News Flash

EXTREME COLD: FEBRUARY 6TH - FEBRUARY 9TH
Sub-Zero Temperatures: Prolonged freeze increases risk to people, pipes,
and property.
Dangerous Wind Chills: Frostbite and hypothermia can occur with
extended exposure.

Winter street cleaning and snow removal will continue to take place on the following Streets listed on this notice.

ARE YOU A HOMEOWNER WHOSE HOUSE NEEDS TO BE REFURBISHED?
The City of Passaic Housing Rehabilitation Program may be able to help you

Mayor Hector C. Lora Passaic UEZ Bus Shuttle

New updated Downtown & Uptown routes now available!

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Click to view unofficial results

CONSTRUCTION ALERT 

THE FOLLOWING PASSAIC COUNTY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT IS SCHEDULED:

CULVERT REPLACEMENT

(Passaic Avenue, between Ridge Avenue & J.R. Russo Drive)

Construction will start on Thursday, April 10^th and will take approximately ten (10) months to complete.

Temporary traffic patterns utilizing lane shifts will be maintained for the duration of the project.

Street parking in the vicinity of the project will be prohibited until the project is complete.

Expect delays

All travelers in this area must remain alert to construction equipment and watch carefully for the safety of construction workers.

– The above anticipated schedule is WEATHER PERMITTING and is subject to change – 

Dear Residents,

Please be advised that the City of Passaic will begin its annual fire hydrant inspection program starting April 14th. These inspections are a critical part of maintaining our community's fire safety and ensuring all hydrants are in proper working order. 

During this period, residents may notice temporary changes in water pressure or slight discoloration in their tap water. This is a normal part of the inspection process and does not pose any health risks. If discoloration occurs, we recommend running cold water until it clears. 

We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work to keep Passaic safe. 

             Thank you,

Passaic, NJ – The City of Passaic has been selected for a transformative Transit Hub Planning project facilitated by the Transit Hub Planning Program. This program is a partnership between the Center for Community Planning, the American Planning Association New Jersey Chapter (APA-NJ), and the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA). The program offers municipalities free professional planning assistance to develop plans for redeveloping or improving areas centered around transit hubs such as bus, rail, light rail, or ferry terminals.

Spearheaded by Mayor Hector C. Lora and Business Administrator Ricardo Fernandez, Passaic earned this opportunity through a highly competitive application process. The City’s request for assistance focused on the area surrounding the proposed new bus station on Main Avenue. Slated for completion between 2026 and 2028, the new station, funded by NJ TRANSIT will serve as a critical hub in Passaic’s Main Avenue commercial district.

Mayor Hector C. Lora’s visionary approach has been pivotal in advancing the Main Avenue redesign, which will transform the corridor into a more pedestrian and bike friendly area. The redesign includes replacing the current parking median with a modern promenade featuring reverse angle parking, a dedicated bike lane, ample seating areas and green space. Mayor Lora states, “This transformative initiative marks a significant step forward in Passaic’s commitment to creating a more accessible, sustainable, and thriving community. The new transit hub will not only enhance connectivity for our residents and visitors but also serve as a driving force for economic growth and development along Main Avenue. Together, we are reimagining Passaic as a city where modern infrastructure meets opportunity.” This initiative not only enhances the appeal of Main Avenue but also prioritizes safety and accessibility for residents and visitors alike.

In the City’s Transit Hub Plan, the City identified three primary objectives for the project:

1. Improving Intermodal Access to the Bus Terminal: The City aims to enhance intermodal connections between the new bus station and the surrounding area. Located centrally, the station will integrate smoothly with retail blocks, jitney services to New York City and nearby towns, as well as NJ Transit and the City’s UEZ bus routes. Pedestrian access will be enhanced to support these transit options, and a new parking garage, offering over 300 spaces, is currently under construction just one block away.

2. Developing a High-Level Plan to Connect the Bus Terminal to Nearby Rail Stations via Shuttle Service: Mayor Hector C. Lora envisions a plan to create a circulator transit service that links the new bus station with the Passaic Railroad Station on Passaic Avenue and the Garfield Rail Station across the Passaic River. This service will significantly enhance regional connectivity.

