Rahway, New Jersey

Planning Board

The Zoning Board of Adjustment regular meeting will consider approving the minutes from the May 18, 2026 meeting. It will receive a report from the Planning Board. The board will discuss Application #08/26 for a bulk “C” variance submitted by William F. Buchanan for the property at 1583 High Street, Block 201 Lot 21. No decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Approve minutes of the May 18, 2026 Board of Adjustment meeting
• Receive report from the Planning Board
• Consider Application #08/26 – bulk “C” variances for William F. Buchanan, 1583 High Street, Block 201 Lot 21

Rahway City Council

Social Justice Commission

Rahway City Council

Social Justice Commission

Rahway City Council

Social Justice Commission

Rahway City Council

Social Justice Commission

Rahway City Council

Social Justice Commission

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will meet to consider a bulk variance application for a property on High Street. The board will also review and approve minutes from the May 18, 2026, meeting.

• Bulk “C” Variances application #08/26 for William F. Buchanan at 1583 High Street (Block 201 Lot 21)

Rahway Redevelopment Agency

The Rahway Redevelopment Agency will consider a purchase agreement for a property on W. Main Street. The body is also reviewing a professional services agreement for planning and an amendment to legal service fees.

• Purchase and Sale Agreement for Block 161, Lot 9 (169-171 W. Main Street)
• Professional services agreement with Heyer, Gruel & Associates for Block 321, Lots 1-4 planning report
• Amendment to the fee schedule for professional legal services (Resolution 30-26)

Rahway City Council

At its July 6, 2026 meeting, the Rahway City Council will read and vote on several first‑read ordinances. The items include a municipal budget appropriation limit and cap bank, emergency appropriations for retired employee benefits, funding for vehicle acquisition, construction of a parking lot on Fulton St‑Pierce St, demolition of city‑owned structures, and a redevelopment plan for Block 277 Lot 10 under the Local Redevelopment and Housing Law. The council will also adopt resolutions and two ordinances covering city filming regulations and an amendment to the water and sewer engineering chapter.

• Limit municipal budget appropriation and establish a cap bank (O-17-26)
• Emergency appropriations fund terminal pay for retired employees (O-18-26)
• Bond for acquisition of vehicles (O-19-26)
• Bond for construction of parking lot on Fulton St‑Pierce St properties (O-20-26)
• Redevelopment plan for Block 277 Lot 10 under Local Redevelopment and Housing Law (O-22-26)

Rahway City Council

Planning Board

Social Justice Commission

The Social Justice Commission will meet to review the FY 2026 financial report and receive updates from initiative committees. The body will discuss ongoing projects and plan for upcoming local events and presentations.

• FY 2026 financial report and recurring expenses
• Scholarship initiative update
• Social Justice Movie and Listening Bench pop-up events
• Inclusive Holiday Celebration planning
• Presentations from Ronald McCray, Joes Brown (United Way), and local authorities

Zoning Board of Adjustment

Environmental Commission

The Environmental Commission will receive a presentation on CES matters, hear public comments, and discuss several updates including a Union County Hub meeting report and a sustainability application. Members will also consider an extended leave of absence for Commissioner Perrine. No formal actions or votes are listed on the agenda.

• Presentation by Mr. O’Neill on CES Matters
• Public Notice – Rahway Valley Sewerage Authority RNG Project and Air Permit Renewal
• Hearing of Citizens
• Report from Commissioner Carchia on Union County Hub Meeting
• Consideration of Extended Leave of Absence for Commissioner Perrine

Rahway City Council

The Rahway City Council will review two first-read ordinances regarding filming and water and sewer regulations. The body will also act on an adopted ordinance concerning the sale of real property.

• First read of Ordinance O-15-26 regarding filming
• First read of Ordinance O-16-26 to add a new section to Chapter 411 Water and Sewer
• Adoption of Ordinance O-14-26 for the sale of real property at Block 198 Lot 11, 6 Broadway

The council adopted Ordinance O-14-26, authorizing the sale of the property at 6 Broadway. Earlier, the council introduced Ordinances O-15-26 and O-16-26 on first reading. The council also approved a consent agenda covering resolutions AR-135-26 through AR-147-26. The meeting minutes were approved and the public‑hearing portion was closed.

• Approved May 4, 2026 meeting minutes (8-0)
• Adopted Ordinance O-15-26 authorizing sale of 6 Broadway (8-0)
• Adopted Ordinance O-16-26 amending water‑leak adjustments (8-0)
• Adopted Ordinance O-14-26 finalizing sale of 6 Broadway (8-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda resolutions AR-135-26 to AR-147-26 (8-0)
• Accepted payment of May 2026 bills (8-0)
• Closed public hearing portion of the meeting (8-0)
• Adjourned meeting (voice vote, no objection)

Rahway Redevelopment Agency

The Rahway Redevelopment Agency is scheduled to approve professional service contracts for legal counsel and environmental engineering. The meeting also includes a closed session and the adoption of minutes from a prior meeting.

