Newark Mayor Ras Baraka is calling on the federal government for assistance as it works to stop the spread of COVID-19 and limit its impact on the city’s budget.
Just a few short weeks ago the city put in several of its own stimulus packages to help residents but now Baraka says those, along with the additional burden on health, public safety and sanitation services have put a significant dent in the city coffers. Baraka says if they don't get help, they may be forced to furlough city employees and face possible buyouts.
“We Know and we understand that we’re going to continue to spend what we have to take care of the residents of this city, but we absoluety positively need some assistance, or, we will be in a very very very difficult situation very shortly.”
Baraka says he is asking the federal delegation, including Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, to push legislation to get replacement funding for the city, adding that federal relief packages offer billions to large corporations and businesses but do little to help cities like Newark. The estimated COVID_19 related cost forthe city will be upwards of 32 million dollars.