Sharpe James

Sharpe James is a former Democratic Mayor of Newark, New Jersey, who served from 1986 to 2006. During his tenure, James worked closely with New Jersey Transit, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and Newark Liberty International Airport to develop the city's infrastructure. James also collaborated with neighboring cities, including Jersey City, New Jersey, Elizabeth, New Jersey, and New York City, to promote regional growth and development. His administration also worked with organizations such as the National League of Cities, United States Conference of Mayors, and the New Jersey State League of Municipalities.

● Early Life and Education

Sharpe James was born in Jacksonville, Florida, and later moved to Newark, New Jersey, where he attended Newark Central High School and New Jersey Institute of Technology. He earned a degree in Sociology from Montclair State University and later received a Master's degree in Education from Trenton State College. James began his career as a Teacher in the Newark Public Schools system, working at Central High School and Barringer High School. He was also involved with the Newark Teachers Union and the American Federation of Teachers.

● Political Career

James's entry into politics began with his election to the Newark Municipal Council in 1970, where he served alongside Kenneth Gibson and Ras Baraka. He later became a member of the Essex County Board of Chosen Freeholders, working with Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. and Donald Payne. James's experience in local politics led to his involvement with the New Jersey Democratic State Committee and the Democratic National Committee. He also worked with prominent politicians, including Bill Clinton, Al Gore, and Jon Corzine.

● Mayor of Newark

As Mayor of Newark, New Jersey, James focused on revitalizing the city's economy, working with organizations such as the Newark Alliance, Newark Downtown District, and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. He also collaborated with neighboring cities, including Hoboken, New Jersey, Jersey City, New Jersey, and Bayonne, New Jersey, to promote regional growth and development. James's administration worked to improve the city's infrastructure, including the development of the Newark Broad Street Station and the Newark Penn Station. He also worked with New Jersey Transit, Amtrak, and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to improve transportation in the city.

● Corruption Charges and Conviction

In 2006, James was indicted on FBI charges of Corruption and conspiracy related to the sale of city-owned land to his girlfriend, Tamika Riley. The investigation involved the United States Attorney for the District of New Jersey and the Internal Revenue Service. James was found guilty in 2008 and sentenced to 27 months in Federal prison. The case was prosecuted by Chris Christie, who later became the Governor of New Jersey. James's conviction led to a change in leadership in Newark, New Jersey, with Cory Booker becoming the new Mayor of Newark, New Jersey.

● Personal Life

Sharpe James is a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity and has been involved with various community organizations, including the NAACP, the Urban League, and the Newark YMCA. He has also worked with local institutions, such as the Newark Museum, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, and the Prudential Center. James has received awards from organizations such as the National Association of Black Mayors and the United States Conference of Mayors. He has also been recognized by Rutgers University, New Jersey Institute of Technology, and Essex County College for his contributions to the community. Category:Mayors of Newark, New Jersey