• Contract with Decotiis Doyle, LLP for legal services (estimated $25,000)
• Contract with Heyer, Gruel & Associates for parking suitability study
• Resolution to authorize purchase and sale agreement for 277 and 309 Hamilton Street
• Contract with T&M Associates for environmental due diligence
• Fourth amendment to redevelopment agreement with Meridia Brownstones Rahway, LLC

Rahway Redevelopment Agency

The Rahway Redevelopment Agency regular meeting will consider several resolutions, including approving professional services contracts for Decottis Doyle LLP, Heyer, Gruel & Associates, and T&M Associates, and authorizing a purchase and sale agreement with Meridia on Hamilton Street for properties at 277 and 309 Hamilton Street. The board will also adopt minutes from the March 18 meeting and authorize an executive closed session. Additional reports and public comments are scheduled.

• Approve professional services contract to Decottis Doyle LLP for the 2026 special council.
• Approve professional services contract to Heyer, Gruel & Associates for a parking suitability study for Block 161, Lot 9.
• Authorize purchase and sale agreement with Meridia on Hamilton Rahway, LLC for properties at 277 and 309 Hamilton Street (Block 162, Lots 9 and 13).
• Approve professional services contract to T&M Associates for environmental due‑diligence services for the same Hamilton Street properties.
• Approve resolution authorizing an executive closed session.

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will review a minor subdivision variance request submitted by Integrity Holdings & Development LLC for 293 William St., Block 308 Lot 4. The Board will also consider any needed changes to the minutes of the April 20, 2026 meeting. A report from the Planning Board will be presented. The next meeting is scheduled for June 15, 2026.

• Memorialization of Application #0 1 /2 5 – Minor Subdivision with Use “D” Variance and Bulk “C” Variance for Integrity Holdings & Development LLC, 293 William St., Block 308 Lot 4
• Approval or amendment of minutes from the April 20, 2026 ZBA meeting
• Report from the Planning Board
• Flag salute (procedural)
• Adjournment

Environmental Commission

The Rahway Environmental Commission will discuss several updates, including reports on the Union County Hub, the Sustainable Jersey Summit, the Vital Signs Initiative, and watershed and sustainability applications. A key agenda item is the consideration of an extended leave of absence for Commissioner Perrine. The meeting also includes a presentation by Mr. O’Neill on CES matters and a citizen hearing.

• Presentation by Mr. O’Neill on CES matters
• Report from Commissioner Carchia on Union County Hub meeting
• Discussion of the Sustainable Jersey Summit
• Update from Commissioner Zafra on the Vital Signs Initiative
• Consideration of extended leave of absence for Commissioner Perrine

Alcoholic Beverage Control Board

The Rahway Alcoholic Beverage Control Board will convene to approve minutes from a previous meeting and consider a resolution to authorize a person-to-person transfer of a retail consumption license.

• Approval of April 15, 2026 minutes
• Resolution to approve Person-to-Person Place to Place transfer 2013-33-005-013
• Public comment period (3 minutes per speaker)
• Police reports
• Executive closed session

Rahway City Council

The City Council is meeting to review a first-read ordinance regarding the sale of real property. The body is also adopting ordinances related to property acquisition and capital improvements.

• First read of Ordinance O-14-26 for the sale of real property at Block 198 Lot 11 (6 Broadway)
• Adoption of Ordinance O-12-26 for property acquisition of St. Marks property
• Adoption of Ordinance O-13-26 for various 2026 capital improvements

The council elected Karla Timmons to fill the Third Ward seat and adopted the resolution confirming the vacancy fill. It approved two bond ordinances authorizing $2.75 million for a property purchase and $2.5 million for capital improvements. The body also adopted a package of consent‑agenda resolutions, approved the 6 Broadway property sale ordinance (first reading), and authorized a multicultural block party for May 29.

• Elected Karla Timmons as Third Ward Councilmember (unanimous yes)
• Adopted Resolution AR-121-26 filling the Third Ward vacancy (unanimous yes)
• Approved April 6 and April 13 meeting minutes (unanimous yes, one abstention)
• Adopted Ordinance O-12-26 authorizing $2,750,000 property acquisition (unanimous yes)
• Adopted Ordinance O-13-26 authorizing $2,500,000 capital‑improvement bonds (unanimous yes)
• Adopted Consent Agenda Resolutions AR-122-26 through AR-134-26 (unanimous yes)
• Adopted Ordinance authorizing sale of 6 Broadway (first reading) (unanimous yes)
• Adopted Block Party BP-26-02 for May 29 multicultural event (unanimous yes)

Planning Board

Social Justice Commission

The commission will review minutes from the March 23 meeting, receive a financial report for fiscal year 2026, and hear updates from the City Council liaison and several initiative committees. Reports from the Social Media & PR Committee and the Presentation Committee will also be presented. Commissioners will have a public comment period and discuss upcoming community events.

