Trenton residents demand council accountability on water department oversight

In the heart of Trenton, a passionate voice echoed through the city council chambers, capturing the attention of both council members and residents alike. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as a local taxpayer expressed frustration over the perceived inaction of elected officials regarding the city’s financial entitlements. “You are not doing your job. You're not representing us,” the speaker declared, emphasizing the responsibility of council members to advocate for the interests of Trenton’s residents.

The crux of the discussion centered on the significant funds owed to Trenton by state agencies, specifically the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Department of Community Affairs (DCA). The speaker urged council members to take a stand, insisting that millions in payments, known as Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT), had not been pursued. “They owe us money from transitional aid that they have not paid,” the speaker lamented, highlighting a growing concern that the city was not being adequately represented in negotiations with these agencies.

As the dialogue unfolded, the speaker pointed out the challenges posed by neighboring municipalities that rely on Trenton’s water services. “Those folks out in the townships, they're just customers,” they asserted, arguing that these areas had no stake in the city’s resources and were merely seeking to benefit from Trenton’s infrastructure. The call to action was clear: council members needed to defend the city’s assets and push back against what was perceived as an encroachment on Trenton’s financial rights.

The speaker’s passionate plea resonated with many in the room, as they urged the council to prioritize the needs of Trenton’s taxpayers over external pressures. “You can stay quiet and cape for the folks who put you in those seats, but the residents are not gonna go for it,” they warned, emphasizing the importance of accountability and representation.

As the meeting progressed, it became evident that the issues raised were not just about water rates or municipal boundaries; they were about the very identity and financial health of Trenton itself. The council’s response to these concerns could shape the future of the city, as residents looked to their elected officials for leadership and advocacy in the face of mounting challenges. The meeting concluded with a palpable sense of urgency, leaving attendees to ponder the implications of the discussions and the path forward for Trenton.