In the story of East Orange, Mayor Ted R. Green stands as a living testament to the power of servant leadership, community-rooted purpose, and relentless determination. Now in his second term as the 14th Mayor of the City of East Orange, Mayor Green’s journey from local son to transformational city leader is one defined by love for community, hope, and hard work.

Affectionately known as “The People’s Mayor,” Mayor Green’s impact is grounded in his upbringing and identity as the proud son of Theodore and Lula Green, both of whom instilled in him a deep passion for giving back. As a proud graduate of East Orange High School, Green has dedicated more than 35 years of committed service to the people of East Orange. His mayoral election win is not only historic as he became the city’s first Muslim mayor, but it is deeply personal. In 2018, he was elected with an overwhelming 96% of the vote. Four years later, he ran unopposed — a reflection of the support, trust and admiration he has cultivated citywide.

 

Mayor Green’s leadership is marked by visible transformation: Over $2 billion in redevelopment projects, a steady rise in the city’s credit rating to A+, significant crime reduction, and more than $200 million in infrastructure improvements that touch every ward of the city. From restoring beloved parks and firehouses to renovating the East Orange Public Library and making nearly $4 million of enhancements to Main Street, the Green Administration has sparked a renaissance rooted in equity, safety, and civic pride.

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In an effort to increase accessibility and accountability, Mayor Green created the “Mayor on the Block” initiative, a boots-on-the-ground initiative where he walks the streets of every ward with key city staff, listening to residents, solving problems in real-time, and ensuring no corner of the city is left behind. His commitment to East Orange's quality of life dramatically reduced vacant and abandoned properties, putting more than 800 homes back on the tax rolls in his first six years in office. 

Even amid the greatest public health crisis of our time, Mayor Green’s leadership never faltered. Under his guidance, East Orange became the first city in the nation to host a federally-run statewide COVID-19 testing site, while city operations successfully continued without layoffs or service interruptions. His steady hand during the pandemic saved lives and safeguarded futures.
 

A champion for youth, jobs, and opportunity, Mayor Green has increased youth
employment by 54%, placed 80% of job seekers through the city’s employment office, advanced legislation that protects homeowners, and expanded training for East Orange residents.

 

From supporting critical state and federal legislation to having his legacy memorialized with the naming of a senior public housing complex in his honor, Mayor Green has transformed East Orange into a model of community-focused governance. His efforts have been recognized through countless awards, including President Obama’s My Brother’s Keeper Community Service Award, Essex County’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Leadership Award, Outstanding Public Official Award from Omega Psi Phi, Fraternity, Inc., and New
Jersey Governors State Public Service Recognition Award.

Mayor Green is a proud alumnus of Cheyney University and Lincoln University, a certified housing counselor, and a devoted family man. He is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and finds his greatest joy in his role as husband, father, and grandfather. His business, Green’s School of Martial Arts, is a staple in the Third Ward community, and remains a beacon of empowerment and discipline for generations of families. 

Ted R. Green is not just leading East Orange, he is securing its future. Through integrity, compassion, and visionary leadership, he continues to build a legacy that proves when people come first, progress will follow.