Passaic, NJ — On Wednesday, October 9, 2024, Mayor Hector C. Lora and the Passaic Fire Department hosted the annual Fire Safety Open House at the Eastside fire headquarters, welcoming approximately 800 to 1,000 students from local schools to participate in hands-on demonstrations and fire safety education. This year’s event featured an expanded focus on the growing dangers of lithium-ion battery fires, an issue that has emerged with the increasing use of e-bikes, e-scooters, cell phones, and other battery-powered devices.

As part of the day’s activities, children learned about fire hazards and fire prevention techniques, gaining experience through interactive demonstrations. Under the guidance of firefighters like Marcus Kenner, students were taught about the dangers of improper charging practices and storage of devices powered by lithium-ion batteries. The event included live demonstrations involving extrication tools, a simulated smoke-filled room for evacuation practice, and a sprinkler activation demonstration by the New Jersey Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board to show how fire suppression systems work.

EV and e-scooter fires, often caused by lithium-ion batteries, have surged dramatically in recent years, posing serious risks. Nationally, fires caused by these batteries increased by 46% in 2023 alone. In urban areas such as Passaic, electric vehicle-related fires are especially dangerous, with entire vehicles being destroyed and fires spreading quickly through buildings.

"Electric vehicle fires are unique and can reignite even after being initially extinguished," said Chief Trentacost. "These fires are fought differently, requiring special training and equipment, which makes them extremely dangerous in dense urban environments like Passaic."

Formal tracking of lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery fires began in 2023 through the combined efforts of the Passaic Fire Department and the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety. So far in 2024, the Passaic Fire Department has documented six incidents involving these batteries, two of which caused significant building damage. Another incident was linked to the overcharging of a battery-powered e-scooter or e-bike. Additional cases are under investigation, as lithium-ion battery fires continue to raise safety concerns across the city.

In Passaic, there is growing concern over the risks of storing electric vehicles, e-scooters, and other Li-ion- powered devices indoors—especially in stairwells, on upper floors, or near exits. Fire Chief Patrick Trentacost warns that fires involving these batteries generate toxic fumes and intense heat, making them significantly more dangerous than traditional fires. 

To ensure safety, Mayor Lora and Chief Trentacost are advising the public to follow these guidelines:

• Avoid Storing EVs or E-Scooters Indoors: Vehicles should not be stored in living spaces or on staircases, as this could block escape routes and allow fires to spread more quickly.
• Use Certified Batteries: Ensure that devices use UL-approved batteries, which have undergone testing for safety. Avoid purchasing or using illegal, non-certified batteries, as they are more likely to catch fire.
• Inspect Batteries Regularly: Residents should regularly inspect their devices for signs of wear or damage. If a battery appears swollen or shows signs of overheating, it should be replaced immediately.
• Direct Plug-In: All devices should be plugged directly into a wall outlet and never through an extension cord or power strip, as this increases the risk of electrical fires.
• No EVs in Underground or Ground-Level Parking: Storing EVs in such areas poses a high fire risk, especially as these fires require specialized techniques to extinguish and cannot be put out with water.  

The Mayor and the Fire Department are also calling for increased education and awareness on the risks posed by EVs and e-scooters, including proper charging, storage, and maintenance practices. "Our goal is to prevent tragedies by ensuring that all residents are informed and prepared," said Mayor Lora.

About Passaic Fire Department:

Mayor Lora, Chief Trentacost and the Passaic Fire Department are committed to ensuring the safety and well- being of all residents through fire prevention, education, and emergency response services.

Firefighters engage a group of young students in a fire safety demonstration on Fire Safety Day, using a model house to teach essential emergency skills

The Open House event is part of Passaic’s commitment to fire prevention and public safety, coinciding with Fire Prevention Month in October. Throughout the month, the Fire Department maintained an informational table at Passaic City Hall to provide residents with resources on fire prevention and safety, including lithium-ion battery handling tips.

For further information on fire safety and how to protect your home from EV and e-scooter fires, please visit cityofpassaic.com or contact the Passaic Fire Department.

