Hopewell Borough Council’s March 6 meeting saw a wave of public comments, with concerns raised about new ordinances and ongoing projects.
Grease Trap Ordinance Sparks Debate
Lyn Farrugia, owner of Aunt Chubby’s Luncheonette and Bakery, questioned the lack of communication with restaurant owners regarding a proposed ordinance, which mandates annual grease trap inspections by a certified plumber.
“My concern isn’t the ordinance details, but the process of how this comes to light,” Farrugia said. “We live in a small town, we all know each other—why didn’t anyone call the restaurants? Why was there no discussion at all among the people who this matters to the most?”
She emphasized the economic and social role of local eateries, expressing disappointment that restaurant owners weren’t consulted.
Mayor Ryan Kennedy and Council members Sheri Hook and Heidi Wilenius acknowledged the oversight, with Kennedy explaining that the ordinance stemmed from a grease trap issue at one restaurant that caused damage to neighboring properties.
Resident Ethan Unick, who has restaurant experience, noted that most establishments already use professional cleaning services every 90 days, raising concerns about potential redundancy in the ordinance.
In response, the council unanimously voted to table Ordinance No. 894 until the April 3 meeting to allow for further discussion.
Concerns Over Hopewell 57 Redevelopment
James Higgins questioned whether the borough had conducted due diligence on the developer for proposed Hopewell 57 project at 57 Hamilton Avenue.
“When I hire someone, I check references,” Higgins said. “You’re approving a project with major community concerns—have you verified this developer’s qualifications?”
Higgins cited past projects, including one in Bordentown that remained incomplete for 13 years. Councilman David Mackie responded briefly, “Thank you for your comments.”
Courtney Palmbush, speaking via Zoom, echoed Higgins’ concerns.
Ambulance Fee Ordinance Raises Questions
Mel Meyers, a fire commissioner speaking as a private citizen, addressed Ordinance No. 895, which would allow the borough to bill insured patients’ health insurance for ambulance services. This proposed ordinance was up for a first read at the meeting.
“I don’t disagree with the ordinance,” Meyers said. “But it says the township is in charge of collecting these ambulance fees. So when it is one of the borough’s three ambulances, staffed by our own volunteers, how is the township going to reimburse the borough or fire commissioner.”
Mayor Kennedy acknowledged the issue, assuring Meyers, “That’s an excellent question. There is a public hearing next month on that ordinace, we’ll make sure to have the answer to your question.”
Council members suggested that the township would collect fees and distribute funds accordingly, but the borough will confirm details before the next meeting.
The council voted unanimously to move Ordinance No. 895 to a public hearing on April 3.
Other Council Actions
The council also unanimously approved:
- Resolution 2025-46: NJ Historic Trust Railroad Station Grant
- Resolution 2025-47: Appointing a Fund Commissioner
- Resolution 2025-48: Hiring a laborer for the Department of Public Works
Technical difficulties disrupted the meeting several times, but a video recording (with minor interruptions) is available on the borough’s YouTube channel.
Upcoming Meetings & Public Hearings
The next Hopewell Borough Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, April 3, at 7:00 p.m. at Borough Hall (88 East Broad Street). It will include public hearings on:
- Ordinance No. 894 (Grease Trap Maintenance)
- Ordinance No. 895 (Ambulance Fee Collection)
For more information on upcoming meetings and borough issue—visit www.hopewellboro-nj.us.
