Newark Municipal Council Regular Meeting - March 4, 2026

The Newark Municipal Council held its regular meeting on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at 12:30 PM in the Council Chamber at City Hall. All nine council members were present. The meeting included the adoption of a consent agenda of reports and recommendations, first reading of an ordinance, consideration of numerous resolutions, public comments, and council motions. Notable actions included approval of a $300,000 litigation settlement, acceptance of a $4 million grant for Broadway Park redesign, and a sister city agreement with Vila Nova de Cerveira, Portugal. Public comments featured concerns about city cleanliness, housing issues, and political campaigns. Council members also introduced new legislative proposals and honored community members.

Consent Calendar

• Reports and Recommendations (Items 5-a, 5-b): Financial statements for JSF Broad Street EX Urban Renewal LLC and minutes from the North Jersey District Water Supply Commission were accepted unanimously.

Public Comments & Testimony

Fourteen citizens were scheduled to speak; nine appeared. Key speakers and their positions:

• Alif Muhammad: Described a physical altercation with Deputy Mayor Rachman Muhammad, alleging aggressive behavior and a broken resolution. He stated he did not want further conflict out of respect for Deputy Mayor's mother.
• Fahkeria Bradley: Challenged a harassment charge (filed over a raised middle finger during a council interaction) as a violation of First Amendment rights and due process. She requested the council ensure fair enforcement and investigate perceived retaliation.
• Lamont Vaughn: Announced his candidacy for office (May 12, 2026 election), criticized development that displaces residents, and called for justice in the Wally Bay case.
• Malik H. Cooper: Also running for council at-large, criticized the council for rubber-stamping items, long tax abatements, and lack of accountability. Urged community to vote for change.
• Queen Dannisha Clyburn: Praised Councilman Silva for snow response but demanded better snow removal and trash collection. Raised concerns about children smoking in restaurants and called for parental responsibility. Urged voting on May 12. Later interrupted council proceedings and was removed from chambers.
• Deborah Salters: Accused the council of mismanaging funds, leading to dirty streets, parking ticket surges, and burdening residents. Opposed the sister city resolution as not benefiting Newark. Encouraged voters to "treat them like the garbage" on May 12.
• Quadeer Porter: Provided an update on Brothers Building a Better Nation, a mentorship and mental health program. Reported growth in revenue from $188,000 to $512,000. Requested a resolution honoring deceased clinician William A. Moore and noted delays in grant disbursement from the city.
• Darnella Lee: Discussed mold and water bill issues at United Community Village senior housing. Showed photos of damage and alleged negligence by management. Requested inspection and action.
• Latoya Jackson-Tucker: Expressed disappointment with police handling of her son's case, alleging the department wants him to inform on his community. Called for more support for families and youth.

Discussion Items

• Resolution 7R6-a (Settlement): Authorized a $300,000 settlement from the Insurance Trust Fund for civil litigation (Vanessa Williams Powell v. City). Vote: 7-1-1 (President Crump opposed, Councilman Kelly abstained).
• Resolution 7R8-a (Sister City): Established a sister city relationship with Vila Nova de Cerveira, Portugal, sponsored by Councilman Quintana. Passed unanimously.
• Resolution 7R11-a (Broadway Park Grant): Accepted a $4 million Green Acres Grant to redesign Broadway Park. City contribution $2.86 million. Passed unanimously.
• Added Starters (Items 7R2-c, d, e; 7R4-a; 7R6-b): Approved a $175,000 consulting contract (Nishuane Group), an assignment agreement for Clinton Arms apartments (72 Section-8 units), a redevelopment investigation for 153-155 Emmet Street, $30.1 million in refunding bonds, and an amendment to the C-PACE program agreement. All passed unanimously.
• Communications 8-a, 8-b: Confirmed appointment of Councilwoman Bey to the Affirmative Action Review Council (term ending March 16, 2029) and reappointment of Leon K. Baptiste (term ending Dec. 6, 2029). Passed unanimously (Councilwoman Bey voted yes for herself).
• Councilwoman Bey's 100th Day Proposals: Announced three pieces of legislation to be submitted: strengthening window guard laws, adding fines for businesses not shoveling snow, and making Eid-al-Fitr an official city holiday.

Key Outcomes

• Ordinance 6F-a (First Reading): An ordinance designating 18th Avenue and South 13th Street as a multi-way stop intersection was adopted on first reading with a unanimous vote. A public hearing is set for March 18, 2026.
• Motions Adopted:
  • Expressing profound sorrow for the passing of Nyree Collins Williams (7-0, two absent).
  • Requesting the administration provide a list of West Ward "worst landlords" (7-0).
  • Requesting a status report on repairs to the sliding roof at JFK pool (7-0).
• Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 2:14 PM.