Newport Neighborhood Association Comes to Life

Newport Neighborhood Association Comes to Life

A newly-formed neighborhood association on the city’s southwest side, the Newport Neighborhood Association consists of more than 70 concerned community residents and leaders.

In May 2009, Newport residents and Mahoning Valley Organizing Collaborative (MVOC) staff conducted canvassing efforts in the area, reaching out to individuals concerned about the quality of life in their neighborhood. A large number of residents expressed both concern and interest, key leadership teams were established, and a neighborhood organization was established.

“I live in the Newport neighborhood,” says Pastor Paul Heine of Martin Luther Lutheran Church. “Most of the children in our church come from the streets around our church. The time for complaining is over. The time for action is at hand.”

The Newport Neighborhood Association held its first public meeting in June 2009. In the following months, neighborhood residents have begun work on several issues, including speed reduction on two of the neighborhood’s main roads, providing young residents with access to and programming at the neighborhood park, identifying problem housing, correcting issues regarding on-street parking, and assisting neighbors with property work – improving the aesthetic value of the neighborhood.

Valuing the importance of collaboration, the association has also worked in conjunction with the Idora Neighborhood Association towards the removal of a dilapidated garage, and have also partnered in several cleanup-related activities within the city of Youngstown.

“We are very excited to be moving forward in the Newport area,” states Newport Neighborhood Association President Francine Jefferies. “It’s long overdue.”
For more information or to become involved in the Newport Neighborhood Association,

For more information or to become involved in the Newport Neighborhood Association, please contact Phil Kidd, MVOC community organizer, at 330-743-1196 or phil@mvorganizing.org.

Click Here to Return to Valley Voice Fall 2009