Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Clifton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
12 issues in public safety
Crossing Guard Privatization Problems
Two weeks in, the privatized crossing guard program has open posts and pay complaints — one veteran guard says she was offered less money and wasn't paid. The 60-day grace period ends November 4, after which the city pays for any police officer filling a post.
Firefighter hires and EMT training
Clifton won a $2.1 million federal grant, but it was written for 16 firefighters while the council only approved seven positions — and councilman Kolodziej warned of future tax hits when the grant expires.
ICE Enforcement Operations in Clifton
Nine people were taken by ICE from Botany Village the day of the meeting, and speaker after speaker demanded the council respond — from requesting due process protections to condemning the operation. Others defended enforcement. The council debated its limited local role as the election nears.
CASAs funding and Power of One allocation
CASA's state grant fell from $41,000 in 2020 to $19,000 in 2025, and its president says he pays out of pocket for programs. He objects to shifting $90,000 to Power of One at CASA's expense.
Sidewalk Enforcement Failures
Henry Cholewczynski says five rebuilt Allwood Place homes skipped required sidewalks, an asbestos-riddled demolition at 33 Phyllis Place left friable debris and an open pit, and nobody notified neighbors. Latona promised an ordinance change so only the council — not the city engineer — can waive sidewalks.
Little Free Pantries vandalism
Volunteer-run food pantries were vandalized and apparently set on fire; an arrest was announced at the meeting. Operators say zoning and health complaints are being used against them and asked the council to change ordinances to make pantries easier to run.
Crooks Avenue quality of life
A 35-year resident described speeding traffic, businesses staying open past midnight, patrons occupying her family's handicapped parking spot, and two-hour police response times. She proposed residential permit parking after 5 p.m. The city manager pledged to involve police and code enforcement.
Police Misconduct Settlement
Clifton just settled an excessive-force lawsuit for $625K, and taxpayers are footing the bill—plus extra legal defense costs. It matters because public money is covering police conduct claims, not some abstract budget line.
Rules of order and public comment limits
The council approved ending meetings at 11 p.m. and starting with executive session, but rejected proposals to split public comment or limit speech after loud public opposition. Many residents called the changes censorship.
Police Staffing and Hiring
Seven new police officers were hired at $48,284 each, but the city manager noted the department is still roughly 40 officers short of FBI-recommended staffing.
Main Avenue construction fatality and site safety
David Joseph demanded answers about the construction death on Main Avenue, noting no scaffolding, sidewalk protection or hazard-reporting signage. Sadrakula called it selective enforcement and wants answers.
Public Safety Scam Warning
Clifton police say a jewelry-swap scam has been running for six weeks: thieves hand over fake pieces and walk away with real jewelry. If you're out and about, keep valuables close and don't bite on strangers' too-good-to-be-true offers.