A proposed sale of the Borough’s public water system will go before voters this fall.
At its July 10 meeting, the Hopewell Borough Council unanimously adopted an ordinance to place a binding referendum on the November general election ballot, asking residents whether the Borough should sell its water utility to New Jersey American Water for $6.4 million.
If approved, the sale would include a commitment by NJAW to invest at least $7 million in capital improvements over five years. Council members said the proceeds would be used to pay off all outstanding water system debt and reduce general municipal debt, with anticipated reductions in water costs for most customers.
If the system is not sold, officials said water rates would need to rise to cover capital improvements.
One resident, June Schwank, voiced concern about a lack of independent expert input on the sale.
“A lot of municipalities who maintain their own water systems rely on experts in the community,” she said.
Mayor Ryan Kennedy responded by inviting public engagement on the issue.
“Doug and I, David and I will literally meet with anyone,” he said, referencing Borough Administrator Doug Walker and Council President David Mackie.
An information session is scheduled for July 31, where representatives from NJAW and the Borough water committee will present on future capital needs, financial impacts, and rate implications.
New Grease Trap Ordinance Adopted
In other business, the council adopted an ordinance requiring restaurants to install and maintain grease traps to protect the Borough’s sewer system. Officials said the change follows instances of unmaintained traps causing system damage.
Under the new rules, the Borough will pay for initial inspections, but establishments that fail will be responsible for covering follow-up inspection costs.
Cooling Center Proposal and Public Comments
During public comment, resident Charles Schuyler Morehouse suggested using the firehouse—equipped with an emergency generator and air conditioning—as a cooling center for storms and heat emergencies. The council discussed the idea and referenced the Mercer County Library as a current designated cooling site.
Upcoming Events and Acknowledgments
Hopewell Borough will host a flu vaccine clinic on November 4 at Borough Hall, with homebound vaccinations also available. Residents were also encouraged to attend the Hopewell Township Police Department’s National Night Out on August 5 at Stony Brook Elementary School.
The meeting also included residents and council members thanking Doug Walker for his service as Borough Administrator, marking his final meeting in that role.
