition at 23 Stanley Street
• Approval of minor subdivision and two-family residence at 147 Huron Ave
• Approval of residential addition at 20 Parson Rd

The Board approved bulk variances for a second-story addition to a single-family home. Two previous applications for residential additions and subdivisions were also formally adopted via resolution. Several other commercial and residential applications were continued or adjourned.

• Approved bulk variances for second-story addition at 23 Stanley Street (7-0)
• Adopted resolution approving variance relief for addition at 20 Parson Rd (6-0)
• Adopted resolution approving minor subdivision and variances for two-family residence at 147 Huron Ave (6-0)
• Approved February 7, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Continued Geeland, LLC application (811-813 Rt 46) to April 3, 2024
• Continued Data Delay Devices, Inc. application (11 Penobscot Street) to March 6, 2024
• Continued I.R. Property Management LLC application (5 Milton Ave) to March 6, 2024
• Continued Quicks Realty LLC application (802 Van Houten Ave) to March 6, 2024

City Council

The City Council is considering several infrastructure projects, including Weasel Brook culvert replacements funded by ARPA. The agenda also includes various ordinance updates regarding salaries, snow removal, and handicapped parking.

• Contract award for Weasel Brook culvert replacement to State Line Construction
• Professional construction management services contract for Weasel Brook to Boswell Engineering
• Purchase of a 2024 Ford F-250 XL 4WD from Nielsen Ford LLC
• Ordinance to amend snow and ice removal time from 12 to 24 hours
• Ordinance updates regarding handicapped parking on streets and private residences

The City Council awarded a $1,594,985 contract to State Line Construction for culvert replacement at Weasel Brook. Council also approved several salary and parking ordinances and rescinded a notice for a levy cap referendum.

• Awarded $1,594,985 culvert replacement contract to State Line Construction
• Approved $98,750 construction management contract for Boswell Engineering
• Approved $77,991.79 purchase of a 2024 Ford F-250 for the Fire Department (5-2)
• Rescinded resolution for notice of levy cap referendum (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 7887-24 amending confidential employee compensation (7-0)
• Approved Ordinance 7883-24 amending handicapped parking placard numbers (7-0)
• Approved $50,000 CDBG-CV grant for St. Peter's Haven food pantry
• Approved entertainment license for Agave Cantina Tapas Mexicanas

Board of Adjustment

The Board of Adjustment is reviewing several applications for property developments and variances. Key items include a large self-storage project on Route 46 and a new six-unit apartment building on Milton Avenue. Several hearings were continued to future meeting dates.

• Proposed 125,200 sq ft self-storage facility at 811-813 Rt 46
• Residential expansion and second-floor addition at 20 Parson Rd
• Proposed 6-unit residential apartment building at 5 Milton Ave
• Subdivision of 147 Huron Ave into two separate lots
• Conversion of 802 Van Houten Ave to a shop/two-family residence

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved Asher and Aliza Witty's plan to expand a one-story home at 20 Parson Rd. with a second floor, rear addition and front portico, and approved Elidia Perez's minor subdivision at 147 Huron Ave. to create two lots, one with a new two-family home and one with the existing VFW building, subject to revised plans. The continued hearing on Geeland, LLC's proposed 4-story self-storage facility at 811-813 Route 46 was carried to April 3, 2024, with no further notice. The Board also adopted the minutes of its January 17, 2024 meeting and adjourned.

• Approved Asher & Aliza Witty's home expansion at 20 Parson Rd. with variances (7-0)
• Approved Elidia Perez's minor subdivision at 147 Huron Ave. with variances, subject to revised plans enclosing exterior stairs and using two double garage doors (7-0)
• Continued Geeland, LLC's self-storage application at 811-813 Route 46 to April 3, 2024
• Adopted minutes of the January 17, 2024 regular meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will consider several administrative actions, including budget transfers and contract renewals for sewer repairs and fire department equipment. The meeting includes public hearings regarding park improvements and food pantry funding. The council will also review ordinances related to traffic parking and employee compensation.

• Appointment of a new member to the Municipal Council to fill the vacancy left by Lauren Murphy
• Contract renewal for LSRP services at five remediation sites, including DPW and Firehouses #3 and #6
• Change order for an ambulance remount contract with P.L Custom Emergency Vehicles
• Public hearing on Green Acres Program improvements at Main Memorial Park
• Ordinance to amend sanitary sewer user charges

The City Council approved several professional service contracts for site remediation and fire department equipment. The council also modified handicapped parking spaces and rescinded permit parking on Harrington Road. Additionally, the Code Blue program was renamed in memory of Councilwoman Lauren Murphy.

