Passaic officials discuss rising garbage costs and new parking garage upgrades

Residents of Passaic voiced significant concerns during the March 18th council meeting, particularly regarding rising car insurance costs and the city’s garbage collection expenses. One resident highlighted that moving back to Passaic from Clifton resulted in an additional $311 in car insurance over six months, raising questions about the financial burden on urban residents. He suggested that increased city investments in safety could ultimately save homeowners money.

In response, city officials acknowledged the challenges of high insurance rates in urban areas, attributing them to market dynamics and state oversight. The council also discussed a new $10 million garbage collection contract, which has seen costs rise significantly, with officials confirming that the new contract is nearly half a million dollars more than previous years. They emphasized the importance of locking in rates to prevent further increases in the future.

Additionally, the meeting addressed ongoing changes to the parking deck project, with officials explaining that the numerous change orders are typical for such developments. The new facility will feature advanced technology, including license plate scanners and electric vehicle chargers, aimed at enhancing user experience and safety. Revenue generated from the parking deck will be shared with the city, contributing to maintenance and operational costs.

As Passaic continues to navigate these financial challenges, the council remains focused on balancing budgetary constraints while improving city services and infrastructure.