Pennington Borough Council’s April 6 meeting opened with comments from Councilman John Valenza addressing Hopewell Township’s decision to pursue a study that could lead to changes in its form of government, setting the tone for a discussion that touched on regional governance, borough operations, and the 2026 budget.
Mayor James Davy invited Valenza to share his position.
“I want to make it absolutely clear that the statement reflects my own thoughts and position as an individual elected official. It should not be interpreted as representing the views of any other Council member or the governing body as a whole,” said Valenza, noting that his comments were in response to recent news coverage.
Editor’s Note: Valenza referenced a recent NJ.com article that discussed potential governance changes, including the possibility of consolidation. MercerMe’s coverage of the issue has focused on Hopewell Township’s review of its form of government and has not included discussion of consolidation involving Hopewell Borough or Pennington Borough.
“The governance study launched by Hopewell Township raises serious questions about the future of local government in our region,” he said.
Valenza acknowledged that the Township Committee has every right to examine its own structure. However, he added that “the views in that study, especially the framing of our evolution and the suggestion of consolidation, do not reflect the philosophy shared by all residents of the Hopewell Valley, myself included.”
“It is also worth noting that these statements were made by individuals who have a limited history in this community, especially compared to the long-standing residents who have lived, served, and invested here for decades,” he said. “Township residents should understand that rapid development in the southern tier threatens to dilute your influence on local governance. An expanded committee serving longer terms drawn from a shifting population base may not represent the communities that have defined this valley for generations.”
Valenza said he supports expanding affordable housing and broadening the Valley’s socioeconomic diversity, but opposes changes in government structure that could alter the area’s character or weaken the voice of long-standing residents.
“I encourage all Township residents to make your position on key issues known by voting,” he said. “Pennington Borough provides concentrated, responsive services across one square mile to a community that values that model.”
He argued that consolidation would stretch those services across 54 to 56 square miles with fundamentally different needs.
“Bigger is not better in local government,” said Valenza. “What matters is proximity, accountability, and responsiveness — and that’s exactly what our current structure delivers. Consolidation is completely out of the question.”
Proclamations recognize two longtime employees
Davy announced the retirement of two longtime employees: Borough Clerk and Assistant Financial Officer Betty Sterling and Chief Financial Officer Sandra Webb.
In a proclamation honoring Sterling, Davy noted her more than 25 years of service to Pennington Borough in multiple roles, including registered municipal clerk, certified municipal registrar, and certified municipal finance officer.
He recognized Sterling for “not only her professional excellence, but her abiding respect for the public trust.”
Davy also cited an independent management study that described Sterling as a full-time employee who “wore more hats than any job description could ever fully capture,” highlighting her institutional knowledge and commitment to the Borough’s operations.
He noted that throughout her tenure, Sterling consistently delivered financial operations free of adverse audit findings, earning the confidence of governing bodies and independent auditors alike.
Speaking on behalf of the Council and community, Davy proclaimed May 1, 2026 as Betty Sterling Day.
Sterling, visibly moved, thanked colleagues and residents.
“It’s hard to put 25 years into a brief thank you, but here we go,” she said. “The Pennington community has treated me like one of their own over the years, and I carry with me some great friendships.”
She acknowledged Borough Attorney Walter Bliss for his guidance, Chief Financial Officer Sandy Webb for her partnership in maintaining clean audits, and members of the Police and Public Works departments.
“It takes a village, and I just want to say thank you,” she said.
In a proclamation honoring Webb, Davy recognized her 26 years of service as the Borough’s Chief Financial Officer.
“Sandy has served the Borough with uncommon professionalism, steadfast integrity, and quiet distinction,” he said.
Davy highlighted Webb’s role in guiding the Borough’s finances through changing economic conditions and state requirements, as well as her participation in developing the annual budget.
“The hallmark achievement of Sandy’s tenure may be found in the consistent, unbroken record of clean audits that the Borough has enjoyed under her stewardship,” he said.
Davy proclaimed May 2, 2026 as Sandy Webb Day.
“Thank you, Jim,” Webb said. “It’s hard to believe it’s 26 years, but this has been one of the best jobs. The staff, the council, and the mayor have been great. Thank you.”
Council adopts 2026 budget
Council adopted the 2026 budget without public comment. The budget, available on the Borough website, had been discussed at multiple meetings and introduced at a public session on March 9.
Prior to adoption, Borough auditor Rob Provost praised Pennington for earning an unmodified audit opinion — “the best opinion a governmental entity can get,” he said — noting that both the current fund and water fund are in strong condition.
Provost also recognized the Borough for building reserves for water meter and line replacements.
Council members discussed several cost pressures, including fuel prices, infrastructure needs, and technology expenses.
Fuel prices: Councilwoman Kit Chandler expressed concern about rising fuel costs, noting that recent increases were not reflected in the budget developed earlier this year.
“This is an uncontrollable cost,” Chandler said, adding that the budget leaves little room for adjustment.
Chandler and Councilman Dan Rubenstein said they have been working with Borough Administrator GP Caminiti to explore ways to reduce fuel consumption, including limiting vehicle idling and adjusting trash collection operations.
Lead line replacements: Valenza raised questions about how costs for lead service line replacements will be shared, suggesting that the Council schedule further discussion on the Borough’s responsibility.
Technology costs: Council approved a resolution authorizing an agreement with RnD Consulting, LLC for IT services, noting the importance of cybersecurity and infrastructure upgrades.
Looking ahead, Caminiti outlined ongoing efforts to control costs and identify new revenue sources.
“We are very vigilant and hyper-focused on costs as we head into this year with the budget being as tight as it is,” he said.
Caminiti said the Borough is actively exploring ways to reduce fuel consumption and maximize the value of an electric truck grant, though those changes will take time.
“We don’t have a magic wand to make it all go away,” he said. “We have to think long and hard about how we can tailor services differently.”
On the revenue side, Caminiti said he is working to make Pennington a “Film Ready” community through a state program designed to attract film and television production.
“You may have noticed that film production is booming in New Jersey,” he said. “It would be nice if we could get a slice of that.”
He also noted ongoing reviews of fees, rental registrations, and potential savings related to lead paint compliance.
“All of these things are wheels that are in motion,” Caminiti said.
Arbor Day and upcoming events
Recognizing Arbor Day on April 24, Davy encouraged residents to support tree preservation and planting efforts.
“I urge all citizens to support efforts to protect our trees and woodlands and support our urban forestry program,” he said.
The Shade Tree Committee and Toll Gate Grammar School will host an Arbor Day tree planting and Green Week Student Expo on April 24.
Council members also highlighted upcoming community events, including:
- Pennington Library Friends Open House (April 18)
- Timberlane Middle School play preview, Freaky Friday (April 29)
- Memorial Day Parade (May 25)
Residents are also encouraged to review the updated Master Plan, including the Land Use Element, on the Borough website ahead of its anticipated adoption in May.
The next Borough Council meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 4 at 7 p.m.
