“In his 20 years in office as Mayor, Sharpe James was many things: a warrior for our city, a unifier for its people, a powerful force to launch development like New Jersey Performing Arts Center and the Prudential Center, and a strong advocate for Newark and its people.

“He was also an outstanding educator and an inspiration to generations of Newark residents. Our relationship included competition, conflict, and collaboration, and through it all, helped define me, my values, and my aspirations for this city. The Newark we live in is, in many ways, a city he created.

“I join with the entire City in sending prayers and condolences to the family of Sharpe James upon his passing, along with our deepest thanks for his lifetime of service to our people.”

NEWARK -

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