Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Newark public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues with low priority
Outfront Media billboard back rent
The city will collect about $105,000 in back rent plus $21,600/year going forward on a billboard lease on city-owned property.
Sister Cities Relationship with Canton of Nabón, Ecuador
Newark formalized a sister-city partnership with the Canton of Nabón in Ecuador, aimed at cultural and economic exchanges. A ceremony will follow.
Parking limits on certain commercial establishments
The council added a new section to the parking code limiting how certain commercial establishments may use street parking — aimed at curbing businesses monopolizing curb space.
2026 Special Improvement District Budgets
The council adopted 2026 budgets for the Ironbound, Mt. Prospect, Downtown, Bloomfield-Broadway and Newark Alliance districts, funded by special assessments that pay for cleaning, marketing and streetscape work in those commercial areas.
Sister Cities Relationship with Arcos de Valdevez, Portugal
Newark formalized a sister cities partnership with Vila Nova de Cerveira, Portugal, aimed at cultural and economic exchanges.
Zoning code amendment referral
A proposed change to Newark's zoning and land use rules (Title 41, Chapter 10) was sent to the Central Planning Board for review.
Tourism district fee administration
A housekeeping fix: hotel-stay tourism fees will formally be collected by Economic and Housing Development instead of the tax collector, with an admin fee deducted before money goes to the tourism district.
Parking ban on yard frontage
A new ordinance would prohibit parking vehicles on yard frontage; it cleared first reading and heads to a February 4 public hearing.
Film permitting and resident notification
Residents complain they get no notice when film crews take over their streets. The administration gave out a direct film office phone number and promised location manager contacts on signage.
Treadwell Street parking changes
Parking rules on Treadwell Street between Ridge Street and Mount Prospect Avenue shifted: street-cleaning restrictions moved to the south side and parking is now banned at all times on the north side.