Campaign Mission

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• Authentic Community Connection

Unlike typical politicians, Edden demonstrates genuine engagement with Newark residents. He shows up at neighborhood events, listens to real concerns, and builds trust through consistent presence—not just during election season.

•  Proven Track Record

Edden brings hands-on experience and measurable results, not just promises. His background shows he understands the complexities of Newark's challenges and has practical solutions.

• Community-First Approach

Edden prioritizes the needs of everyday Newark families over special interests. His platform focuses on:

- Direct accountability to constituents.

- Transparent decision-making.

- Real solutions to public safety, jobs, and education.

• Fresh Perspective

While respecting Newark's history, Edden brings new energy and ideas to City Council. He's not part of the old political machine—he's focused on innovation and progress.

•  Accessible Leadership

Edden believes in being present and responsive. He's accessible to residents, willing to have tough conversations, and committed to following through on commitments.

• Grassroots Support

His campaign is built on neighborhood-to-neighborhood organizing, not big money politics. Edden is powered by Newark residents who believe in real change.

The difference is simple: Edden is of Newark, for Newark, and will be accountable to Newark.

Open Government. Responsible Leadership. Results Newark Residents Can Trust.

As a candidate for Newark City Council At-Large, I believe residents deserve a city government that is transparent, accountable, and responsive. Public office is a public trust. Taxpayers have the right to know how decisions are made, how their money is spent, and whether city government is delivering results.

Residents should not have to be financial experts to understand how their tax dollars are being used.

I will advocate for:

• A user-friendly online budget portal that clearly explains city revenues and expenditures. 
• Plain-language summaries of the annual city budget. 
• Quarterly reports showing progress on major projects and spending initiatives. 
• Public presentations that explain proposed budget changes before votes are taken. 

Every dollar should be spent responsibly and with the public interest in mind.

I will work to:

• Review contracts and expenditures carefully before approval. 
• Require regular reporting on major city-funded projects. 
• Monitor whether programs are meeting their intended goals and outcomes. 
• Ask difficult questions when costs exceed expectations or timelines are delayed. 

Government works best when residents are informed and involved.

I support:

• Expanding notice of City Council meetings through multiple communication channels. 
• Holding community meetings in neighborhoods throughout Newark. 
• Providing opportunities for residents to comment on major initiatives before decisions are made. 
• Ensuring meeting materials and agendas are available to the public in advance. 

Residents deserve timely answers and action from their elected officials.

I will advocate for:

• Clear standards for responding to constituent concerns and service requests. 
• Regular public updates on issues raised by residents. 
• Tracking systems that allow residents to follow the status of requests submitted to the city. 
• Council office hours to meet directly with community members. 

Elected officials must lead by example.

I will support:

• Strong adherence to ethics rules and conflict-of-interest standards. 
• Transparency regarding official actions and decision-making. 
• Ongoing ethics training for public officials and employees when appropriate. 
• Policies that reinforce integrity and public confidence in government. 

Promises should be matched by performance.

I believe city government should:

• Establish measurable goals for major initiatives. 
• Publish annual performance updates on city services and programs. 
• Identify areas that need improvement and take corrective action. 
• Focus on outcomes rather than political rhetoric. 

Growth must benefit Newark residents.

I will advocate for:

• Greater transparency in development agreements and incentives. 
• Oversight of affordable and subsidized housing programs to ensure they operate fairly and effectively. 
• Public reporting on community benefits associated with major development projects. 
• Holding developers accountable to the commitments they make to the city and its residents. 

Transparency builds trust. Accountability delivers results.

As your Councilman At-Large, I will work to ensure that Newark residents have a government that listens, communicates openly, spends responsibly, and remains accountable to the people it serves. City Hall should never operate behind closed doors. The people of Newark deserve leadership that values honesty, oversight, and service above politics.

 Building Trust Through Community Policing

Edden believes public safety starts with trust between residents and law enforcement. 

His plan focuses on:

Neighborhood Police Partnerships

Deploy officers who live in and know the communities they serve.

Community Oversight Boards

Give residents a real voice in police accountability and policy.

Regular Community Listening Sessions

Direct dialogue between police leadership and neighborhood residents.

Violence Prevention & Youth Intervention

Addressing root causes is essential:

1. Youth Employment Programs - Create summer jobs and career pathways for young people.
2. Conflict Mediation Services - Fund community-based violence interruption programs.
3. After-School & Recreation Programs - Expand safe spaces and mentorship opportunities.
4. Mental Health & Addiction Support - Connect struggling residents with treatment resources.
5. Targeted Enforcement

• Focus on serious crimes while reducing low-level arrests that strain communities.
• Increase investigations into gun trafficking and organized crime.
• Support community tips through anonymous reporting systems.

 Officer Training & Accountability

- De-escalation and implicit bias training for all officers.

- Swift, transparent discipline for misconduct.

- Body cameras and dashboard footage review protocols.

Economic Opportunity

Edden knows that unemployment fuels crime. His plan includes job creation initiatives, small business support, and skills training—giving residents better choices.

Public safety isn't just about police - it's about creating conditions where Newark families feel secure and have real opportunities.

