Newark. Live, Work, Shop and Play.
A common thread was sewn into the fabric of the Newark tapestry when our City came into existence in 1955. It is still woven throughout our being today…it is the theme of self-determination.
Our “founding fathers” had a simple goal…to build a “balanced” city where people could live, work, shop, and play. Fifty years later, that goal still is at the foundation of every decision that we make in the City of Newark. George Silliman, our first Mayor, constantly reminded us that this is why Newark chose to “go it alone,” and not become a part of the City of Fremont. (And, yes, I still want to be like George when I grow up!)
I believe that the essence of Newark can be summed up by the Newark Days motto: “People, Pride, and Progress.” This captures the spirit of Newark’s people, the pride that they have in their community, and the progress we have made by truly working together.
Every Mayor in the United States would tell you that his or her City is special, and I’m no exception. But I would take it a step further, and proclaim that Newark is “one of a kind.” The soul of Newark revolves around our ability to be a very progressive city while maintaining a “small town atmosphere.” We are a city devoid of political factions. We are a city whose government operates on a foundation of trust between the members of the City Council, the City Staff, and the citizens of the community. Yes, trust! Imagine that…a very exceptional concept in government today. (You can really get some first-rate things accomplished when you function as a team and trust each other to do what’s right!)
Newark is a city that has dared to dream, and to dream big dreams. Many of our dreams have come true because of long-range vision, solid planning, and conservative fiscal policies. By way of example, our “crown jewel” is the Silliman Activity Center. “Newark’s Place to Play” is the finest recreation facility west of Denver, Colorado! But it is a development that was literally decades in the making.
Newark is rampant with volunteerism! From feeding and sheltering the poor, to community festivals and summer programs, to sports activities and graffiti abatement, to emergency volunteers and cultural activities, people give of themselves to make our City a better place to live. The majority of city governments have to write checks to provide these services…in Newark, they are provided by our people! We owe our volunteers a tremendous debt of gratitude. They are called volunteers because they are not compensated for their services. Our volunteers receive no compensation because their contributions are priceless!
“Outsiders” have grappled with defining the Newark phenomenon. I call it “reveling in our “Newarkness.” It is not a “spectator sport”…you have to be a participant to fully appreciate it! We are seeing many young people who grew up here either staying or returning to raise their families in this extraordinary environment. That to me is the ultimate affirmation of our unique city.
Newark has evolved over fifty+ years into a very dynamic, diverse, safe, prosperous, self-sufficient, and welcoming community. We have accomplished so much, but there is more to be done. The best is yet to be! YOWZA!
Newark truly is a great place to Live, Work, Shop and Play! But most of all, it's a great place to Stay!
With kind regards,
Mayor Dave Smith