• Financial Report for FY 2026 presented by the chair
• Initiative Committee updates on scholarship, movie, listening bench pop‑ups, inclusive holiday celebration, and commissioner development
• Social Media and PR Committee report (Wizdom Media and other services)
• Public comment period (2‑minute maximum per speaker)
• Presentation Committee schedule of upcoming speakers and agency representatives

The Social Justice Commission approved the minutes from the March 23, 2026 meeting. The 2026 budget remains pending, with an estimated draft to be sent to administration. Several initiative updates were reported, including scholarship application extensions and upcoming community events.

• Approved March 23, 2026 minutes (unanimous)
• Noted 2026 budget is pending; draft to be sent for approval

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will consider a minor subdivision application for a property at 293 William St. The board will also address the appointment of conflict attorneys.

• Minor subdivision with Use “D” and Bulk “C” variances for Integrity Holdings & Development LLC at 293 William St. (Block 308 Lot 4)
• Resolution awarding professional services to James P. Nolan & Associates, LLC and Eric Lange, Esq. as Zoning Board Conflict Attorneys
• Swearing in of Ms. Kelly Cruz

Alcoholic Beverage Control Board

The Alcoholic Beverage Control Board will approve the minutes from its March 11, 2026 meeting, hear public comments, receive police reports, and consider a resolution to hold an executive closed session. No substantive policy items are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of March 11, 2026 meeting minutes
• Public comment period (3 minutes per speaker)
• Police reports
• Resolution approving an executive closed session (2026-01-04)

Rahway City Council

The Rahway City Council adopted Resolution AR-120-26, approving a professional services contract with ACRISURE NJ Partners Insurance Services, LLC to provide risk manager services for the 2026 Joint Insurance Fund. The motion passed with all six councilmembers present voting yes; three members were absent. The council also voted to close the public hearing portion of the meeting and then adjourned the session.

• Approved professional services contract with ACRISURE NJ Partners (yes: Eastman, Gibilisco, Miles, Mojica, Newbury, Brooks)
• Closed public hearing portion of the meeting (yes: Eastman, Gibilisco, Miles, Mojica, Newbury, Brooks)
• Adjourned the meeting (voice vote, no objection)

Environmental Commission

The Rahway Environmental Commission will consider a site‑plan review for the property at 280 St. Georges Ave. The meeting will also include updates on the Vital Signs program, a waterway spill in Rahway, and the NJ Sustainability Application. Additional items include an Earth Day clean‑up discussion and reports from the Rahway River Watershed Association.

• Site‑plan review for 280 St. Georges Ave., Rahway
• Discussion of Earth Day Clean Up
• Update on waterway spill in Rahway
• Updates from Rahway River Watershed Association
• Review of NJ Sustainability Application

The commission approved the minutes from the March 12, 2026 meeting after a motion by Commissioner Carchia and a second by Commissioner Bijlani. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous motion from Commissioner Antisz, seconded by Commissioner Keane. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved March 12, 2026 meeting minutes (motion by Carchia, seconded by Bijlani)
• Adjourned meeting unanimously (motion by Antisz, seconded by Keane)

Rahway City Council

The Rahway City Council will review documents for a property acquisition and various 2026 capital improvement projects. The agenda also includes adopted resolutions and ordinances regarding community cats, traffic violations, and a streetscape improvement bond project.

• Property acquisition at St. Marks
• 2026 Capital Improvements
• Amending Chapter 141 regarding community cats
• Amending Chapter 401 regarding traffic violations
• Streetscape Improvements (Banner Pole Project)

The council approved the March 2, 2026 meeting minutes and accepted the March bill payments. Two bond ordinances were introduced and adopted on first reading, authorizing $2,750,000 and $2,500,000 in bonds. A consent agenda covering resolutions AR-95-26 through AR-119-26 was adopted, and Resolution AR-97-26 was passed with one abstention. The public hearing portion of the meeting was formally closed.

• Approved March 2, 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted payment of March 2026 city bills (unanimous)
• Adopted Bond Ordinance O-12-26 authorizing $2,750,000 in bonds (unanimous)
• Adopted Bond Ordinance O-13-26 authorizing $2,500,000 in bonds (unanimous)
• Adopted consent‑agenda resolutions AR-95-26 through AR-119-26 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution AR-97-26 (YES: Brown, Eastman, Gibilisco, Miles, Mojica, Brooks; ABSTAIN: Newbury)
• Closed the public hearing portion of the meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider adopting the New Jersey Housing Element and Fair Share Plan as part of Rahway’s Master Plan. It will also consider two minor subdivision/site‑plan applications—one for East Cherry Street (Block 317 Lot 13) by Watt Hotel LLC and another for 1403 Irving Street (Block 316 Lot 3.02). The Board will approve any corrections to the minutes from the February 24, 2026 meeting and will hear a report from the Zoning Board Chair.

