The Dec. 12 Newark City Council meeting marked a historic moment as a combined 51 years of leadership came to an end. Long-serving council members Ana Apodaca, Sucy Collazo and Luis Freitas stepped down, paving the way for a new era of governance under newcomers Terrence Grindall, Julie Del Catancio and Eve Marie Little.
“Thank you for your record-setting commitment to our community,” said city manager David Benoun to the three outgoing officials.
Newark, a city steeped in tradition, is entering uncharted territory with its first major council shake-up in over 50 years. The new council will include re-elected Mayor Michael Hannon; fresh faces Grindall, Catancio, and Little as well as Matthew Jorgens who was elected to the council in 2022.
During the swearing-in ceremony, Mayor Hannon took a heartfelt moment to pay tribute to the departing council members and their years of dedicated service. Ana Apodaca, a lifelong Newark resident and former council member, had returned from retirement to serve on the Newark City Council in July 2024.
Appointed to fill a vacancy, Apodaca brought extensive experience, having previously served from 2005 to 2014. During her interim term, the council adopted initiatives such as the Broadband Master Plan, Tri-City Hazard Mitigation Plan, Facilities Master Plan, and Citywide Parks Master Plan. Apodaca also championed local causes like securing field space for the Newark Girls Softball League and supporting the Newark Graffiti Abatement Team and Hispanic Community Affairs Council.
“She’s a treasure to our community,” the mayor said.
Sucy Collazo has played a pivotal role in Newark’s progress during her tenure on the City Council. First elected on Nov. 8, 2011, and re-elected in 2016 and 2020, she also served as Vice Mayor in 2015, 2019 and 2023.
Collazo was instrumental in advancing affordable housing, public safety and community enhancements like the city’s skate park, first dog park, new hotels and civic center. She represented Newark on various commissions, including the Alameda County Fire Advisory, Library and Transportation Commissions, leaving a legacy of commitment to civic growth and inclusivity. Hannon reflected on years of working beside her, emphasizing her dedication to the community.
“When I think of you, I think of the heart of Newark,” Mayor Hannon said.
Mayor Hannon shared his find memory of council member Luis Freitas, encouraging him to join the city council in 2014. Freitas has been a cornerstone of Newark’s leadership, serving 29 years on the city council. First elected in 1995, he was re-elected for six consecutive terms and held the position of vice mayor for eight non-consecutive years starting in 1998. Freitas played a vital role in key developments, including new affordable housing, hotels, and the David W. Smith City Hall. He represented Newark on various regional boards, including the Alameda County Transportation Commission and Waste Management Authority.
“He’s a gentleman and an honorable person in our community,” Mayor Hannon said.
The three newly elected council members expressed heartfelt gratitude to residents for their support, pledging to work collaboratively to build a stronger Newark. Councilmember Terrence Grindall reflected on his campaign journey, sharing how conversations with residents gave him valuable insight into the changes they hope to see.
“Directly engaging with residents and sharing your concerns reaffirmed my commitment to this community,” Grindall said.
Grindall also mentioned he will be hosting “Coffee with a Council Member” meetings each month, where residents can meet him at a local coffee shop to discuss any concerns. Updates for future dates and locations will be posted to his website, terrancefornewark.org.