Fully Funding Our Schools

Edden believes Newark's children deserve world-class education:

• Adequate School Funding** — Fight for equitable state aid and city budget prioritization for schools.
• Teacher Recruitment & Retention** — Competitive salaries to attract and keep quality educators.
• School Infrastructure** — Fix crumbling buildings, upgrade classrooms, and ensure safe learning environments.
• Modern Resources** — Updated textbooks, technology, science labs, and learning materials.

Early Childhood Education

• Universal Pre-K Access - Affordable or free pre-kindergarten for all Newark families.
• Childcare Support- Help working parents access quality, affordable childcare.
• Developmental Screening - Early identification of learning challenges and intervention.

 Academic Excellence

• STEM Programs - Expand science, technology, engineering, and math opportunities.
• Arts & Music Education - Restore programs that develop creativity and critical thinking.
• Literacy Initiatives - Intensive reading support for struggling students
• College Prep Programs - Mentorship and guidance for high school students pursuing higher education.

Career & Technical Education

• Vocational Training - Partner with unions and employers for skilled trades programs.
• Internship Partnerships - Real-world experience and job connections for students.
• Dual Enrollment - Allow high schoolers to earn college credits.

Student Support Services

• Mental Health Counselors - Increase school psychologists and counselors.
• Nutrition Programs - Free breakfast and lunch for all students.
• Special Education Services - Proper resources for students with disabilities.
• Tutoring & After-School Support - Extended learning opportunities for all students.

Community Engagement

• Parent Involvement - Create meaningful ways for families to participate in schools.
• Community Schools Model - Partner schools with health, social, and recreational services.
• Regular Communication - Transparent updates on school performance and improvements.

School Safety

• Trauma-Informed Approaches - Support for students dealing with violence or hardship.
• Restorative Justice Programs - Address discipline issues constructively.
• Safe Spaces - Welcoming environments where all students feel valued.

Edden's commitment: Every Newark child deserves an excellent education that prepares them for college, careers, and success.

 1. Local Business Growth

Edden believes Newark's economy thrives when local businesses thrive. 

2. Small Business Support Fund

Direct grants and low-interest loans for Newark entrepreneurs.

**Reduced Red Tape**  

Streamline permitting and licensing to help businesses launch faster.

**Commercial Corridor Revitalization** 

Target investment in neighborhoods like the Central Ward, South Ward, and North Ward business districts.

**Local Hiring Requirements**

Ensure city contracts and development projects prioritize Newark residents.

Job Training & Workforce Development

**Skills Training Programs** 

Partner with community colleges and vocational schools for careers in construction, healthcare, technology, and trades.

**Apprenticeship Pathways** 

Create paid apprenticeships with union and non-union employers.

**Career Counseling Services** 

Help residents identify opportunities and build professional skills.

**Youth Employment Initiative** 

Summer jobs, internships, and mentorship for young people.

Strategic Development

**Attract Quality Employers**  

Recruit companies that offer living wages and benefits.

**Support Minority-Owned Businesses** 

Dedicated resources and networking for entrepreneurs of color.

**Retail & Mixed-Use Development** 

Bring grocery stores, restaurants, and services to underserved neighborhoods.

**Tech & Innovation Hub** 

Position Newark as an emerging tech center with startup support.

Community Wealth Building

**Worker Cooperatives** 

Support employee-owned businesses that keep profits in Newark.

**Commercial Real Estate Access** 

Help residents and small businesses afford storefront space.

**Supplier Diversity Program** 

Connect Newark businesses with city procurement opportunities.

Infrastructure Investment

**Broadband Expansion** 

Ensure all neighborhoods have high-speed internet access.

**Transportation Improvements** 

Better bus service and walkability to support commerce.

**Public Spaces** 

Clean, safe parks and plazas that attract customers and investment

Edden's vision: A Newark economy where residents have good jobs, businesses thrive, and wealth stays in our community.

Building Opportunities. Developing Leaders. Investing in Newark's Future.

As a candidate for Newark City Council At-Large, I believe Newark's young people should not simply inherit the future of our city—they should help shape it today. Our responsibility is to provide safe spaces, meaningful opportunities, and pathways to success that empower every young person to reach their full potential.

I will advocate for the creation of a citywide Youth Advisory Council composed of students and young adults from every ward. This council would:

• Advise the City Council on policies affecting youth. 
• Hold regular forums to elevate youth voices. 
• Develop recommendations on education, recreation, safety, and employment. 
• Encourage civic engagement and leadership development. 

Every Newark teenager who wants to work should have the opportunity to gain experience and earn a paycheck.

I will work to:

• Expand summer and year-round youth employment programs. 
• Partner with Newark businesses, hospitals, universities, and nonprofits to increase internships and apprenticeships. 
• Provide workforce readiness training, including resume writing, interview preparation, and financial literacy. 
• Create pathways into careers in public safety, healthcare, technology, skilled trades, and entrepreneurship. 

Newark's Summer Youth Employment Program has already demonstrated success by connecting thousands of young people to employment and mentorship opportunities. 

