2/26/18 Caucus

PERTH AMBOY – There were two communications: 2 & 3 concerning zoning violations that a City Resident has complained about several times what is happening in her neighborhood.

Council President William Petrick had asked Business Administrator Adam Cruz to have the prosecutor provide an explanation as to why the case had been postponed for another 30 days. In a further communication, Cruz responded, “It was a judge, not the prosecutor who granted the lot owner the additional time.”

Councilman Irizarry asked, “Did the prosecutor recommend that additional time be given to the judge?”

Petrick responded, “That’s usually how it’s done.”

Code Enforcement Director Jamie Rios then came forward. He explained, “I was not in that meeting. This matter will be going to the Zoning Board.”

Irizarry then apologized by stating, “We are always criticizing Code Enforcement. The court did not follow the recommendations of Code Enforcement.”

Councilman Fernando Gonzalez then asked, “Is it standard to give a 30-day extension to make an application to the Zoning Board? This gives them30 more days to continue the violations. This got resolved behind closed doors. The violations were never heard.”

Rios then went on to say, “They are scheduled for the 3/8/18 Meeting.”

Councilman Joel Pabon concluded the conversation, “This sends a bad message to the community. Violations can continue while you have a 30-day stay.”