Newark council advances multiple development deals and tax abatements after public criticism

The Newark Municipal Council on Oct. 1 advanced and adopted on first reading a series of development-related ordinances including tax abatements and a city-owned land exchange, prompting extended public comment that criticized affordability levels, long-term abatements and perceived lack of transparency.

Council action and what it covers

Council advanced and adopted on first reading multiple tax-abatement ordinances and approved a land-exchange to settle a dispute with a former property owner. The council president called for an explanation of a land swap after members of the public said the agenda material did not clearly describe intended uses.

Brandy Daniel, legislative coordinator for economic and housing development, told the council the swap involves a Pennsylvania Avenue address and said the purpose was to avoid litigation with a developer who previously owned that property. "The reasoning…