Residents demand accountability from Newark Council on tax abatements and safety concerns

Residents of Newark are raising urgent concerns about living conditions and the impact of tax abatements on their community during the latest Municipal Council meeting. A senior tenant from 140 South Orange Avenue expressed frustration over the management's neglect, highlighting issues such as pest infestations and inadequate responses to maintenance requests. “Every time we want them to do something, it doesn’t get done,” she lamented, calling for the council to defer tax credits to improve conditions in her building.

George Tillman Jr., a community advocate, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for accountability from developers seeking tax abatements. He pointed out that the New Community Homes development is requesting a 30-year tax abatement for an $80 million project while failing to address pressing safety and quality of life issues in existing buildings. Tillman urged the council to consider the residents' voices before making decisions on tax incentives, stressing the importance of a coordinated approach among various city departments to ensure that community needs are met.

Darlene Davis, president of the tenant association at 180 South Orange Avenue, also spoke about the challenges residents face, including harassment from task forces while their safety concerns remain unaddressed. The council is set to vote on the tax abatement request on July 2, and residents are hopeful that their pleas for better living conditions will influence the decision.

The discussions at the meeting reflect a growing demand for the council to prioritize resident welfare and ensure that developers fulfill their obligations to the community before receiving financial incentives. As Newark continues to navigate development and housing issues, the voices of its residents remain crucial in shaping a more equitable future.