Lambertville council backs Habitat for Humanity MOU as residents press for alternative affordable‑housing sites

The Lambertville City Council voted March 20 to authorize a memorandum of understanding with Habitat for Humanity to explore building semi‑detached affordable units on the city‑owned Colcomb Farm property.

The mayor said the move is intended to demonstrate good faith to the fair‑share affordable‑housing process. "This is a big step," a council member said during discussion; the council then approved the MOU authorization by roll call.

Public commenters urged caution about siting and environmental safety. Jeff Fiddle told the council that plans for development on "the Hill" raise serious concerns about flooding, traffic, an unlined landfill, and wells that have tested positive for PFAS; he said the town should identify and pursue alternative sites such as the Village Apartments property rather than concentrate development on the Hill.

Council members said the Habitat units are intended to count toward the municipality’s round 3/round 4 affordable‑housing obligations and noted the city has deed‑restricted units and an affordable‑housing trust fund supported by development fees. One councilor urged that future designs respect the neighboring historic district; another suggested replumbing the administrative code around a shared business administrator role.

Councilors addressed a pending legal process involving developer filings in the courts. A council member explained that the judge will first decide whether a developer is entitled to intervene in litigation, and the briefing schedule allows parties to file responses before the judge issues a ruling. Council members said staff will continue to file necessary briefs and keep the public informed about court dates and opportunities to attend.

The council asked Habitat for Humanity to draft the MOU and pledged ongoing updates to the public as negotiations proceed.