Newark residents demand action on Georgia King Village living conditions and gang intimidation

Residents of Newark's Georgia King Village voiced urgent concerns during the Newark Municipal Council meeting on May 21, 2025, highlighting severe living conditions and safety issues in their community. The meeting featured emotional testimonies from residents who described ongoing struggles with crime, inadequate housing, and neglect from property management.

One resident, Mary Rouse, shared harrowing experiences of her son being assaulted multiple times in the neighborhood, attributing the violence to intimidation from local gangs. Rouse emphasized the lack of safety for families living in Georgia King Village, stating, "I don't walk in fear. I walk with the hand of God," while calling for immediate action to improve security and living conditions.

Another resident, Ellie Kwamakumi, reported dire sanitation issues, including repeated flooding with toilet water in her basement, which has made her living situation unbearable. "This is not living," she stated, urging the council to address the health hazards posed by the unsanitary conditions.

The council meeting underscored a broader context of systemic issues facing Newark, including poverty, low-income housing deficits, and the challenges of transitional gentrification. Residents criticized the management of L and M developers, accusing them of neglect and failing to address numerous code violations over the years.

The testimonies reflect a community in distress, grappling with not only the physical conditions of their homes but also the social and economic disparities that exacerbate their plight. As residents called for a rally to demand change, the urgency of their message resonated throughout the meeting, highlighting the need for immediate intervention and support from local authorities. The council's response to these pressing issues will be crucial in determining the future of Georgia King Village and its residents.