Newark residents demand action against L&M's management at Georgia King Village amid housing crisis

In a recent Newark Municipal Council meeting held on December 4, 2024, significant concerns were raised regarding the management of Georgia King Village and the broader issue of affordable housing in Newark. The discussions highlighted the struggles faced by extremely low-income residents and the perceived failures of current property management.

Residents expressed their frustrations with L&M Development, labeling them as "slumlords" and demanding a change in management at Georgia King Village. They described the current management as degrading and humiliating, contributing to a decline in community morale and exacerbating issues such as depression and homelessness. The call for new management reflects a broader demand for accountability and better living conditions for vulnerable populations in Newark.

The meeting also addressed the pressing need for affordable housing in the city. Richard Dunn, a senior vice president at Paramount SS, pointed out a significant shortfall of nearly 16,000 affordable housing units in Newark. He emphasized that if developers collaborated effectively, this gap could be closed. The discussion underscored the importance of incentivizing developers to focus on building affordable housing rather than luxury apartments, which have proliferated in the area.

The urgency of these issues is compounded by a recent report from the State Department of Community Affairs, which is expected to outline housing needs that municipalities must incorporate into local zoning laws. The report is anticipated to shed light on the severe cost burdens faced by low-income households, many of whom spend over half their income on housing, often at the expense of other essential needs like food and healthcare.

As Newark prepares for a demographic shift with new residents and visitors, the council's discussions signal a critical moment for the city. The community's trust in elected officials is waning, and there is a pressing need for action to ensure that the renaissance of Newark includes all its residents, particularly those in need of affordable housing solutions. The council's next steps will be crucial in addressing these challenges and restoring faith in local governance.