A festive atmosphere filled the meeting room Monday night as the Hopewell Township Committee convened for its annual reorganization meeting, marking the start of the township’s governing year and welcoming newly sworn-in officials alongside their families and community members.
The evening opened with a ceremonial welcome from Stanley Saperstein, Hopewell Township’s Town Crier, who appeared in full historical attire and rang in the new year while sharing the tradition’s roots in pre-Revolutionary America.
The ceremony drew a wide range of elected officials and dignitaries, including State Sen. Shirley Turner, Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, Assemblyman Anthony Verrelli, Mercer County Executive Dan Benson, and members of the Mercer County Board of Commissioners.
Swearing-In and Leadership Selection
Incumbents Courtney Peters-Manning and David Chait, who were re-elected to the Township Committee in November, were sworn in during the meeting. Following the oath of office, the committee voted to appoint David Chait as mayor and Uma Purandare as deputy mayor for 2026.
In his first remarks as mayor, Chait thanked his family, fellow committee members, township staff, and leadership, as well as what he described as “our 99 incredible volunteers on commissions and committees who quietly and selflessly give their time.”
Chait reflected on the significance of 2026, noting Hopewell Township’s historic role in the nation’s founding. Invoking George Washington’s perseverance, he said that spirit—“bold by design and rooted in shared purpose”—continues to define the community today.
Priorities for the Year Ahead
Looking ahead, Chait outlined goals for the coming year, including honoring the nation’s 250th anniversary with events and initiatives throughout 2026. He said the township will work with regional partners to bring the community together while leveraging the anniversary to support local businesses.
Chait also emphasized fiscal responsibility, pledging to deliver “a responsible, realistic budget,” while continuing investments in township services. He highlighted ongoing partnerships with the Hopewell Valley Regional School District, including building on the township’s $16.1 million commitment to the Bear Tavern Elementary School expansion.
Additional priorities cited included the new Senior and Community Center, continued investments in police, public works, and other township services, and the strategic use of PILOT revenues to provide long-term benefits for residents.
Deputy Mayor and Appointments
In accepting the role of deputy mayor, Uma Purandare expressed her commitment to helping make Hopewell Township a vibrant and welcoming community for all residents.
Following the seating of the committee, the township announced and swore in appointments to boards, commissions, and committees for the year ahead. Staff members with expiring terms were formally reappointed as part of the reorganization process.