• Review and adopt New Jersey Housing Element and Fair Share Plan (Master Plan)
• Memorialize minor subdivision application East Cherry Street, Block 317 Lot 13, Watt Hotel LLC
• Consider minor site‑plan application for 1403 Irving St., Block 316 Lot 3.02
• Approve changes to Planning Board minutes from February 24, 2026
• Receive report from Zoning Board Chair

Social Justice Commission

The Social Justice Commission will welcome new commissioners and review the status of various community initiatives. The body will also receive a financial report for FY 2026 and discuss a three-month calendar of local events.

• Review of FY 2026 financial report and pending transactions
• Status updates on initiatives including Scholarships, Social Justice Movie, and Listening Bench pop-up events
• Discussion of Student and Parents Rights and Responsibilities in Schools
• Planning for April events including Autism Networking Night (4/1) and SJC Movie Night (4/11)
• Scheduling of upcoming presenters including Ronald McCray and United Way LRAP program

The Social Justice Commission approved the March 23, 2026 meeting minutes. It decided to order apparel, trucker hats and windbreakers for new and all commissioners. The scholarship application deadline was set for April 17, 2026 and the next committee movie will be "The Lorax". Additional plans include a “Know Your Rights” event and increased social‑media posting.

• Approved March 23, 2026 minutes (approved by Brenda Caceres and Karla Alvarez)
• Ordered apparel, trucker hats and windbreakers for new and all commissioners
• Set scholarship application deadline for April 17, 2026
• Selected "The Lorax" as the next movie event
• Planned a “Know Your Rights” event with Board of Education, SJC and Police (date TBD)
• Increased Wizdom Media posts from 2 to 3 per month
• Social media committee to revise Wizdom contract
• SJC to post more content on traffic and e‑bike concerns

Rahway Redevelopment Agency

The Rahway Redevelopment Agency will adopt several resolutions, including appointing a secretary with a $5,000 annual stipend. It will accept a Hazardous Discharge Site Remediation Fund grant of up to $878,044.95 for the Summit Finishing site. The agency will approve a professional services contract with T&M Associates for up to $8,500 for environmental engineering related to 173 Main Street. It will also extend the conditional developer status for 252 Westcott Drive LLC and approve the February 18, 2026 meeting minutes.

• Appointment of Molly Ortiz as secretary with a $5,000 annual stipend
• Acceptance of a grant up to $878,044.95 from the Hazardous Discharge Site Remediation Fund
• Approval of a professional services contract with T&M Associates for up to $8,500 for environmental engineering at 173 Main Street
• Extension of conditional developer status for 252 Westcott Drive LLC
• Adoption of minutes from the February 18, 2026 regular meeting

The agency appointed a secretary, accepted a grant from the Hazardous Discharge Site Remediation Fund, and approved a professional services contract with T&M Associates. All three resolutions passed unanimously. The meeting minutes were approved and the meeting was adjourned.

• Appointed a secretary to the agency (7-0)
• Accepted a grant from the Hazardous Discharge Site Remediation Fund (7-0)
• Approved a professional services contract with T&M Associates (7-0)
• Approved February 18, 2026 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (7-0)

Environmental Commission

The Rahway Environmental Commission will consider appointing a new commissioner. It will receive updates on Vital Signs, the Earth Day Clean Up, and the Rahway River Watershed. The commission will also review site‑plan items and address payment of bills.

• Appointment of new commissioner
• Update on Vital Signs (presented by Fran)
• Earth Day Clean Up
• Updates from Rahway River Watershed – Commissioner Carchia
• Site Plan Review/Planning & Zoning Board items

The commission approved the minutes from the February 12, 2026 meeting. The commission appointed Mr. Tim Antisz as the First Alternate Commissioner. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved February 12 minutes (motion by Commissioner Carchia, seconded by Commissioner Keane)
• Appointed Tim Antisz as First Alternate Commissioner

Alcoholic Beverage Control Board

The Rahway Alcoholic Beverage Control Board will conduct routine business, including approval of the January 7, 2026 meeting minutes. The key item is a resolution to transfer Pocket Retail Consumption License 2023-33-034-013 from SOS ARY, Inc. to Mighty Defense, Inc. The board will also consider an executive closed‑session resolution and hear brief public comments.

