Editor’s Note: This article represents the personal opinion of a community contributor and does not necessarily reflect the views of RLS Media

By: Trenton ‘Jabu’ Jones

Mayor Sharpe James was the architect of Newark’s renaissance. He brought Home Depot, NJPAC, the Prudential Center, and thousands of affordable housing units to our city.

He raised over $20 million for the beautification of the Newark Museum and transformed our skyline with vision and vigor.

He was a councilman, mayor, senator, author, teacher and above all, a servant of the people.

He gave me my start in politics, placing me under the guidance of his son, Councilman John Sharpe James. I then went on to work for councilman Eddie Osborne That act of mentorship shaped my journey and deepened my commitment to Newark.

I

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