Shatera Smith Announces Candidacy for Plainfield City Council-At-Large Seat

Plainfield, NJ, April 13, 2026: Shatera Smith, a proud Plainfield native, Hampton University honors graduate, and dedicated civic leader, has officially announced her candidacy for Plainfield's Second and Third Ward At-Large Council seat, bringing a proven record of service, leadership, and community impact to the race.

A graduate of Plainfield Public Schools and a Hampton University honors alumna, Smith has dedicated more than two decades to advancing youth, wellness, and education through impactful partnerships across the Plainfield community.

“Plainfield is home—it’s where I was raised, where I learned the value of community, and where I’ve committed my life’s work,” said Smith. “I’m running for City Council because I believe in the power of service and in building a city where every resident has the opportunity to thrive.”

As founder of Exquisite Consulting Group, a human resources consulting firm established in 2014, Smith has worked to support community-based initiatives while partnering with local organizations to expand access to essential resources for students and families.

A cornerstone of Smith’s community work is her leadership with Project Hygiene, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing personal care items to students in need. Serving as Community Outreach Manager, Smith has helped establish hygiene closets at Frank J. Hubbard Middle School, Maxson Middle School, and Frederic W. Cook Elementary School.

In conjunction with Plainfield Action Services and the Second Street Youth Center, she has also led an Annual Toy Drive for the past five years, providing more than 800 toys to families throughout the city.

“Service isn’t a moment for me—it’s a mindset,” Smith added. “Whether it’s through a toy drive, a hygiene initiative, or public service, I’ve always believed that when we invest in people, we strengthen our entire community.”

Professionally, Smith currently serves as the Director of Human Resources for the Borough of Roselle, NJ, where she oversees workforce development, labor relations, and employee engagement initiatives. She formerly worked for the City of East Orange, NJ in the Office of the Mayor and the Department of Human Resources. Her experience in municipal government has equipped her with the skills to navigate complex systems, build consensus, and deliver results.

Her civic leadership includes service on the Plainfield Planning Board, the Executive Board of the Plainfield Democratic Party, and as Union County Committee Member for Plainfield Ward 2, District 3. She is also a Trustee of the Drake House Museum and Treasurer of Girl Scouts Unit 57.

“Shatera Smith is a breath of fresh air and has ignited renewed voter interest in Plainfield," said Plainfield Councilwoman Dr. Darcella Sessomes. "She’s a diplomatic critical thinker who is an authentically humble public servant with government experience, a commitment to fiscal transparency, and genuine constituent engagement."

As a councilmember, Smith pledges to focus on five key priorities:

• Expanding economic opportunity by empowering small businesses and entrepreneurs with the tools, resources, and support needed to grow and thrive.

• Advancing safe, healthy communities through strong civic partnerships and proactive youth violence prevention initiatives.

• Ensuring transparent, accountable government through responsible fiscal stewardship and consistent, open communication with residents.

• Strengthening neighborhoods by prioritizing clean, safe streets and forward-thinking, sustainable urban planning.

• Investing in youth development through mentorship, workforce training, and expanded opportunities that prepare the next generation for success.

“As a city, we have so much potential,” said Smith. “I’m ready to work alongside residents, listen to their concerns, and deliver solutions that move Plainfield forward—together.”

For more information about the campaign or to support Shatera Smith for City Council, please visit www.shateraforcouncil.com <http://www.shateraforcouncil.com> , Facebook and Instagram@shateraforcouncil, or email ssmithforcouncil@gmail.com <mailto:ssmithforcouncil@gmail.com> .