Keeping young people engaged outside of school improves academic outcomes and reduces exposure to violence.

I will support:

• Expanded sports leagues and recreational programming. 
• Arts, music, theater, and cultural initiatives. 
• STEM and technology programs. 
• Extended evening and weekend programming at community centers. 
• Greater awareness of existing programs so families can easily access them.

Organizations across Newark already provide valuable services, and the city should strengthen these partnerships rather than duplicate efforts. 

Young people deserve a seat at the table.

I support:

• Youth leadership academies. 
• Student government partnerships with City Hall. 
• Participatory budgeting opportunities where youth help decide how public funds are invested. 
• Volunteer and community service initiatives that build pride in Newark. 

Newark's Gen Green initiative demonstrates how youth can successfully participate in public decision-making by proposing and voting on community projects.

Youth engagement begins with safety and support.

I will advocate for:

• Trauma-informed programs and mentorship services. 
• Violence prevention initiatives focused on intervention and opportunity. 
• Mental health resources for youth and families. 
• Safe recreation spaces in every neighborhood. 
• Positive relationships between young people and public safety personnel.

Not every young person follows the same path.

I will work with schools, nonprofits, and workforce partners to reconnect young adults who are out of school or unemployed by:

• Expanding reengagement services. 
• Increasing GED and alternative education opportunities. 
• Connecting youth to job training and supportive services. 
• Removing barriers to employment and educational advancement. 

Newark's Opportunity Youth initiatives provide a strong foundation for this work. 

Newark's next generation of business leaders is already here.

I support programs that:

• Teach entrepreneurship and financial literacy. 
• Provide mentorship from local business owners. 
• Offer small seed grants for youth-led projects. 
• Host youth business competitions and innovation showcases.

Our young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are partners in building Newark today.

As your Councilman At-Large, I will fight to ensure that every child and young adult in Newark has access to opportunity, mentorship, safe spaces, and a voice in the decisions that shape our city. By investing in our youth, we invest in safer neighborhoods, stronger families, and a brighter future for all Newark residents. 

Honoring Experience. Supporting Independence. Strengthening Community.

As a candidate for Newark City Council At-Large, I believe that Newark's seniors deserve more than gratitude for their contributions to our city—they deserve respect, opportunity, and access to the services that allow them to age with dignity. We must ensure that older adults remain active, connected, informed, and supported in every stage of life.

Many seniors are unaware of the programs available to them or face barriers in accessing assistance.

I will work to:

• Increase outreach and awareness of existing senior programs and benefits. 
• Simplify the process for accessing city services and resources. 
• Partner with community organizations to provide information sessions throughout Newark's neighborhoods. 
• Ensure that language and technology barriers do not prevent seniors from receiving assistance. 

Social connection is essential to health and well-being.

I support:

• Expanding recreational and wellness programs at senior centers. 
• Offering exercise classes, arts and crafts, dance, and educational workshops. 
• Organizing cultural outings, community events, and intergenerational activities. 
• Creating opportunities for seniors from every ward to build friendships and stay engaged. 

Seniors should be able to move around Newark safely and independently.

I will advocate for:

• Improving awareness of transportation options available to older adults. 
• Evaluating transportation gaps that prevent seniors from attending appointments and community activities. 
• Supporting pedestrian safety improvements near senior housing and community facilities. 
• Ensuring city buildings and public spaces remain accessible to residents with mobility challenges.

Safe and stable housing is fundamental to quality of life.

I will work to:

• Monitor senior housing conditions and advocate for timely maintenance and repairs. 
• Support fair access to affordable housing programs for eligible seniors. 
• Strengthen oversight of housing services to ensure residents receive the support they deserve. 
• Connect seniors with resources that help them remain in their homes whenever possible. 

Healthy seniors contribute to stronger communities.

I support:

• Health screenings and wellness education programs. 
• Partnerships with healthcare providers and community organizations to bring services closer to residents. 
• Nutrition education and access to healthy meal programs. 
• Programs that encourage active lifestyles and preventive care. 

Older adults should feel safe and secure.

I will advocate for:

• Educational workshops on scams, identity theft, and financial exploitation. 
• Collaboration with law enforcement and community organizations to raise awareness about emerging fraud schemes. 
• Clear pathways for reporting elder abuse and obtaining assistance. 
• Community outreach that empowers seniors to protect themselves and their loved ones. 

Newark's seniors possess a lifetime of knowledge and experience that should continue to shape our city.

I support:

• Creating opportunities for seniors to serve on advisory boards and community committees. 
• Encouraging volunteer programs in schools, libraries, and neighborhood organizations. 
• Establishing mentorship initiatives that connect seniors with Newark's youth. 
• Ensuring that older adults have a meaningful voice in decisions affecting their communities. 

A city is judged by how it treats those who helped build it.

As your Councilman At-Large, I will work to ensure that Newark's seniors remain active, respected, and supported. I will advocate for accessible services, stronger community connections, safe housing, and opportunities for meaningful engagement. Newark's older adults have spent their lives investing in our city. They deserve a government that invests in them.

By honoring our seniors, we strengthen families, preserve community wisdom, and build a Newark that values every generation.