During a recent Newark city council meeting, residents voiced urgent concerns regarding housing, police hiring practices, and community engagement in development projects.

One resident, Miss Hennett, expressed her distress over her housing situation, highlighting her previous stability at 165 Lisbeth Avenue, where she faced no significant issues. She called for assistance, particularly regarding pest control, and was assured that her concerns would be forwarded to the North Housing Authority.

Ayesha Holman raised issues about the police hiring process, alleging racial bias in the sight test administered to her son, Aziz Williams, who was denied a position despite passing all other requirements. Holman urged the council to investigate the hiring practices, claiming that many Black applicants face unfair treatment.

Madera el Boumani criticized the council for neglecting the needs of vulnerable elderly residents and called for greater accountability regarding tax abatements granted to developers. He emphasized the need for an independent monitor over the tax abatement program, citing widespread complaints about maintenance issues in properties benefiting from these incentives.

John Goldstein addressed proposed changes to the Newark River Public Access and Redevelopment Plan, arguing that the focus has shifted from community needs to developer interests. He called for more affordable housing provisions, a comprehensive traffic study, and local hiring commitments for jobs created by the project.

Tanisha Garner echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of community input in development decisions. She criticized the lack of engagement from city officials and developers in discussions about the impact of new projects on local neighborhoods.

Donna Jackson expressed frustration over the disparity between development in certain areas of Newark and the neglect of low-income neighborhoods. She highlighted the ongoing eviction crisis and the need for policies that protect residents from displacement.

The meeting underscored a growing demand for transparency, accountability, and community involvement in Newark's governance and development strategies, as residents seek to ensure that their voices are heard in shaping the future of their city.