An ongoing feud between two City Council members in Clifton devolved into an impasse that lasted almost half an hour on Wednesday night when one demanded that the other’s seat be moved.
Marc Pfeiffer, a researcher at Rutgers’ Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy and a longtime observer of New Jersey’s local governments, attributed part of the problem to recent member turnover on the City Council. This includes the exit of James Anzaldi as mayor after more than 30 years and the deaths of members Peter Eagler and Lauren Murphy.
Demographic changes and new generations of residents have introduced new interests and issues that council members champion, making it difficult to agree on priorities.
Pfeiffer also noted that the nonpartisan nature of the council contributes to the issue. "Party leadership and discipline can often keep elected officials in line," he said.
“You also have to avoid putting people into corners,” Pfeiffer added, emphasizing the importance of keeping open ways for people to save face and remembering that they are there to do the people’s business.
NorthJersey.com, August 8, 2024
