The meeting also addressed housing issues, including the sale of a property for an affordable housing project, discrepancies in the square footage selling price, and the removal of residential properties from Special Improvement Districts (SIDs) and Business Improvement Districts (BIDs). A particularly contentious topic was the proposed 30-year tax abatement for Wesley Towers, a senior housing complex, with council members debating the retroactive nature of the abatement and the implications for the city’s revenue.

Further, the council deliberated on the enforcement of ordinances, specifically the registration of container companies, and the establishment of a task force to ensure compliance. Amendments to an existing ordinance were discussed, including fee structure changes and exemptions, as well as the need for re-advertisement and a second reading. The council also tackled various contracts and agreements related to community violence prevention programs, playgrounds, affordable housing, and the annual budget for the Newark Downtown District Management Corporation.

An emotionally charged portion of the meeting involved public comments from residents of the Riviera Hotel, who detailed inadequate living conditions, disrespectful treatment, and a lack of services. The council responded to these testimonies by calling for an emergency complete inspection by code enforcement and the Department of Health. The property manager of the Riviera Hotel and the CEO of Catholic Charities provided overviews of the corrective plans and services offered, respectively. However, council members expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs and demanded tangible improvements.

The council also discussed various added starters, including a memorandum of agreement to provide the New Jersey Department of Military and Veteran Services with office space to service veterans, and the extension of an emergency contract for temporary housing services. The Economic Development department presented several added starters, seeking approval for projects competing for tax credits to create affordable housing. Additionally, there was debate over the acceptance of a grant by ShopRite to install food lockers in the Shani Baraka Center and whether the funds would benefit multiple locations.

Lastly, the council heard a presentation on the re-engagement initiative for disengaged youth, focusing on educational and vocational training programs. Council members expressed their support for the initiative and the need for effective resource management to ensure the success of the council’s actions.