• Approve minutes from the January 7, 2026 meeting
• Resolution to transfer Pocket Retail Consumption License 2023-33-034-013 from SOS ARY, Inc. to Mighty Defense, Inc.
• Resolution approving an executive closed session
• Public comment period (3 minutes per speaker)
• Police reports

The Alcoholic Beverage Control Board nominated and approved Matthew Dobrowolski as chair with a unanimous vote. The board then moved into an executive closed session, approved a resolution for that session, and later moved out of the closed session, each by unanimous vote. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Elected Matthew Dobrowolski as board chair (3-0)
• Moved into executive closed session (3-0)
• Approved resolution for executive closed session (3-0)
• Moved out of executive closed session (3-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (3-0)

Social Justice Commission

The Social Justice Commission will receive a financial report on FY 2026 status and pending transactions, a City Council liaison update, and reports from initiative, social media, and presentation committees. Commissioners will discuss progress on scholarships, movie nights, listening‑bench pop‑ups, and other community projects, and may vote on new initiatives if a quorum is present. The meeting also includes a public comment period and a look ahead at upcoming events.

• Financial Report: FY 2026 status and pending/anticipated transactions
• City Council Liaison Report on relevant city council news
• Initiative Committees Report covering scholarships, movie night, listening‑bench pop‑ups, student ambassador, PSAs, outreach, and other projects
• Social Media and PR Committee Report on Wizdom Media, newsletter, QR keychains
• Presentation Committee schedule of upcoming presenters (e.g., Ronald McCray, United Way LRAP program)

The Social Justice Commission decided to award 12 scholarships (4 academic, 4 volunteer, 4 future accelerator) and will have the scholarship application approved at the next meeting on 3/23. The board secretary was directed to order polo shirts, beanie hats, scarves, windbreakers and trucker hats for commissioners. The commission also plans to renew its contract with Wizdom Media for three social‑media posts per month. No vote tallies were recorded.

• Award 12 scholarships (decision made, vote not recorded)
• Order polo shirts, beanie hats, scarves for new commissioners (directive)
• Order windbreakers and trucker hats for all commissioners (directive)
• Renew Wizdom Media contract for three monthly social media posts (planned)

Rahway City Council

The Rahway City Council will review three first‑read ordinances covering animal control, traffic violations, and a finance bond for a streetscape banner pole project. It will also adopt previously approved resolutions and two ordinances amending the construction code and cannabis signage regulations. All items are listed in the meeting packet documents.

• Amend Chapter 141, Animals – Section 141-25 Community Cats
• Amend Chapter 401, Vehicles and Traffic – Section 3 Violations and Penalties
• Finance Bond for Streetscape Improvements (Banner Pole Project)
• Adopt amendment to Chapter 177, Construction Code – Uniform
• Adopt amendment to Chapter 421, Zoning – Class 5 Cannabis Signage Regulations

The Rahway City Council approved a resolution authorizing the mayor to enter an agreement with Merck for the purchase of water and a separate resolution canceling the receipt of bids for the sale of the city water utility. The council also adopted a bond ordinance allocating $400,000 for streetscape improvements and passed three ordinances on community cats, vehicle violations, and other matters. All items were adopted with unanimous votes of the eight present councilmembers.

• Adopted resolution authorizing mayor to enter agreement with Merck for purchase of water (vote 8-0)
• Adopted resolution canceling receipt of bids for sale of the water utility (vote 8-0)
• Adopted bond ordinance appropriating $400,000 for streetscape improvements (vote 8-0)
• Adopted ordinance amending Chapter 141 to allow health officer approval of community cat caregivers (vote 8-0)
• Adopted ordinance amending Chapter 401 vehicle violations and penalties (vote 8-0)
• Adopted consent agenda resolutions AR-72-26 through AR-94-26 (vote 8-0)
• Approved February 2, 2026 regular and executive session minutes (vote 8-0)
• Adopted ordinance on community cats and ordinance on vehicle violations as first‑reading items (vote 8-0)

Planning Board

The Rahway Planning Board will review a minor subdivision application (Application #02/26) for Watt Hotel LLC located at 1403 Irving St., Block 317 Lot 13 on East Cherry Street. The board will also review a minor site‑plan application (Application #01/26) for Block 316 Lot 3.02. In addition, the board will approve the minutes from the January 27, 2026 meeting and hear a report from the Zoning Board Chair.

• Review minor subdivision application #02/26 for Watt Hotel LLC, Block 317 Lot 13, East Cherry Street
• Review minor site‑plan application #01/26, Block 316 Lot 3.02
• Approve minutes of the January 27, 2026 Planning Board meeting
• Receive report from the Zoning Board Chair
• Swearing‑in of new board members

The Board voted to approve the East Cherry Street minor subdivision application, which creates two lots—Lot 13.01 for the private owner and Lot 13.02 for the City. The City’s lot will be used as a passive park, and the required lot‑area, width, depth and rear‑yard setback variances were granted. The motion passed unanimously with all present commissioners voting yes and no absences.

