When I was sworn into office on July 1, 2006, I understood that I had promised to represent the citizens of the great city of Newark after a truly historic campaign and election. I also understood that with the almost unattainable expectations of change from the electorate, my challenge would be great, my workload would be unending, and the need to make immediate change would be the most important priority.

I also knew that I had to create opportunities for all citizens to take an active role in the decision-making process of the West Ward and in deciding our destiny as a ward together. We created the West Ward Collective, the new governing body of the ward. I invite all West Ward citizens of goodwill to join us as we work to make our community better and as I declare the old paradigm of standing on the sidelines and complaining or pointing fingers at what elected officials are not doing in the community officially dead and buried. As the old saying goes, we are either part of the solution or part of the problem. The West Ward Collective is the new solution.

This website will also offer news about my community initiatives and sponsored legislation, means for registering constituent complaints, information about my Little City Hall/Community Resource Center in the neighborhoods, community announcements, and much more. Your comments are appreciated.

Remember, as we stated in our campaign in 2006, together, there is nothing we cannot accomplish. I need you.

Sincerely,



Hon. Ronald C. Rice
West Ward Councilman
City of Newark