Newark Creates ‘Affordable Housing Czar’ Post To Protect Renters

NEWARK, NJ — Who will be responsible for safeguarding Newark residents in need of affordable housing? The city’s new affordable housing manager, municipal officials say.

On Monday, Newark officials announced the creation of what they dubbed an “affordable housing czar” position. The post will help to ensure that Newark residents have access to the city’s growing number of affordable apartments and homes. The czar will also be responsible for making sure that developers comply with the city’s new and existing affordable housing laws.

• See related article: Newark Council Passes Affordable Housing Law

“The availability of affordable housing in Newark is growing fueled by new laws mandating that future development include housing that residents can afford,” Mayor Ras Baraka said. “This is an important element of our strategy to ensure that all residents have the opportunity to benefit from the city’s surge of development and increasing prosperity.”

To apply for the position, send a resume and cover letter to Yolanda Rosario, Department of Economic and Housing Development, City Hall, 920 Broad Street, Newark, New Jersey, or by e-mail to yolanda@ci.newark.nj.us.

• See related article: Newark's 'Neglected' Brick Towers To Be Reborn With Affordable Housing

According to city officials, the senior-level executive position will have duties that include:

• Making Newark residents aware of the range of affordable housing opportunities.
• Creating, maintaining and publicizing a central directory/office/website where residents can apply for affordable housing units or be directed to where to apply.
• Ensuring that Newark residents receive the preferences in rental decisions to which they are entitled
• Monitor the compliance by developers of the City’s affordable housing mandates.
• Ensuring compliance with all City affordable housing mandates and covenants.
• Overseeing the development and implementation of a 5-year Affordable Housing Compliance and Management Plan.
• Ensuring resident and community involvement in policy development.

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File Photo: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development