On Saturday, May 3, 2025, the City of Trenton celebrated a historic moment with the renaming of the Trenton City Hall Annex to the Douglas H. Palmer Municipal Complex, in honor of former Mayor Douglas H. Palmer, the city’s first African American mayor. The event was attended by hundreds of residents, city leaders, state officials, and members of Mayor Palmer’s family, who gathered to witness the unveiling of the newly named annex.
The Annex is now officially known as the Douglas H. Palmer Municipal Complex, in recognition of Mayor Palmer’s legacy of service, progress, and inclusivity. In addition to the renaming of the annex, a commemorative plaque was installed inside the City Hall atrium, honoring Mayor Palmer’s historic contributions and dedication to public service.
“Mayor Palmer is a force of unity and progress in Trenton. He didn’t just break barriers— he gave hope,” said Mayor W. Reed Gusciora. “Renaming City Hall’s Annex in his honor is a recognition of his values and the future he helped shape for all of us.”
In 1990, Palmer was elected the first African American mayor in the City of Trenton. He served for 20 consecutive years, leading key initiatives such as modernizing the Trenton Police Department, focusing on community-oriented policing. He also prioritized urban redevelopment and played a role in the transformation of the Trenton Waterfront Stadium, home to the Trenton Thunder baseball team.
In his remarks during the ceremony, Mayor Palmer reflected on the significance of the honor: “I share this moment with everyone who believed change was possible.”
Council President Yazminelly Gonzalez: “Renaming City Hall in honor of former Mayor Douglas H. Palmer is not just a symbol but a permanent reminder of his contributions to the city. It is my hope that memorializing this incredible moment of history will inspire others to dream big, work hard, and pave their own way in whatever lane that may be. Our City has a rich history, and Mayor Palmer is our history. He is the FIRST African American Mayor in the city of Trenton, and for that, I thank him for paving the way for other leaders, including myself.”
Council Vice President Jasi Edwards: “On Saturday, we made history honoring a legacy that helped shape Trenton. Mayor Palmer led with resilience, tenacity, and a deep belief in unity. He didn’t just govern— he lifted us all.”
At-Large Councilwoman Crystal Feliciano: “The renaming of the City Hall Annex in honor of former Mayor Palmer was a wonderful and historic event to witness as well as be a part of. As a black woman, I was proud to extend such an honor to a deserving man who has served the city for many years both while in and out of office; I am especially glad that his father affectionately called “Pop,” was present to witness his son honored in this way, it was a phenomenal day for us all.”
West Ward Councilwoman Teska Frisby: “The renaming of City Hall’s Annex to the Douglas H. Palmer Municipal Complex is a beautiful example of the strength of our city. It brought generations together and a strong sense of pride. Having our sitting Mayor, W. Reed Gusciora, stand in agreement with a unified City Council on this historic project is a testament to how we can accomplish more when we work together. In the end. Trenton wins, and Saturday was a perfect example of that.”
East Ward Councilman Joseph Harrison: “Mayor Palmer’s leadership opened the doors for many. He laid the groundwork for many opportunities that we have today. The renaming of City Hall’s Annex in his honor is a significant moment for our community.”
The Douglas H. Palmer Annex now stands in tribute to his leadership and legacy. The City of Trenton encourages visitors to stop by and view the plaque in the atrium and the newly renamed Trenton City Hall Annex.