Pennington Borough Council Meeting Highlights: Water, Sewer, and Environmental Issues at the Forefront

During the January 6 meeting of the Pennington Borough Council, Mayor James Davy and the members addressed important environmental issues. They discussed upgrades to the water and sewer systems, plans for a public recycling session, and a grant aimed at lowering the town’s carbon footprint.

Water and Sewer Rates: What’s Next?

The Council reviewed an ordinance to potentially raise water and sewer rates. Council Member Kit Chandler explained that the costs of providing these services are on the rise. She mentioned necessary upgrades like replacing lead pipes and reducing harmful chemicals in the water, which contribute to ongoing expenses.

Chandler suggested that minor rate increases now could prevent a big spike in the future. Some members, like John Valenza, were hesitant. He proposed waiting until they knew more about future costs. However, when it came to voting, Valenza supported the ordinance, stating he saw it as only an introductory step that would allow for more discussion later. Charles “Chico” Marciante, who was also against immediate increases, voted in favor but expressed a sense of reluctance.

Recycling and Carbon Footprint Initiatives

New Council member and Environmental Commission member Dan Rubenstein shared details about an upcoming community conversation focused on recycling. This topic was the most popular among residents in a recent survey with over 200 participants. The event is set for Thursday, January 30, and more information will be available on the Borough website. Rubenstein assured that several conversations on survey topics will occur throughout the year.

Valenza informed the Council that the Environmental Commission is exploring how to best utilize a $10,000 grant from the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities. This funding will support efforts to reduce energy use, switch to renewable energy, and decrease the town’s carbon footprint.

Additional Council Business

Some other key points from the meeting included:

• Residents can now pay taxes and utility bills online using credit cards.
• There will be electronic waste recycling and paper shredding events in 2025 and 2026.
• The Council has contracted Pace Laboratories for routine water quality testing and consulting.
• The Borough is setting up alcohol and drug testing services for commercial drivers through an agreement with Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center.
• A shared services agreement was passed for a senior services coordinator position with Hopewell Borough and Township.

Later, Valenza and Marciante raised concerns about how the media covers Council activities. Newly elected President Nadine Stern emphasized the need for better communication with media outlets.

A Special Thanks

Council member Kati Angarone expressed gratitude to the Pennington Business & Professionals Association for their efforts in organizing the December holiday events, including the festive tree and Menorah lighting.

Sergeant Novin Thomas also acknowledged Rick Smith and the Public Works team for their hard work in keeping the roads safe during recent snow days.

The next Borough Council meeting will be on February 3 at 7 PM at Borough Hall, located at 30 North Main Street, Pennington, NJ.