The Newark Municipal Council held a special meeting on September 9, 2025, where significant discussions centered around communication issues related to Benjamin Moore, a prominent local business. Eric Pennington, the supervisor of the law department and economic and housing development, expressed concerns regarding a letter from an attorney representing Benjamin Moore. He criticized the attorney for not reaching out to him prior to addressing the council, highlighting a breakdown in communication that could impact local business relations.

Pennington noted that this was the first time he had received such correspondence, despite previous discussions with the president of Benjamin Moore and the mayor over a year ago. This situation underscores the importance of direct communication between businesses and city officials to address any potential issues proactively.

The meeting concluded without further public comments, but the council's focus on this matter reflects a commitment to fostering better relationships with local businesses and ensuring that concerns are addressed in a timely manner. Moving forward, it will be crucial for both the council and local businesses to enhance their communication strategies to prevent misunderstandings and promote a collaborative environment.