Renee NunezRnunez@cityofpassaicnj.gov | Media@cityofpassaicnj.gov | 973-833-8605Patrick Trentacost Sr.ptrentacost@cityofpassaicnj.gov | info-fire@cityofpassaicnj.gov | 973-365-5685

Passaic, NJ – Mayor Hector C. Lora, Police Chief Luis Guzman, and Passaic’s Police Department held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 10, 2024 to mark the opening of Passaic’s second police substation on Passaic Street, between Fourth and Fifth Streets. The facility, which aims to increase police presence in the city’s east-side business district, is designed to improve community safety and strengthen connections between law enforcement and local residents.

The new substation follows the success of Passaic’s first police substation on Myrtle Avenue, opened six years ago, which police officials say reduced gang-related and property crime in that area. The Passaic Street substation will be under the direction of recently promoted Captain Patrick Burnett, who will oversee a team of patrol officers, members of the gang unit, and retired special officers supported through the Urban Enterprise Zone program.

According to The Future of Evidence-Based Policing (Cambridge University Press), targeted, proactive policing strategies, like those implemented in Passaic’s substations, can enhance crime prevention effectiveness by focusing police activities on high-crime areas and high-rate offenders, as seen in hot spots policing and focused deterrence. Additionally, diversifying policing approaches to include crime-specific solutions, such as problem- oriented policing, has shown strong impacts on community safety.

“Our goal with this substation is to deepen relationships with our community—our youth, business owners, and families—and to build trust and safety,” said Mayor Lora during the ceremony. “The aim is to have officers not only responding to calls but also engaging with residents and business owners to foster a safer environment.

This is proactive policing.”

Chief Guzman noted that the substation’s retired special officers bring valuable experience and familiarity with local issues. “These officers have long-standing connections to the community and an understanding of its specific needs,” he said, adding that these relationships are essential for effective community policing.

Local business owners have already shown their support for the increased police presence. Yaser Saeed, owner of La Morena Live Poultry across from the new substation, stated that he welcomes the added visibility. “Our streets are safer,” Saeed said, commending the city’s efforts to bolster safety in the district.

The new substation was made possible through a partnership with property owner Alex D. Perez, who donated the 575-square-foot storefront space to the city. Perez, a long-time Passaic developer, marked his belief in supporting initiatives that encourage safety and business success. “This is good for the community and good for my development,” Perez said. “Everyone wins.”

 The opening of the Passaic Street substation is part of Mayor Lora’s and Chief Guzman’s ongoing approach to neighborhood safety, promoting an evidence-based and proactive (as opposed to solely reactive) role for law enforcement within the community.

For more information about Passaic’s Police Department, visit Cityofpassaic.com.

Contact:         Renee Nunez – City of Passaic

Rnunez@cityofpassaicnj.gov 973-833-8605

Passaic, NJ – On Thursday, October 10, 2024, Mayor Hector C. Lora of Passaic served as the keynote speaker for the Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration hosted by the Superior Court of NJ, Passaic Vicinage. The event, held at the Commissioners Meeting Room on the second floor of 401 Grand Street in Paterson, embraced this year’s theme, “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together,” which honored Hispanic trailblazers who have paved the way for future generations.

Mayor Lora’s speech focused on the invaluable contributions of Hispanic Americans and emphasized the palpable character of heritage, unity, and resilience of Hispanic communities. Addressing an audience of community leaders, court staff, and students from Eastside High School’s JROTC program, the Mayor spoke passionately about the challenges and triumphs of Hispanic immigrants, using personal anecdotes to highlight the profound impact of past sacrifices on today’s opportunities.

“Latinos now represent 19% of the U.S. population, with 62 million individuals making up the largest minority group in the country,” Mayor Lora said, referencing recent census data. “In New Jersey, our Hispanic community continues to grow, with 1.9 million residents of Hispanic descent, including over 227,000 in Passaic County alone. These numbers reflect not only our growth but the strength and resilience of our community.”

The program commenced at 12:30 p.m. with the posting of colors and the Pledge of Allegiance by Eastside High School’s JROTC students. Judge Yolanda Adrianzen delivered welcoming remarks, setting the tone for a celebration that included jazz performances, poetry readings, and a tribute to Hispanic pioneers.

