Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Clifton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
11 issues in general
School expansion at iLearn facility on Clifton Avenue
A memorializing resolution will formalize earlier approval of an 8,800-square-foot, two-story addition to the existing school building, along with sign and parking variances including tandem parking.
Rabies Alert
A rabid fox was caught in nearby Little Falls, and Clifton health officials are telling residents to keep kids and pets away from wildlife. The practical advice: don’t touch strange animals and make sure pets’ rabies shots are current.
Early Voting
Early voting for the 2026 General Election starts tomorrow in Clifton, and you can cast your ballot in person at any Passaic County early voting site before Election Day. Basically, if you can't make it on the actual day, you've got options—no excuse to sit this one out.
Solar feasibility and city budget pressure
A $5.8 million solar project — mostly canopies at City Hall and toward the COSA center — could zero out the city's electric bill, with roughly $6 million back in federal grants and SREC credits. The council will bring Talva Energy in for a full presentation.
Non-owner-occupied dwelling registration fees
Councilwoman Sadrakula wants a rental registration and inspection program to catch illegal apartments and unsafe conditions. The city will draft its own ordinance, adding complaint-based inspections to the model.
Illegal housing enforcement
Residents are pushing for stricter occupancy standards based on bedrooms, not just square footage, plus more inspectors and consequences for repeat violators. Council asked for new illegal-housing rules on the next agenda.
International Day to Replace Divisive Flag Raisings
Sadrakula says flag raisings have 'become political' and don't unify the city. A public planning meeting is set for August 12 at 7 p.m. to design a single multicultural day — possibly with an amphitheater idea at the city's historic property.
'Brown Checks' — Spending Outside Council Oversight
Members learned that an ACH reimbursement process ('brown checks') lets employees get paid for travel, seminars, and more without those payments ever appearing on the bills list the council votes on — over $100,000 in seminar/training spend cited. Latona wants a full report.
Little Free Pantries and zoning concerns
Residents celebrated new pantries at School 11 and School 17 but feared proposed zoning changes could shut food pantries down. Councilwoman Sadrakula said the pantries are not being eliminated and the health-and-welfare chapter removal from the zoning ordinance isn't happening.
Property revaluation inspector conduct
The city's first revaluation in 35 years is underway. Inspectors have visited thousands of homes; residents worried about 'knock and run' visits, finished-basement classifications, and upcoming tax impacts got answers at a special Q&A.
Film Production Incentives
Clifton and Passaic are trying to attract film and TV shoots with incentives, hoping for local jobs, spending, and some Hollywood shine. The upside is real, but so is the risk that public money goes out before the economic payoff shows up.