Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Clifton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in environment
Styrofoam Recycling Program Economics
The county-donated styrofoam machine may be losing money where it sits; the council wants a full cost analysis before charging businesses a drop-off fee.
Stormwater Compliance with NJDEP
The city is under violation notices from environmental regulators and hired Artheon for $40,000 to bring stormwater plans up to state requirements — potential fines loom if it stalls.
Stormwater compliance and failed engineering contract
The council rejected the cheaper Artheon bid for state-mandated stormwater plan updates, even though the city is already out of compliance with NJDEP and could be fined. Flooding and drainage are top resident concerns.
Solid waste collection frequency
Residents lined up to oppose a move to once-a-week garbage pickup, citing large families, overflowing cans, and rat concerns. The council responded with a 6-0 vote to keep twice-weekly collection.
Single-Day Garbage Pickup Proposal
A resident warned that one-day-a-week pickup will hit big families hard, clog narrow older streets for 15+ minutes at a time, and attract rodents — suggesting alternate-side parking on pickup days. Councilman Latona says rising costs (about $1 million a year more) may force the conversation anyway.
Third River Flooding Cleanup Stalled
Two council members demanded a report on the long-delayed Third River cleanup, noting money and equipment were already allocated. Latona said he's ready to privatize the work if the city can't do it in-house.
PSEG tree removal practices
A resident charged PSEG is defaulting to removing healthy shade trees instead of pruning, despite a state statute requiring integrated vegetation management. Council members asked for a report and oversight.
Hazardous city trees
A tree snapped in the wind and took down power lines on Tejal Desai's block; she wants a proactive inventory and replacement of weak species. Kolodziej noted an arborist handles trees individually but a study isn't in the 2026 budget.