Following Mayor Lora’s address, attendees enjoyed a musical performance before the closing ceremony, where the colors were retired by Eastside High’s JROTC. Hon. Judge Rudolph A. Filko, Assignment Judge of the Passaic County Superior Court, and Trial Court Administrator Melanie Nowling offered final remarks, emphasizing the court’s commitment to fair and inclusive justice.

The Passaic County Superior Court, an independent branch of government, handles a range of criminal, civil, and family cases. As part of its mission, the court is dedicated to preserving the rule of law and upholding the rights guaranteed by the Constitution.

For more information on the Passaic County Superior Court and its services, visit the court’s website at njcourts.gov or contact (973) 653-2910. 

Contact:           Renee Nunez – City of Passaic

  Rnunez@cityofpassaicnj.gov   973-833-8605

Passaic, NJ – On Saturday, September 14, 2024, Mayor Hector C. Lora, alongside Councilwoman Maritza Colon-Montanez, led a heartfelt street naming ceremony to commemorate the late Alicia Troche Caraballo, a revered community figure and longtime business owner. The intersection of Third Street and Virginia Street now bears the name “Alicia’s Place” in recognition of Alicia’s invaluable contributions to the City of Passaic and her lasting impact on the community.

Born on September 6, 1935, in Yauco, Puerto Rico, Alicia Troche Caraballo moved to Newark, New Jersey, in 1956, where she built a life centered on hard work, family, and community. Initially managing her own botanica and record store, she later earned her GED and served as a teacher’s aide in Newark Public Schools. In 1970, following a house fire, Alicia and her family relocated to Passaic, where she established herself as a local business leader and pillar of the community.

Alicia was widely known as the owner of “Alicia’s Bar,” a beloved establishment on Third Street that became a social hub for three generations. Fondly referred to as “Mom” by patrons and friends alike, her bar was more than just a business—it was a gathering place that fostered friendships and community bonds. Beyond her business, Alicia’s generosity extended to sponsoring recreational leagues, supporting local causes, and offering food, clothing, and shelter to those in need.

“Alicia embodied the spirit of service and compassion,” Mayor Lora stated during the ceremony. “Renaming this intersection as ‘Alicia’s Place’ is a tribute to her unwavering dedication to our community. Her memory will continue to inspire all who pass by this corner.”

Councilwoman Maritza Colon-Montanez echoed these sentiments, noting Alicia’s lasting influence. “Alicia was not only a business owner but a friend and advocate for many in our city,” she said. “Her love for Passaic and commitment to helping others made her a true role model.”

The event featured city officials, family members, friends, and residents, all gathered to honor Alicia’s memory and celebrate the lasting mark she left on Passaic. Mayor Lora closed the ceremony with a reflection on the importance of preserving Alicia’s legacy: “Alicia’s Place will stand as a reminder of the kindness, resilience, and unity that she brought to our community every day.”

For further information on upcoming events and community initiatives, please visit the City of Passaic’s official website at Cityofpassaic.com.

Community members, friends, family, and local officials gather at the newly designated “Alicia’s Place” to honor the late Alicia Troche Caraballo’s legacy. The ceremony celebrated her contributions as a business owner and cherished community figure in Passaic.

The new “Alicia’s Place” street sign, proudly displaying the Puerto Rican and American flags, stands at the corner of Third and Virginia Streets in Passaic. Contact:         Renee Nunez – City of Passaic                            Rnunez@cityofpassaicnj.gov 973-833-8605

Passaic, NJ – On Saturday, August 31st, 2024, the City of Passaic, in partnership with OpioidFree and the Mayor’s Youth Council, hosted the second annual International Overdose Awareness Day event at Passaic City Hall. Themed “Together We Can,” this year's event brought the community together to honor those lost to drug overdoses and promote education and action in combating opioid addiction.

The event featured a wide range of family-friendly activities designed to bring the community together and encourage engagement with local resources. Children enjoyed a bouncy house, giant Jenga, and various games such as axe throw, bean bag toss, and a parachute station. Attendees also participated in creative activities at the art station, where they had the opportunity to express themselves artistically while learning about available support services. Music, free pizza, and refreshments added to the atmosphere, creating a space where families could come together to learn, share, and heal.

