During a recent government meeting, residents of Newark voiced their frustrations regarding ongoing issues related to abandoned houses, parking shortages, and inadequate traffic planning. Community members expressed that the presence of abandoned properties is contributing to a dangerous environment, urging officials to take immediate action.

One resident highlighted the challenges of parking in the city, particularly around Hawthorne Avenue and Leslie, stating that the current situation forces residents to park far from their homes. They criticized the city’s planning efforts, claiming that new developments are exacerbating existing traffic problems rather than alleviating them. Concerns were raised about the lack of traffic studies being conducted, with calls for better pre-planning and communication with residents before implementing changes.

Another speaker pointed out the need for accessibility measures for visually impaired individuals, emphasizing that the city has not provided adequate resources such as interpreters or accessible documents for public review. This lack of inclusivity was seen as a significant oversight in the planning process.

The discussion also touched on the financial burdens placed on residents, with one speaker lamenting that the current policies could lead to future generations being unable to afford living in Newark. The sentiment was echoed by others who expressed concern over the impact of taxation and development on low-income families.

Overall, the meeting underscored a growing frustration among Newark residents regarding city management and the perceived neglect of their needs in urban planning and development decisions. The community is calling for more transparency, accountability, and a focus on the well-being of all residents as the city continues to evolve.