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Watch the June 22nd, 2026 Hammonton Town Council Meeting. • Mayor and Town Council Information: https://www.townofhammonton.org/mayor-council/ • Check out past...
Published: Jun 22, 2026
Hamilton Township Confirms Data Centers Not Permitted Use, Public Urges Proactive Ban
The council discussed the current non-permitted status of data centers within the town. They clarified that data centers are not a permitted use in any zoning district and would require a use variance, along with approval from the Pinelands Commission. The discussion was prompted by public comments urging the town to proactively ban or place a moratorium on data centers due to concerns about water usage, environmental impact, and potential burden on the community. Several neighboring towns are already implementing bans or moratoriums. The council emphasized that as the town's ordinances are silent on data centers, they are not permitted, and any future allowance would require an amendment to the zoning code. The solicitor confirmed that any development in Hamilton, being a Pinelands town, requires Pinelands approval, which could be a significant hurdle for data centers.
Personnel Changes Approved, Route 54 Project Rebid, and Budget Adjustments Made
The town council approved several personnel actions and contract matters. Michael Perner Jr. was transferred from the utility department to the Hamilton Police Department as a police officer, effective August 17th, 2026. Garrett Annabel was hired for the utility department, starting July 3rd, 2026. The council also approved a white-collar contract for employees. Regarding procurement, Resolution 111 was passed to reject bids for the Route 54, Winterman Project, Phase 1, and rescind a previous resolution. This action was necessary due to DEP requirements and the need to rebid the project to secure funding and meet state fiscal deadlines. The council also approved budget additions for the DDF police department ($43,727.79) and the Keen Communities Program ($44,526.89). A resolution was also passed to establish a fee for mailing tax notices, and another to authorize the issuance of duplicate tax certificates. The council approved amusement games for the Mount Carmel event and approved membership in the South Jersey Aviation District through an MLA.
New Police Officer Sworn In; E-Bike Safety Enforcement to Begin July 19th
Chief Frio led the swearing-in of a new police officer, Lucas J. Coya, a graduate of Hamilton High School. The Chief noted the difficulty in recruiting for law enforcement roles and emphasized the importance of homegrown talent. Officer Coya has completed the Cape May County Police Academy and is currently undergoing a three-month field training program. The Police Department has hired two officers this year and plans for a third. Chief Frio also addressed e-bike safety, announcing that educational enforcement will begin on July 19th. He stressed the importance of wearing helmets and warned that e-bikes are considered electric motorcycles, citing fatalities in the county. He clarified that scooters are not e-bikes but are also subject to traffic rules. The department will contact parents of underage e-bike riders initially, but may resort to towing and impounding. The department is preparing for upcoming events, including the Red, White, and Blueberry Festival and the 4th of July celebration, ensuring safety and traffic direction with assistance from Atlanticare for medical needs. The Chief also noted the successful layout of the recent Food Truck Festival, which enhanced safety.
Salem Oak Sapling Project Continues, Community Markets Planned, and Lake Park Upgrades Underway
The council heard updates on environmental and park initiatives. The Historic Preservation and Environmental Commissions successfully held their second annual poster contest for fourth graders, connecting curriculum on New Jersey history with local landmarks, specifically a sapling from the historic Salem Oak Tree. The sapling, planted in Arbor Day 2024, is now named 'Sal' and stands about eight and a half feet tall. Joe Bernardo of the Environmental Commission and Chairman of Oak Road Cemetery Board of Trustees detailed the planting and dedication ceremony. Christine McCullough of the Historic Preservation Commission highlighted the contest's educational value and praised the students' work. Councilman Calderon also thanked the commissions and Mr. Bernardo for their work on the poster contest. He announced the Green Committee's first community market on June 26th, with three more planned for the summer. He also mentioned participation in the 'Flags for Forgotten Soldiers' program, honoring veterans. Regarding water conservation, Councilman Calderon urged residents to be cognizant of lawn watering due to the ongoing drought in South Jersey. The Public Works department reported the completion of Tai Latin Lake Park and announced significant upgrades to Lake Park funded by grants and loans, including a new pavilion and equipment.
Water Infrastructure Upgrades and PFAS Mitigation Discussed, Route 54 Waterman Project Faces Rebid
The council reviewed several bond ordinances related to water infrastructure. Bond Ordinance 12 of 2026 concerns the replacement of Route 54 Waterman, Phases 1 and 2, with a total bond of $7.5 million, including $2.6 million from Phase 1. The project aims to secure $4 million in principal forgiveness from the state. The council discussed the process of rebidding Phase 1 due to issues with DEP approval of the initial contractor, aiming to close the loan by the end of the fiscal year to secure $2 million in principal forgiveness. Phase 2 has been submitted to DEP for review. Bond Ordinance 13 of 2026 is for the Lakeview Garden waterline, addressing PFAS contamination affecting 54 homes. The town is seeking state grants or principal forgiveness for this project. Additionally, the town is participating in a lead and galvanized water line service inspection program, with informational tables at the Blueberry Festival and subsequent door-to-door visits. Residents with older water meters are also encouraged to schedule replacements. The town is also upgrading Lake Park with funds from a Green Acres grant ($600,000) and an interest-free loan ($150,000), along with grants from the National Fitness Campaign ($40,000) and local recreation improvement grants ($62,000).
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The Hammonton News archive
Watch the June 22nd, 2026 Hammonton Town Council Meeting. • Mayor and Town Council Information: https://www.townofhammonton.org/mayor-council/ • Check out past...
Town Council Meeting 6-22-26
Town of Hammonton - Town Council Meeting 06-22-2026
Jake's Fishing Derby Hammonton Lake Park
Watch the June 8th, 2026 Hammonton Town Council Special Meeting. • Mayor and Town Council Information: https://www.townofhammonton.org/mayor-council/ • Check out...
Watch the June 8th, 2026 Hammonton Town Council Special Meeting. • Mayor and Town Council Information: https://www.townofhammonton.org/mayor-council/ • Check out...
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