Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Newark public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues in development with high priority
25-year tax abatement for 722-728 Clinton Avenue mixed-use project
A South Ward project would bring 60 apartments — half of them affordable at deep income restrictions down to 20% of area median income — plus ground-floor retail and 24 parking spaces, backed by a 25-year tax abatement.
Sale of city land for new University High School
Three separate resolutions would launch preliminary studies to determine whether certain areas qualify for redevelopment designation — an early step that can lead to major redevelopment plans later.
Affordable housing financial agreement transfers (Tethys entities)
Two ordinances transferring financial agreements for 120 affordable rental units combined (82 on Irvine Turner/17th Ave, 38 on Clinton Avenue) to Tethys affiliates were held rather than approved — the projects' ownership change is on hold.
East Ward three-family near Astor Street fire property
Councilwoman Jackson said the owner of a proposed East Ward rental has not dealt in good faith with the family that lost a child in the Astor Street fire; the item stays on the agenda pending a meeting with the buyer.
Affordable housing monitoring and staffing
Council members flagged that up to half of affordable-unit tenants have turned over in two years amid an eviction court crisis, and pressed for more staffing in the Office of Affordable and Sustainable Housing and rent control.
Newark Housing Authority state takeover
A speaker reassured tenants that Section 8 and leases are unaffected by the potential HUD takeover, which would first remove commissioners and possibly the executive director.
Central Ward affordable housing developer engagement
Multiple items moved forward to build affordable housing: Jumpstart-trained developers buying three West Ward homes for 100% AMI buyers, a 19-unit affordable and supportive building with HOME funds, and Section 8 rental construction. Council Member Ramos also asked for a full accounting of HOME fund balances and allocations.