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Mayor details growth, grants and stormwater plans in State of the City address
Summary
In the State of the City address, the mayor said Lambertville's 2024 property valuation rose sharply and highlighted new revenue from cannabis dispensaries, several capital projects (DPW, library repairs), a $450,000 federally reimbursed stormwater project, and the creation of a part‑time stormwater coordinator role.
Mayor delivered a State of the City address during the council meeting, outlining economic, infrastructure and administrative priorities for the year.
The mayor reported that 2024 real‑property valuation for Lambertville was reported at roughly $923 million and said the city may reach $1 billion in valuation within a year or two. He also noted municipal revenue contributions from two operating cannabis dispensaries and one under construction, and listed 42 registered short‑term rentals and 246 long‑term rentals as ongoing economic contributors.
In infrastructure updates, the mayor said plans for new stormwater infrastructure behind the firehouse received final approval and that the project's estimated $450,000 cost will be reimbursed through a federal appropriation. The city has purchased a new street sweeper and a CCTV camera to assess storm sewer conditions, and has created a 16‑hour per week stormwater coordinator position who will file monthly reports to the governing body.
The mayor listed additional municipal work: repaving projects on North Franklin and sections of Swan and South Union streets (a NJDOT grant will fund part of the work), ongoing DPW facility upgrades, library repointing and painting funded by bonded money, and efforts to secure federal and foundation grants for parks and green‑space improvements.
On personnel and administration, he reported the city employs 27 full‑time and 12 part‑time staff, noted several retirements and hires, and thanked volunteers who serve on boards and commissions. He also said the city amended a fire prevention ordinance in 2024 designating the Lambertville Fire District as lead agency; the fire official completed 506 inspections in the ordinance's first year.
The address closed with reminders about upcoming committee meetings, holiday closures and licensing deadlines; the mayor said the address text will be posted to the city website and that several items discussed (including Van Park housing feasibility and Fisherman's Mark property negotiations) are at early stages and may move slowly.
The council then moved onto consent items and other business, including Resolution 43‑22 and the first reading of Ordinance 01225 to extend a lease with Fisherman's Mark.
