Concerns over PILOT agreements, development equity, and school funding dominated public comment at Monday’s Hopewell Township Committee meeting, as residents raised questions about the financial and geographic impacts of recent development decisions.
Several Pennington residents criticized what they described as an unfair school tax burden on Pennington and Hopewell Borough resulting from the Township’s PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) agreement with Lennar, the developer of Hopewell Parc. The issue remains the subject of ongoing litigation between the Township and Pennington Borough, with both sides having issued public statements in recent weeks.
A Township resident also called for more transparency and public communication about the benefits of the PILOT program.
Mayor Courtney Peters-Manning did not address the tax allocation directly but said the operational needs of the Hopewell Valley Regional School District—approved annually by voters—would be fully funded. Committeeman Kevin Kuchinski highlighted the Township’s commitment to use $16.1 million in PILOT funds to build new classrooms at Bear Tavern Elementary School. He also listed other uses, including a new senior and community center, expansions of EMS, police and public works services, and Township debt reduction.
Committeeman Michael Ruger added that he is in ongoing discussions with school officials about future costs associated with new student enrollment from development projects.
Another resident asked why no new housing developments are being located in the northern part of the Township. Peters-Manning responded that access to sewer service, transportation, and amenities, as well as compliance with affordable housing requirements, were key factors in site selection.
In response to a question about the former Bristol Myers Squibb property, Peters-Manning said she has no financial interest in the site, and the rest of the Committee confirmed the same.
The use of Twin Pines playing fields also came up, with residents citing conflicts between organized sports teams and unaffiliated individuals. Police Chief James Rosso said the department is available to mediate disputes and encouraged residents to contact police when issues arise. He added that officers could provide increased security presence if needed.
Bond Ordinance and Watershed Plan Approved
In formal business, the Committee introduced a bond ordinance authorizing $1.23 million to decommission the Hiohela Dam and restore the surrounding land. The dam, located near Hiohela Pond, is in poor condition, and decommissioning it has been considered a safer and more cost-effective alternative to major upgrades.
The Committee also approved a $4,960 contract with One Water Consulting to develop a Lower Millstone River Watershed Improvement Plan. The cost will be shared with other municipalities in the watershed region.
Veteran Officer Promoted
Vincent Amabile, a 23-year veteran of the Hopewell Township Police Department, was promoted to sergeant. Chief Rosso praised Amabile’s service and noted his work as a firearms instructor and drone pilot. Amabile was sworn in by Mayor Peters-Manning, surrounded by his family.
Proclamations and Cultural Festival
The Committee issued proclamations recognizing National Police Week (May 11–17), Professional Clerks Week (May 4–10), Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and Older Americans Month.
Committeewoman Uma Purandare invited the public to attend the Hopewell Township Cultural Festival, scheduled for Saturday, May 10, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Woolsey Park.
“This free event will feature performances and food,” Purandare said. “Remember to bring a blanket to sit on!”
