William Schoelwer, Hopewell Township
Hopewell Township has always prided itself on its bucolic surroundings.
We are very close to losing it and will become a clone of mile after mile of built-up subdivisions and overcrowded schools. Have we lost the drive of the citizens that stopped the building of I-95 through the center of our township?
We are the only township on the entire east coast from Maine to Florida that prevented a rash of shopping centers and housing.
It would seem those with their own agenda are counting on the confusion of the voters. First, the number of affordable housing units is established by state law. It is immaterial whether the units are occupied or not.
These units must be built on small lots. The township ordinance states any lot smaller than 2 acres must have sewers.
Secondly, if the township does not comply with the state law, builders have the right to sue the township and will gain the right to build five houses for every affordable unit.
As long as the township is in compliance with the law, the township zoning ordinances will stand, but there are a few areas that desperately need sewers.
This bond issue does not put in sewers. The very small lots, which permit large subdivision, will be prohibited.
If passed, it gives Ewing Lawrence Sewer Authority (ELSA) the money to upgrade the system that provides our service. The cost for the average household will be an increase of $36 per year.
This is cheap insurance against developers as well as lock in a lower rate.
The bond ordinance was passed by a bipartisan Township Committee. The members are all concerned about the health and welfare of township residents. They all want to control growth. This is the way to do it.
Taxes in Hopewell are the lowest of any of the surrounding areas because of low density population. Vote “yes” for the bond issue and protect our beautiful township for our children and their children.
William Schoelwer
Hopewell Township