While the event was lively, community health initiatives were a core focus of the event. Nurses from Medgar Evers College offered free health screenings, while Narcan kits and fentanyl test strips were distributed to support harm reduction efforts. Informational booths from local organizations such as the Passaic Drug Alliance, the Passaic Health Department, the Passaic Fire Department, and the Passaic Police Department provided resources and information on addiction prevention, recovery services, and health care support.

Mayor Lora expressed the importance of the event, stating, “This is both a day to remember those we’ve lost and a day to prevent further losses by bringing people together, sharing resources, and continuing the fight against addiction. Events like this remind us that, as a community, we can raise awareness and provide support so no one has to face these challenges alone.”

In recognition of his leadership in addressing the opioid crisis, Mayor Lora was honored by OpioidFree with an award celebrating his ongoing commitment to public health and addiction awareness.

Parking Permit Application -Residential Parking (East Side)

Passaic, N.J. – Mayor Hector C. Lora announced his direct approach in battling the illegal selling of cannabis, marijuana, and tobacco in retail establishments throughout the City of Passaic. The Passaic Police Department will conduct random inspections in search for the following items: cannabis, marijuana, edibles, smoking products, tobacco, and flavored vapes (electronic cigarettes). If these items are to be found, they will be confiscated and removed from the possession of the business and will be subject to summons and prosecution.

The Mayor addressed his concerns alongside the City’s Police Chief Luis Guzman and Health Officer Ken Pincus on tackling this growing issue and emphasizing the consequences of illegal business practices. The Health Department will actively work with the Police Department in the upcoming weeks to search and seize any illegal products found.

Complaints from the community have increased exponentially prompting Mayor Lora to take action to ensure that the City remains as a safe and healthy space for children. The availability and marketing of e-cigarettes have led to a surge in youth vaping especially with its appealing flavors and discreet designs. The ease of accessibility poses as a great risk for the children of the city, exposing them to nicotine addiction at an early age. Mayor Lora expressed “When these substances appeal to the youth, they attract children and almost send a message that we encourage the use of these substances by our young children. We don't”.

The City will be strictly enforcing these measures starting August 7^th, 2023. To watch the Mayor’s full statement, please visit https://www.facebook.com/HCLora/videos/1516248645789996 .  

Passaic, N.J. – Mayor Hector C. Lora is proud to announce that the City of Passaic continues to make remarkable strides in pedestrian safety, reaching two years without any pedestrian or traffic fatalities. This achievement is the result of a strategic approach to road safety, combining measures such as “angle” parking and push button-operated traffic signs, along with the implementation of Rapid Rectangular Flashing Beacons and High Visibility Crosswalks. 

Mayor Lora, invited as the keynote speaker for the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority Board of Trustees meeting on Monday, July 10, 2023, presented how ‘Transportation & Redevelopment are Coming Together to Better Prepare Passaic for the Future.’

“When people feel safe on the roads, sidewalks, and public transportation, they are more likely to choose active modes of transportation, like walking and cycling,” said Mayor Lora.

The City of Passaic has secured significant grant funding from various programs offered by the New Jersey Department of Transportation to reconstruct and preserve roads. These grants include NJDOT Local Aid, Municipal Aid, Safe Routes to School, Safe Streets to Transit, Local Aid Infrastructure Fund, Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside, and Local Transportation Planning Fund Programs.

Passaic’s population of approximately 70,000 across 3.2 square miles results in almost 22,000 people per square mile. “Transportation projects often require acquiring land which can create opportunities to redevelop land in adjacent areas,” Mayor Lora said. “This efficient use of land can alleviate urban sprawl or uncontrolled expansion of urban areas and promote sustainable development.”

With the collaboration from respected organizations and colleges & universities, such as the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, Rutgers University, The College of New Jersey, EZ Ride, and Complete Streets Program, the City of Passaic has been able to conduct comprehensive roadway studies and implement effective traffic safety measures. This collaborative effort ensures that road design and traffic infrastructure align with the specific needs of the community.

“These collaborations have allowed our city to create visualizations, which help in getting the buy-in from our stakeholders and our community members when we can present these plans, especially for improvements to our streetscape designs,” said Mayor Lora. “We can incorporate and encourage various modes of transportation, expand public open space, and improve safety, mobility, and visibility in order to continue to make Passaic a great place to live, work and visit.”

