During the Newark Municipal Council meeting on May 21, 2025, significant concerns were raised regarding housing fraud and tenant rights, particularly in relation to Georgia King Village. G. Curritin, a leader from Westmore District 13 and a resident of the village, highlighted alarming issues surrounding fraudulent practices in housing assistance programs.

Curritin pointed out that misrepresenting income to receive higher benefits, as well as attempts to bribe officials for preferential treatment, are serious violations. He emphasized that landlords must not disclose tenant information without consent and that actions such as harassment, neglecting maintenance requests, or unjust evictions constitute fraud.

In response to these issues, Mayor Ras Baraka expressed support for a protest and rally aimed at addressing breaches of contract by L&M Development Partners, the management company for Georgia King Village. The mayor called for receivership due to the company's failure to uphold their tax abatement contract, which has left residents in a precarious situation.

The meeting also included a moment of prayer for Newark residents and advocates, underscoring the community's ongoing struggles and the need for unity in addressing these pressing issues. Curritin lamented the current state of civic engagement, contrasting it with the peaceful protests of the past, and called for a return to constructive dialogue and action.

As Newark grapples with these challenges, the council's discussions signal a critical moment for tenant advocacy and accountability in housing management, with potential implications for the future of community support and governance in the city.