Residents demand urgent repairs and safety measures for Pilgrim Village apartments

Concerns over unsafe living conditions and community support took center stage at the Newark Municipal Council meeting on June 4, 2025. Residents voiced urgent complaints about deteriorating conditions in their buildings, particularly highlighting issues like mold, malfunctioning elevators, and inadequate maintenance.

One resident passionately described the dire state of their building, citing mold infestations and a lack of proper inspections. "They come to do inspection, take it down, put another new piece up there. What about the mold? The mold is still there," they stated, emphasizing the neglect faced by tenants. The resident also raised alarming safety concerns, recounting incidents where individuals, including a firefighter, were injured due to faulty elevators.

Another speaker, Latoya Jackson Tucker, shifted the focus to community unity and support. She reflected on her personal struggles and the importance of communication among residents. "If we don't understand that we need to be together, we're gonna keep going through this stuff," she urged, calling for collective action to address the challenges faced by the community.

In response to the residents' concerns, the council committed to forwarding the issues raised to relevant departments for further investigation and action. The meeting underscored the urgent need for improved living conditions and stronger community ties in Newark, as residents continue to advocate for their rights and safety.