Community Advocates Voice Concerns Over Newark's Housing and Budget Crisis

In the heart of Newark's city hall, a palpable tension filled the air as residents gathered for a special council meeting on August 28, 2025. Voices rose and emotions ran high as community members expressed their frustrations over pressing issues, including representation, budgetary concerns, and the state of local services.

One of the standout moments came from a passionate supporter of Gail Cheneyfield, who is running for the Central Ward seat in a special election. The speaker, who had initially come to observe, took the opportunity to voice their strong backing for Cheneyfield, emphasizing her commitment to the community. "She won't abandon us like Monica did," they declared, referencing the previous council member's resignation that left the ward without representation for an entire year. The speaker's fervor highlighted a deep-seated desire for reliable leadership and accountability in local governance.

As the meeting progressed, Felicia Austin Singleton took the floor, voicing her discontent with the current state of city services. She criticized the delay in budget preparations and the inadequacy of support for residents, particularly in the areas of homelessness and violence prevention. Singleton called for a reevaluation of the city's approach, suggesting that certain offices should be cut entirely due to their failure to deliver effective services. Her remarks resonated with many in attendance, who echoed her sentiments about the need for competent leadership and better resource management.

The atmosphere grew increasingly charged as Lisa Parker, another resident, labeled the council as a "criminal cult," accusing them of mismanaging the city's finances. She pointed to a fiscal crisis, asserting that the council had failed to address significant budget deficits. Parker's bold statements underscored the community's growing frustration with perceived ineptitude and lack of transparency in local government.

As the meeting drew to a close, it was clear that the residents of Newark are yearning for change. Their voices, filled with urgency and determination, reflect a community ready to hold its leaders accountable and demand the representation and services they deserve. The discussions from this special meeting not only spotlighted immediate concerns but also hinted at a broader movement for reform in Newark's governance.