• Approved $178,150 contract with Environmental Resolutions, Inc. for site remediation
• Approved $108,338.60 software maintenance contract for 9-1-1 Purvis Fire Station Alerting System
• Approved $500,000 estimated purchase of road rock salt from Morton Salt
• Approved $70,000 for fire department personal protective equipment from Action Fire Apparatus Company
• Rescinded permit parking on Harrington Road (7-0-0-0)
• Approved adding 3 restricted handicapped spaces (7-0-0-0) and deleting 3 others (6-0-0-1)
• Named the Code Blue program after Councilwoman Murphy (7-0-0-0)
• Approved $40,000 shared services agreement with Passaic County for Davidson Avenue Bridge repairs

Planning Board

The Planning Board is conducting a reorganization meeting to elect board officers and professional staff. This includes nominations for Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary/Counsel, Engineer, Planner, Landscape Architect, Traffic Engineer, and Board Stenographer.

• Election of Chairperson
• Election of Vice Chairperson
• Election of Secretary/Counsel
• Election of Engineer
• Election of Planner

The Planning Board held a reorganization meeting to appoint its officers and professional service providers for 2024. All appointments were approved without opposition.

• Appointed Susan Kolodziej as Chair
• Appointed John Withers as Vice Chair
• Appointed Bruno & Ferraro, Esqs. as Board Attorney with a 3% increase over 2023
• Appointed Neglia Engineering as Board Engineer, Landscape Architect and Traffic Engineer
• Appointed Jill Hartmann as Board Planner on a month-to-month basis
• Appointed Laura Carucci as Board Stenographer

Planning Board

The Clifton Planning Board will hold a regular meeting at City Hall. The agenda includes approval of minutes and reports from the Commissioner and City Planner.

• Approval of minutes
• Ordinance review
• Commissioner's reports
• City Planner's reports

The Clifton Planning Board approved the minutes from its December 2023 regular meeting. The board discussed the status of the Zoning Ordinance review Sub-Committee and scheduled a follow-up meeting for the coming weeks. No other substantive decisions or actions were taken during this session.

• Approved December 2023 regular meeting minutes
• Discussed status of Zoning Ordinance review Sub-Committee
• Scheduled follow-up meeting for Zoning Ordinance review

Board of Adjustment

The Board held new hearings for a six-unit residential building at 5 Milton Ave and various property variances. Two previous applications regarding a self-storage facility and a home expansion were continued to February 7, 2004. The meeting also included the adoption of resolutions for recent application approvals and denials.

• Proposed 6-unit residential apartment building at 5 Milton Ave
• Conversion of 802 Van Houten Ave. to a shop/two-family residence
• Variance request for 11 Penobscot Street regarding yard setbacks and parking
• Proposed 2.5-story addition at 12 Milton Ave

The Clifton Zoning Board of Adjustment denied variance requests for two properties seeking to convert single-family homes to two-family dwellings. The Board approved five other applications, including a site plan for Madeline Investments, a use variance for Call The Ball Billiards, and a side yard setback variance for the Hillsberg residence. Three new hearings were continued to future dates, and one application was dismissed for improper notice.

• Denied Vidal Rodriguez variance to convert 56 Myrtle Ave to two-family (7-0)
• Denied Brad Perna & Mayra Munoz variance to convert 7 Clifton Terrace to two-family (7-0)
• Approved Neil & Meryl Hillsberg side yard setback variance for 54 Witherspoon Rd addition (7-0)
• Approved Peter Mastriano/Madeline Investments site plan and parking variances for 125 Madeline Ave (7-0)
• Approved Call The Ball Billiards use variance and site plan for 1142 Rt 46 kitchen/bar addition (7-0)
• Dismissed Eddy Cordova application for 12 Milton Ave due to improper notice
• Carried Quicks Realty LLC application for 802 Van Houten Ave to March 20, 2024
• Carried I.R. Property Management LLC application for 5 Milton Ave to March 6, 2024

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several administrative actions including salary range adjustments for various titles and the renewal of multiple local business licenses. The meeting includes a public hearing regarding a $6,000 transfer of Community Development funds and the acceptance of a $17,500 grant for Code Blue warming center security.