The Passaic Police Department’s Traffic Division also plays an active role to ensure road safety. They have been equipped to identify the areas of concern and conducted in-depth traffic studies on those intersections. Their efforts enabled the Engineering Department to implement appropriate measures such as installing four-way stop signs and/or traffic signals.

Additionally, the City of Passaic acknowledges the crucial role that crossing guards play in safeguarding students as they commute to and from school, and help secure their safe passage across busy roadways.

All media inquiries should be directed to Lillian Yang at lyang@cityofpasssaicnj.gov

Passaic, N.J. – On Sunday, April 2, 2023, Mayor Hector C. Lora joined the 150th Anniversary Committee, City leaders, and local community members to commemorate the 150th anniversary year of the City of Passaic. The celebration took place at Passaic City Hall from 3pm to 5pm, where the city's flag was raised for the very first time.

“In 150 years, the thing that we have learned the most is to come together and work together. Let’s work to the common goal of making this the best city that it could ever be. Where it doesn’t matter where you come from, only where you’re going. Standing together, united, and determined to make Passaic better. That’s why we’re here today and tomorrow and day after day after day so that all of us can be equally as proud of that which the city is doing.” Said City Council President Gary Schaer.

“Passaic is booming. This is what urban renewal is all about. Passaic has every restaurant you can possible want to eat at, coffee shops, places where people can shop. You have stores in Passaic that sell just about anything with quality products.” Said Commissioner of the County, Bruce James. “I was stunned by the construction that was going on for housing in Passaic, giving the opportunity for people to have some place to live in a city that’s walkable.”

During the event, Mayor Lora introduced Justin Ellen and highlighted his entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropic efforts, stating that it was inspiring to see a young individual give back to their community. Mayor Lora expressed his gratitude towards Justin for his contributions to the city and his commitment to making a positive impact.

“I, Hector C. Lora, the Mayor of the City of Passaic, along with our City Council President and all of us in the City of Passaic, recognize Justin Ellen, Owner of “Everything just Baked” during Passaic 150th Anniversary for his determination and perseverance that serve as a reminder that with hard work and a strong passion, anything is possible. Because you have chosen to become an ambassador of our city, lifting our city up high, we wanted to together declare Justin, you are Passaic.” Announced Mayor Lora.

“Everything that happened was because I put myself out there and I remembered my roots. I give back when I can. I want to be an inspiration to all entrepreneurs. You can do it, you’re not too old, you’re not too young. If you can dream it, you can do it, just put in the work, and I’m proof of that.” Said Owner of “Everything Just Baked” Justin Ellen, a Passaic native, who crafted the 150th Anniversary Birthday Cake.

Mayor Lora recited the original Act of incorporation for the City of Passaic, which emphasized the city’s historic origins and values. Then followed was the first-ever Passaic flag-raising ceremony. The festivities were made even more enjoyable with sweet treats, music and a DJ, which added to the celebratory atmosphere. Overall, it was a great way to showcase civic pride and honor the city's rich history and founding principles.

Highlighting the City's Rich Cultural Heritage and Diversity

Passaic, N.J. – On Sunday, April 2, 2023, Mayor Hector C. Lora joined the 150th Anniversary Committee, City leaders, and local community members to commemorate the 150th anniversary year of the City of Passaic. The celebration took place at Passaic City Hall from 3pm to 5pm, where the city's flag was raised for the very first time.

“In 150 years, the thing that we have learned the most is to come together and work together. Let’s work to the common goal of making this the best city that it could ever be. Where it doesn’t matter where you come from, only where you’re going. Standing together, united, and determined to make Passaic better. That’s why we’re here today and tomorrow and day after day after day so that all of us can be equally as proud of that which the city is doing.” Said City Council President Gary Schaer.

“Passaic is booming. This is what urban renewal is all about. Passaic has every restaurant you can possible want to eat at, coffee shops, places where people can shop. You have stores in Passaic that sell just about anything with quality products.” Said Commissioner of the County, Bruce James. “I was stunned by the construction that was going on for housing in Passaic, giving the opportunity for people to have some place to live in a city that’s walkable.”

