Title
Dept/ Agency: Offices of Municipal Council/City Clerk
Action: ( ) Ratifying (X) Authorizing ( ) Amending
Type of Service: Ceremonial Street Designation
Honoree: Earl Best
Date(s): October 16, 2026
Official Street Name(s): Intersection of Brunswick Street and Astor Street
Ceremonial Intersection Name: Earl “Street Doctor” Best Way
Sponsor: Council Member, Central Ward, Patrick O. Council
Additional Information:
Friday, October 16, 2026; Time: 5:00P.M.
body
WHEREAS, Earl “Street Doctor” Best was born on December 26, 1947, and dedicated his life to serving the people of Newark with compassion, courage, and unwavering commitment. He passed away on December 27, 2021, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire the City of Newark; and
WHEREAS, known throughout the community simply as “Street Doctor,” Earl Best became one of Newark’s most respected grassroots leaders. Long before community outreach became a funded initiative, he was in the streets every day feeding the hungry, clothing those in need, comforting grieving families, mentoring young people, and working tirelessly to reduce violence; and
WHEREAS, the “Street Doctor” attended thousands of funerals, offering comfort and solidarity to families during their most difficult moments. He believed that every life mattered and that healing a community required showing up-not only during times of celebration, but especially during times of tragedy; and
WHEREAS, with little more than his determination and the support of volunteers, he fed and clothed tens of thousands of Newark residents. Whether serving meals from the trunk of his car, providing coats during the winter, or helping families facing hardship, Street Doctor never waited for permission or recognition. His mission was simple: serve the people; and
WHEREAS, he was known for saying, “Little hinges swing big doors. This cake will stop a killing today,” reflecting his belief that even the smallest act of kindness could interrupt violence, restore hope, and save lives. His work proved that compassion could be one of the most powerful tools for community transformation; and
WHEREAS, the “Street Doctor” earned the trust and respect of residents from every neighborhood because he consistently showed up where others would not. He built relationships across generations, encouraged young people to choose positive paths, and demonstrated through his actions that service to others is the highest form of leadership.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE MUNICIPAL COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEWARK, NEW JERSEY, THAT:
1. The Municipal Council does hereby authorize the honorary and ceremonial renaming of the intersection of Brunswick Street and Astor Street “Earl “Street Doctor” Best Way”.
2. The official name of said streets shall remain Brunswick Street and Astor Street.
STATEMENT
This Resolution authorizes the naming of the intersection of Brunswick Street and Astor Street for honorary and ceremonial purposes.