• Approved East Cherry St. minor subdivision and all required variances (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

Rahway Redevelopment Agency

The Rahway Redevelopment Agency will adopt the minutes from its January 28, 2026 re‑organizational meeting and receive reports from the Treasurer, Engineering, Planning, and Executive Director. Commissioners will consider two resolutions: one to contract T&M Associates for environmental engineering due‑diligence at specific Milton and Pierce Street parcels, and another to contract MCMANIMON, SCOTLAND, & BAUMANN, LLC for legal services. The meeting also includes a public comment period and commissioner comments.

• Resolution 21-26: Contract T&M Associates for environmental engineering services at 97 E Milton and Pierce Street parcels
• Resolution 22-26: Contract MCMANIMON, SCOTLAND, & BAUMANN, LLC for professional legal services
• Adopt minutes from the January 28, 2026 re‑organizational meeting
• Treasurer's report presented by Frank Ruggiero
• Engineering report presented by Peter Bondar of T&M

The Rahway Redevelopment Agency adopted Resolution 21-26 to hire T&M Associates for environmental engineering services and Resolution 22-26 to hire McManimon, Scotland, & Baumann, LLC for legal services. Both contracts were approved by the board. The board also approved the minutes from the January 28, 2026 meeting. Vote details are shown as X marks in the minutes but specific tallies are not listed.

• Approved professional services contract to T&M Associates for environmental engineering (Resolution 21-26) – vote details not specified
• Approved professional services contract to McManimon, Scotland, & Baumann, LLC for legal services (Resolution 22-26) – vote details not specified
• Approved minutes of the January 28, 2026 meeting – vote details not specified

Environmental Commission

The Rahway Environmental Commission will discuss ongoing participation in the Community Solar program and monitor related agenda items. It will review potential involvement in a Sustainable Jersey grant for an environmental resource inventory. Updates will be given on Bayway Community Advisory Panel attendance, the Rahway River Watershed Association grant, and the 2026 commission calendar of events. The commission will also approve two small payment orders.

• Rahway Community Solar Program – commission will monitor upcoming agendas and program developments
• Sustainable Jersey Grant – potential interest in pursuing a grant for environmental resource inventory
• Bayway CAP Meetings – city confirmed attendance at upcoming Bayway Community Advisory Panel meetings
• RRWA grant support for Hudson River Foundation – update provided
• Payment of bills: PO #153790 – County of Union printing $6.20; PO #153792 – ANJEC membership $472.00

The commission approved the minutes from the January 9, 2025 meeting. It voted to join the Community Solar program and will monitor its progress. A motion to adjourn the meeting was unanimously approved. Commissioners also took actions such as contacting a sunscreen‑dispensing company and obtaining pricing for promotional hats and shirts.

• Approved minutes of Jan 9, 2025 meeting (motion by Keane, seconded by Carchia)
• Approved participation in the Community Solar program (no vote recorded)
• Unanimously approved motion to adjourn meeting (motion by Carchia, seconded by Zafra)
• Commissioner Zafra volunteered to contact Vital Signs Media for sunscreen device info
• Commissioner Keane will obtain pricing for hats and shirts
• Confirmed ANJEC membership dues have been paid
• Noted Phillips 66 scholarship up to $10,000 available for seniors
• Established proposed 2026 Environmental Commission calendar events

Social Justice Commission

The Social Justice Commission will welcome and onboard 2026-2027 commissioners and prepare to elect officers. The body will review the FY2025 budget and discuss the pending FY2026 budget.

• Onboarding of 2026-2027 Commissioners
• Report on FY2025 Budget and pending FY2026 Budget
• Updates on initiatives including Downtown Disability Access Program and Student Ambassador program
• Planning for February events including Pan African Flag Raising and World Social Justice Day
• Announcement of open applications for RSJC Scholarships on February 26th

The commission met via Microsoft Teams and completed required open‑meeting notices. Reports were given on the pending 2026 budget, scholarship coordination with the Board of Education, and plans for commissioner training. The Social Media and PR Committee indicated it will renew Wizdom Media’s contract. No votes or formal approvals occurred.

Rahway City Council

The Rahway City Council will consider several first‑read ordinances, including an amendment to Chapter 177 of the Construction Code and a zoning amendment for cannabis signage. It will also adopt resolutions and ordinances covering special emergency terminal pay for retired employees and multiple changes to Police Chapter 401 permit parking on Central Avenue, Campbell Street, Essex Street, Johnson Street, and East Milton. All items are listed in the meeting packet documents.