During the event, Mayor Lora introduced Justin Ellen and highlighted his entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropic efforts, stating that it was inspiring to see a young individual give back to their community. Mayor Lora expressed his gratitude towards Justin for his contributions to the city and his commitment to making a positive impact.

“I, Hector C. Lora, the Mayor of the City of Passaic, along with our City Council President and all of us in the City of Passaic, recognize Justin Ellen, Owner of “Everything just Baked” during Passaic 150th Anniversary for his determination and perseverance that serve as a reminder that with hard work and a strong passion, anything is possible. Because you have chosen to become an ambassador of our city, lifting our city up high, we wanted to together declare Justin, you are Passaic.” Announced Mayor Lora.

“Everything that happened was because I put myself out there and I remembered my roots. I give back when I can. I want to be an inspiration to all entrepreneurs. You can do it, you’re not too old, you’re not too young. If you can dream it, you can do it, just put in the work, and I’m proof of that.” Said Owner of “Everything Just Baked” Justin Ellen, a Passaic native, who crafted the 150th Anniversary Birthday Cake.

Mayor Lora recited the original Act of incorporation for the City of Passaic, which emphasized the city’s historic origins and values. Then followed was the first-ever Passaic flag-raising ceremony. The festivities were made even more enjoyable with sweet treats, music and a DJ, which added to the celebratory atmosphere. Overall, it was a great way to showcase civic pride and honor the city's rich history and founding principles.

Passaic, N.J. – Mayor Hector C. Lora joins the Passaic Housing Authority’s Board of Commissioners to present the Passaic Housing Authority “Nancy Everett” Distinguished Service Awards to Jocelyn Aguilar, Tysheena Boyd-Lewis, Lisset Lopez, and Leslie Zuniga.

Jocelyn Aguilar was born in the City of Passaic. She attended Passaic’s William B. Cruise Memorial School #11 at a young age. Jocelyn joined the Passaic Affordable Housing Coalition in June 2021, where she was hired as the RAD Property Manager for Chestnut Gardens and Vreeland Village is now known as Katie M. Johnson Complex. In 2019, Jocelyn started Kiddo Play Time, a woman-owned business in partnership with her sister-in-law. Her dedication, work ethic, and compassion are reflected in her residents and surrounding community. Most importantly, she continues to inspire others as a mother, friend, and successful businesswoman.

Tysheena Boyd-Lewis was born and raised in the City of Passaic. She is a proud product of the Passaic Public Schools system and graduated high school in 1996. Tysheena is also a product of the Passaic Housing Authority’s Youth Programs, which she attended since she was four years old. As a young adult, she volunteered in the Department of Youth and Resident Services and was soon promoted to Assistant Supervisor. Her efforts, work ethic, and dedication allowed her to continue to grow professionally. Tysheena obtained her certification as a Paraprofessional and works for the Hawthorne Blowers Public School. She is the Secretary of the Coaches Association of Passaic where she volunteers her time. She currently serves as the Site Coordinator at the Speer Village After-School Program. Tysheena has made it her life mission to serve children of all cultures. She encourages them to strive for greatness and never give up during times of adversity.

Lisset Lopez was born and raised in New York City but moved to the City of Passaic in 1987 to raise her two children and where she has remained for the past 35 years. Lisset’s love and loyalty to Passaic and its community began when she was 14 years old just visiting this city but it truly flourished in 1993 when her daughter attended the Passaic City Head Start program. She was advocated to become a Passaic City Head Start Family Worker and was in this position for 13 years, working with over 600 families. She began volunteering as a T-Ball coach until 2011 when her roles and responsibilities grew as she was overseeing several leagues. In 2006, she joined Passaic Recreation as an employee where she organized events, sports programs, and the overall functions of the recreation department. In 2022, Lisset joined Mayor Hector Lora’s administrative team where she continues to work on special events and assists the team in Mayor Lora’s initiatives.

