During a recent Newark City Council meeting, heated discussions centered around a proposed ordinance for a 100% affordable senior housing project, which has sparked significant community concern regarding tax abatements and compliance issues.

Council members and residents expressed frustration over the ongoing practice of granting lengthy tax abatements to developers, with many questioning the lack of accountability and oversight. Several speakers highlighted the need for transparency regarding the entities receiving these abatements, suggesting that many are simply rebranded LLCs with the same individuals at the helm. This has led to accusations of favoritism and a lack of genuine support for local residents.

Felicia Austin Singleton, a prominent speaker, criticized the council for not ensuring that Newark residents benefit from the jobs created by these developments. She emphasized the importance of fair wages for local workers and called for a halt to the current practices that seem to favor developers over the community's needs.

Another resident, Shaqiri McDougald, raised concerns about the decision to build new structures when there are existing abandoned properties that could be renovated to provide housing more quickly. This sentiment was echoed by others who questioned the logic of new construction amidst a backdrop of vacant buildings and inadequate infrastructure.

Deputy Mayor Allison Ladd defended the ordinance, stating that it complies with state laws and is aimed at providing affordable housing for seniors. She explained that the project would offer 64 rental units at 60% of the area median income, but many residents remained skeptical about whether this truly meets the needs of the community.

The meeting concluded with a call for more rigorous oversight of tax abatements and a demand for the council to prioritize the needs of Newark residents over developers. As the council prepares to vote on the ordinance, the community remains divided, with many advocating for a more equitable approach to housing and development in Newark.