• Amend Chapter 177 of the Construction Code (O-7-26)
• Amend Chapter 421 to permit cannabis signage (O-8-26)
• Adopt special emergency terminal pay for retired employees (O-1-26)
• Add and remove permit parking on Central Avenue (O-2-26, O-3-26)
• Adjust handicap and permit parking on Campbell St, Essex St, Johnson St, East Milton (O-4-26, O-5-26, O-6-26)

The Rahway City Council adopted Ordinance O‑8‑26 to change signage regulations for Class 5 cannabis‑licensed retail businesses, passing 7‑1. It also adopted Ordinance O‑7‑26 amending construction codes with a unanimous vote. The council approved the January 12 minutes, accepted the January bill payments, and adopted a series of routine resolutions on the consent agenda, including the insurance‑fund incentive program.

• Adopted Ordinance O‑8‑26 (cannabis signage) 7‑1
• Adopted Ordinance O‑7‑26 (construction code amendment) unanimous
• Approved January 12, 2026 meeting minutes unanimous
• Accepted payment of January bills
• Adopted Resolution AR‑53‑26 (insurance fund incentive) as part of consent agenda unanimous
• Adopted Resolutions AR‑53‑26 through AR‑71‑26 on consent agenda unanimous
• Adopted Resolution AR‑53A‑26 to enter executive closed session unanimous
• Closed public hearing portions of the meeting unanimously

Rahway Redevelopment Agency

The Rahway Redevelopment Agency will hold a re‑organizational meeting to elect a Chairman and a Vice Chairman. Commissioners will also approve the minutes from the December 10, 2025 special meeting and consider a series of resolutions, including appointing a secretary and authorizing the 2026 budget. No presentations are scheduled, and the public may comment for up to two minutes per person.

• Election of Chairman for the Rahway Redevelopment Agency
• Election of Vice Chairman for the Rahway Redevelopment Agency
• Approval of minutes from the December 10, 2025 special meeting
• Resolution appointing a secretary of the Rahway Redevelopment Agency
• Resolution for adoption of the 2026 budget

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Rahway Zoning Board of Adjustment will elect a new Chairman, Vice‑Chairman, and Secretary. It will adopt a resolution appointing T&M Associates as Board Engineer, McManimon, Scotland & Baumann as Board Attorney, Shamrock Enterprises as Planner, and CME Associates as Conflict Engineer. The board will also approve the 2026‑2027 meeting calendar and consider two pending applications: a conditional use for Car Planet Corp. at 270 St. Georges Ave. and a variance for Dmitriy Pravednov at 1498 Church Street.

• Election of Chairman, Vice‑Chairman, and Secretary (reorganization meeting)
• Resolution appointing T&M Associates as Board Engineer
• Resolution appointing McManimon, Scotland & Baumann as Board Attorney
• Resolution appointing Shamrock Enterprises as Planner
• Approval of the 2026‑2027 Zoning Board meeting calendar

The Zoning Board of Adjustment elected William Hering as Chairman and Richard Zdan as Vice Chairman. It adopted resolutions appointing board professionals, approved the 2025‑2026 meeting calendar, and adopted the board's rules and regulations. Two applications – a conditional use for Car Planet Corp. and a variance for Dmitriy Pravednov – were approved. The minutes of the December 15, 2025 meeting were approved and the meeting was adjourned.

• Elected William Hering as Chairman (motion approved, all present voted yes)
• Elected Richard Zdan as Vice Chairman (motion approved, all present voted yes)
• Adopted resolution appointing T&M Associates as Board Engineer, McManimon, Scotland & Baumann, LLC. as Board Attorney, Shamrock Enterprises as Planner, CME Associates as Conflict Engineer (approved)
• Adopted 2025‑2026 Zoning Board meeting calendar (approved)
• Adopted rules and regulations of the Zoning Board of Adjustment (approved)
• Approved Car Planet Corp. conditional use application #3/25 (approved)
• Approved Dmitriy Pravednov variance application #10/25 (approved)
• Approved minutes of the December 15, 2025 meeting (approved)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will elect its officers and appoint professional services for the year. The board will also consider a site plan application for Wend American Group LLC.

• Election of Chairman, Vice-Chairman, and Secretary
• Appointment of Board Engineer (T&M Associates), Board Attorney (McManimon, Scotland & Baumann, LLC), and Board Planner (Heyer, Gruel & Associates)
• Appointment of Planning Board Conflict Engineer (CME Associates)
• Memorialization of Preliminary and Final Major Site Plan for Wend American Group LLC at 1714 Rt. 1 South (Block 337 Lot 1)
• Approval of the 2026–2027 meeting calendar

The Planning Board elected Robert Simon as Chairman, William Hering as Vice Chairman, and Steven Decker as Secretary. It adopted a resolution appointing professional service firms and board staff. The Board also approved the 2025‑2026 meeting calendar, its Rules and Regulations, and memorialized a Wend American Group LLC site‑plan application.