• Transfer of $6,000 from Saint Peter's Homeless Outreach Program to Public Facilities
• Acceptance of $17,500 Passaic County Human Services Pilot Program Grant for Code Blue security
• Approval of salary ranges for various city titles
• Renewal of licenses for car lots, vending, pet shops, and limousine services
• Contract extension for DPW uniform rental, cleaning, and management services

The Clifton City Council approved a claims list totaling $13,534,492.25 and authorized a one-year extension of the Department of Public Works uniform contract for up to $50,000. The Council also passed two salary ordinances, awarded contracts for geese control and medical services, and appointed new members to the Board of Recreation and Advisory Committee for Individuals with Disabilities. Several first-reading ordinances regarding handicapped parking and budget appropriations were introduced or tabled for future consideration.

• Approved claims list totaling $13,534,492.25 (5-0-1-0)
• Extended DPW uniform contract with American Wear Uniforms for up to $50,000 (5-0-1-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 7879-24 amending City Clerk salaries (6-0-0-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 7880-24 amending Public Safety Telecommunicator salaries (6-0-0-0)
• Awarded geese control contract to Birds Beware, Inc. for $18,960 (5-0-1-0)
• Awarded medical services contract to Totowa Primary Care Center for up to $50,000 (5-0-1-0)
• Appointed Dominic Iannarella to Board of Recreation (5-1-0-0)
• Tabled Ordinance 7878-24 regarding CAP Bank and budget limits (6-0-0-0)

Board of Adjustment

The Board is reviewing several applications, including a proposal for a 4-story self-storage facility at 811-813 Rt 46. Other items include requests to convert single-family homes into two-family homes and an expansion of a billiards hall's food service capabilities.

• Proposed 125,200 sq ft self-storage facility at 811-813 Rt 46
• Single-family to two-family conversion at 56 Myrtle Ave.
• Single-family to two-family conversion at 7 Clifton Terrace
• Home expansion and second floor addition at 20 Parson Rd.
• New dwelling setback variance at 54 Witherspoon Rd.

The Board denied two applications to convert single-family homes into two-family dwellings. It approved a side yard variance for a home addition and granted site plan and use variances for a residential conversion and a billiard hall expansion.

• Appointed Mark Zecchino as Chairperson and Gerard Scorziello as Vice Chairperson (Unanimous)
• Denied conversion of 56 Myrtle Ave to two-family home (7-0)
• Denied conversion of 7 Clifton Terrace to two-family home (7-0)
• Approved side yard setback variance for addition at 54 Witherspoon Rd (7-0)
• Approved site plan and parking variances for 125 Madeline Ave (7-0)
• Approved D(2) variance and site plan for kitchen/bar addition at 1142 Rt 46 (7-0)
• Approved rear yard setback variance for 20 Spencer Ave (5-0)
• Appointed Jessica Sweet as Counsel Secretary and John D. Pogorelec as Special Counsel (5-0)

City Council

The Clifton City Council is meeting to adopt 2024 annual financial resolutions and budget transfers. The agenda includes discussions on draft ordinances for anti-nepotism and sanitary sewer user charges. The council will also consider several infrastructure contracts and professional service agreements.

• Contract award to John Garcia Construction for Shafto Street, Getty Avenue, and Van Winkle Avenue sanitary sewer replacement
• Adoption of 2024 Annual Financial Resolutions (R002-R005)
• Introduction of the 2024 COLA Ordinance (O7878)
• Final payment for 2021 NJDOT sidewalk and curb improvements via Granada Construction Corp
• Permission to advertise for bids for Weasel Brook culvert replacement

The Council adopted a 2024 temporary municipal budget and sewer utility budget. Several professional service contracts were awarded for medical, lead testing, and veterinary services. The Council also approved multiple business license renewals and appointed members to various city boards.

• Approved 2024 Temporary Municipal Budget and Debt Service totaling $40,169,851.92 (5-1-0-1)
• Approved 2024 Temporary Sewer Utility Budget and Debt Service totaling $5,093,063.75 (6-0-0-1)
• Awarded $231,667.80 sanitary sewer replacement contract to John Garcia Construction (6-0-0-1)
• Approved lease for Canon photocopiers not to exceed $71,805.60 annually (5-1-0-1)
• Awarded professional services contracts to EMSL Analytical ($100,000) and Totowa Primary Care Center (up to $50,000) (6-0-0-1 and 3-2-1-1)
• Awarded veterinary services contract to Friends of the Shelter, Inc. not to exceed $48,500 (6-0-0-1)
• Tabled Ordinance 7873-24 regarding Municipal Budget Appropriation Limits (6-0-0-1)
• Tabled Resolution 018-24 for Board of Recreation reappointments (6-0-0-1)