Development News for Elmwood Park, New Jersey

Elwood Park Adopts 2026 Budget with 18% Tax Increase Amidst Governance Concerns

The Elwood Park Mayor and Council held a public hearing and adopted the 2026 municipal budget, totaling \$27,573,712. A significant point of discussion was the 18% increase in the tax levy. Councilman Oswald voiced strong opposition to the budget's adoption, citing a lack of collaborative budget workshops and a perceived "hands-off" approach to governing, which he believes compromises transparency and accountability. He stated that council members were expected to adopt the budget without adequate public discussion and debate, which he felt was not in the best interest of taxpayers. The CFO, Roy Riatano, explained that the budget increase was primarily driven by a 35% rise in health benefits costs and salary increases, not by personnel additions. He also clarified that a revaluation of properties shifted the tax burden, with commercial establishments picking up a larger portion of the increase, and that one-third of homes would see an increase, one-third remain the same, and one-third decrease. Despite the contentious debate, the budget was adopted with a majority vote.

Debate Erupts Over Budget Process Transparency and Collaboration in Elwood Park Council Meeting

During the budget adoption debate, Councilman Oswald and Councilwoman Troy expressed concerns about the budget process. Oswald argued that the lack of collaborative budget workshops and full council discussions prior to the adoption date undermined transparency and accountability. He stated that council members were expected to rubber-stamp a budget prepared by administration without sufficient opportunity for debate, challenge, or exploration of alternatives. Troy echoed these sentiments, noting that the process had been similar for the past three years, with council members only having individual meetings with the CFO. Council President Peline and CFO Roy Riatano countered that opportunities for collective meetings were offered on April 9th, with a mandatory waiting period before adoption on April 23rd, and that council members could have requested such meetings through the Borough Administrator. They argued that the process followed established statutes and that complaints about the process were not new. The debate underscored differing perspectives on procedural transparency and collaboration within the council.

Residents Raise Concerns Over Speeding and Stop Sign Violations on West and Summer Streets

During the public comment period, Latrell Anderson of 3 West Street expressed concern about vehicles speeding and failing to obey the stop sign at the intersection of West Street and Summer Street. Despite a three-way stop sign, drivers are reportedly not slowing down, creating a dangerous situation for pedestrians, especially children. Anderson requested that the council take action. Police Chief Michael Felgno assured that patrols would conduct extra checks, set up radar posts, and enforce stop sign compliance in the area, particularly noting that the issue occurs at night as well. Anderson was asked to provide her contact information to the lieutenant for follow-up.

Elwood Park Seeks \$1.9 Million Federal Grant for Water System Replacement

Councilman Oswald announced that Congresswoman Nelli Po's office has submitted a request to the US Congress for \$1.9 million for the fiscal year 2027 budget to replace Elwood Park's water treatment system. This funding would be a significant benefit to the community and taxpayers. He urged residents to contact state representatives Alab Delaz and Kenyatta Stewart to advocate for the town's needs, specifically mentioning a request for fundraising help for the EMS ambulance.