Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Clifton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues with high priority
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.
City Council Election
Clifton's upcoming city council race is packed with 19 candidates vying for just 7 seats. These winning officials will hold the keys to local budgets, city development, and everyday neighborhood services.
Chick-Fil-A site plan on Kingsland Street
The heart of the Chick-fil-A fight is stormwater: how soil was tested, where runoff is measured, and whether the restaurant should be analyzed as part of the huge former Roche campus redevelopment. Downstream flooding on the objector's property and the Springer Brook/Third River watershed are at stake.
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.
Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Ordinances
New no-turn-on-red restrictions on Van Houten and Valley Road, school crossing designations, and a batch of handicapped parking changes all moved forward.
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.
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.
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.
Health Insurance Broker Switch Under Fire
Kolodziej voted against keeping Marsh McLennan, claiming the advertised $1.1 million savings are built on inflated stop-loss numbers while health benefit costs rose $5.5 million. The majority and the city manager defended the contract, touting $2.4 million in new prescription self-funding savings.
Master Plan Zoning Ordinances (Conditional Uses)
Seven proposed amendments to the city's zoning code covering general standards, bulk requirements and conditional uses in business and industrial zones were reviewed and found consistent with the Master Plan.