Leslie Zuniga was born and raised in the City of Passaic to immigrant parents looking for better opportunities and her goal was to pursue the higher education that her parents did not have the opportunity to in their home country. She holds an undergraduate degree from Rutgers University, majoring in Political Science and Criminal Justice. Since graduating, she has continued the hard work of her parents by running the family business, El Alebrije Mexican Restaurant. Leslie Zuniga also serves as a member of the Board of Urban Enterprise Zone since June 2022. In August 2022, she was appointed as a member of the Passaic Board of Education because of her commitment and dedication to Passaic’s youth. As a young businesswoman and community leader, she hopes to encourage students in the City of Passaic to pursue their dreams and passions no matter how impossible they may seem. Leslie is fueled by her passion for the City of Passaic and is eager to build on her academic foundations and professional development.

All media inquiries should be directed to Lillian Yang at lyang@cityofpasssaicnj.gov

CERTIFICATION IN LIEU OF OATH I. OWNER SECTION (to be completed if the applicant is the owner in fee) I hereby certify that I am the owner in fee of the property listed on Page 1. Mark the following applicable boxes: A. ( ) I further certify that a new home (private residence) will be constructed on this property for my own use and occupancy. This dwelling is to be occupied by myself and is not to be used for any purpose other than single family residential use. I attest that all construction, plumbing, or electrical work will be done, in whole or in part, by me or by subcontractors under my supervision, in accordance with all applicable laws; and, I further acknowledge that said new home is not covered under the New Home Warranty and Builders Registration Act (N.J.S.A. 46:3B-1 et seq.) and that such fact shall be disclosed to any person purchasing this property within ten years of the date of issuance of a certificate of occupancy. I UNDERSTAND THAT IN MARKING BOX A, I ACKNOWLEDGE THAT I AM ASSUMING RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE WORK DONE ON SAID PROPERTY, THE CONDITION OF THE PROPERTY PRIOR TO, DURING, AND AFTER ANY WORK PERFORMED, AND FOR THE PERFORMANCE OF THE SUBCONTRACTORS I HIRE, EMPLOY, OR OTHERWISE CONTRACT OR WITH WHOM I MAKE AGREEMENTS TO PERFORM WORK. I AM VOLUNTARILY AND KNOWINGLY ASSUMING THIS RESPONSIBILITY. B. ( ) I further certify the following as required by the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code, N.J.A.C. 5:23-2.15(f)1.ix: I personally prepared the plans submitted for: 1) the new home referred to in A.; or, 2) an addition, alteration, renovation, or repair to an existing single family residence owned and occupied by myself and located on the property listed on Page 1; or, 3) a new structure that will be physically separate from, but that will be deemed part of, an existing single family residence that is owned and occupied by myself and located on the property listed on Page 1. C. ( ) I further certify that I will perform or supervise the following work: C.1. ( ) Building C.2. ( ) Fire Protection I further certify that I will perform the following work: C.3. ( ) Electrical C.4. ( ) Plumbing D. ( ) I agree to advise all contractors on this project that they are required to be registered with the New Jersey Division of Taxation and to comply with all New Jersey tax laws. I further certify the following as required by the Uniform Construction Code, N.J.A.C. 5:23-2.15(a)5: All required State, county, and local prior approvals, including such certification as the construction official may require, have been given or will be given prior to pemit issuance. I understand that if any of the above statements are willfully false, I am subject to punishment. Signature_____________________________________________________________ Date _______________________ II. AGENT SECTION (to be completed if the applicant is not the owner in fee) I hereby certify the following as required by the Uniform Construction Code, N.J.A.C. 5:23-2.15(d): the proposed work is authorized by the owner in fee; and I have been authorized by the owner in fee to make this application as his agent. I further certify the following as required by the Uniform Construction Code, N.J.A.C. 5:23-2.15(a)5: All required State, county, and local prior approvals, including such certification as the construction official may require, have been given or will be given prior to permit issuance. I agree to advise all contractors on this project that they are required to be registered with the New Jersey Division of Taxation and to comply with all New Jersey tax laws. I understand that if any of the above statements are willfully false, I am subject to punishment. ( ) Check if contractor. Agent Name _________________________________________________________________________________________ Address _____________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Telephone ___________________________ Signature____________________________________________________________________________________________ III. ( ) LEAD HAZARD ABATEMENT: Include Homeowner or Building Owner Affidavit as per N.J.A.C. 5:23-2.15(b)4. IV. ( ) HOME ELEVATION: Include Home Elevation Contractor Certification as per N.J.S.A. 52:27D-123.16.

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