• Elected Robert Simon as Chairman (approved 8‑0‑0)
• Elected William Hering as Vice Chairman (approved 8‑0‑0)
• Appointed Steven Decker as Secretary (approved 8‑0‑0)
• Adopted resolution awarding professional services to T&M Associates, McManimon, Scotland & Baumann, Heyer, Gruel & Associates, CME Associates and appointing board engineer, attorney, planner, and conflict engineer (approved 8‑0‑0)
• Adopted 2025‑2026 Planning Board meeting calendar (approved 8‑0‑0)
• Adopted Planning Board Rules and Regulations (approved 8‑0‑0)
• Memorialized Wend American Group LLC application for preliminary and final major site plan (approved 6‑0‑2)
• Approved minutes of the December 16, 2026 meeting (approved 6‑0‑2)

Rahway City Council

The Rahway City Council will review several first‑read ordinances related to permit parking and handicapped parking on Central Ave, Essex St, and Campbell St. They will also consider the adopted resolutions packet. All items are listed in the meeting packet documents.

• First‑read ordinance: Special Emergency Terminal Pay – Retired Employees (O-1-26)
• First‑read ordinance: Remove permit parking – Central Ave (O-2-26)
• First‑read ordinance: Add permit parking – Central Ave (O-3-26)
• First‑read ordinance: Handicapped parking – 1516 Campbell St (O-4-26)
• First‑read ordinance: Add permit parking – Essex St, Johnson St, East Milton (O-5-26)

Environmental Commission

The Environmental Commission will discuss updates on several local projects and establish goals for 2025. The body will also review correspondence regarding a Merck NJDEP Treatment Works application.

• Correspondence from IPS regarding Merck NJDEP Treatment Works Approved Application
• Updates on Rain Garden curb cuts
• Status of Proposed Community Solar Project for Rahway
• Updates on Bazega Park/1819 Allen St. House and East Cherry St. project
• Discussion on a proposed dog park in Rahway

The Rahway Environmental Commission approved the minutes of its regular meeting held on December 4, 2025 after a motion by Commissioner Carchia and a second by Commissioner Keane. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously following a motion by Commissioner Carchia and a second by Commissioner Bijlani. No other actions were decided; all other items remain pending.

• Approved minutes of Dec 4, 2025 meeting (motion by Carchia, seconded by Keane)
• Adjourned meeting unanimously (motion by Carchia, seconded by Bijlani)

Alcoholic Beverage Control Board

The Rahway Alcoholic Beverage Control Board will swear in Commissioner Dobrowski and elect a chair for 2026. It will also approve the minutes from the December 10, 2025 meeting and consider new and unfinished business items. A resolution to hold an executive closed session on Jan 1, 2026 will be adopted.

• Swearing‑in of Commissioner Dobrowski
• Nomination and election of chair for 2026
• Approval of minutes from the Dec. 10, 2025 regular meeting
• Resolution approving an executive closed session on Jan. 1, 2026

The Alcoholic Beverage Control Board swore in Commissioner Dobrowolski and approved his election as chair with unanimous votes. The board then voted to enter and later exit an executive closed session, and finally adjourned the meeting, all with unanimous support.

• Swore in Commissioner Matthew Dobrowolski (AYE: Dobrowolski, Hall, Rengifo)
• Elected Matthew Dobrowolski as board chair for 2026 (AYE: Dobrowolski, Hall, Rengifo)
• Moved into executive closed session (AYE: Dobrowolski, Hall, Rengifo)
• Approved resolution for executive closed session (AYE: Dobrowolski, Hall, Rengifo)
• Moved out of executive closed session (AYE: Dobrowolski, Hall, Rengifo)
• Adjourned the meeting (AYE: Dobrowolski, Hall, Rengifo)

Rahway City Council

Councilmember Brooks was elected Council President for 2026 by a unanimous vote of the seven members present. Councilmember Mojica was elected Council Vice President for 2026 by the same unanimous vote. The council adopted Consent Agenda Resolutions AR‑01‑26 through AR‑11‑26, covering a professional services contract, meeting schedule, board appointments, cash management plan, temporary budget and other items, with unanimous approval. The public hearing portion was closed and the meeting adjourned at 7:22 p.m. by voice vote.

• Elected Councilmember Brooks as Council President (YES: Brown, Eastman, Gibilisco, Miles, Mojica, Parson, Brooks)
• Elected Councilmember Mojica as Council Vice President (YES: Brown, Eastman, Gibilisco, Miles, Mojica, Parson, Brooks)
• Adopted Consent Agenda Resolutions AR‑01‑26 through AR‑11‑26 (YES: Brown, Eastman, Gibilisco, Miles, Mojica, Parson, Brooks)
• Closed public hearing portion of the meeting (YES: Brown, Eastman, Gibilisco, Miles, Mojica, Parson, Brooks)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:22 p.m. (voice vote, no objection)