Hopewell leaders say New Jersey American water work nearly finished; $10 monthly PFAS credit to reduce most customers' bills

The mayor opened the meeting with an update on the borough’s transition to New Jersey American water service, saying the company’s work in Hopewell is expected to finish soon and that residents should watch the borough website for weekly traffic and service alerts.

"New Jersey American is applying a 10 a 10 dollar per month credit, to all of its customers as part of their PFAS settlement," the mayor said, noting the borough also received more than $250,000 from related legal settlements. He said the overall effect for many households will be a net reduction in monthly bills compared with the rate path previously projected.

Borough Administrator Jerry walked through where crews have completed meter and service‑line work and encouraged residents experiencing taste or odor problems to contact the utility with specific locations so staff can follow up. "If they're not responsive, let us know and we'll step in and make sure that you're heard," he told the meeting.

The council described routine short‑term water quality changes that can accompany new main and service connections — flushing and disinfection steps can cause temporary taste or smell issues in isolated areas — and said the borough and the utility will try to post more local detail in weekly alerts.

The article draws only on statements made at the meeting; the council said the credit and settlements are being applied by the utility and that more targeted customer contact information is available on the borough website.