The Township of Mendham in Morris County has scheduled an important Public Hearing on Monday, September 29, 2025, at 7:30 PM at the Mendham Township Town Hall, located at 2 West Main Street in Brookside. The hearing will take place during the regularly scheduled Governing Body meeting and will address critical infrastructure issues under the New Jersey Water Infrastructure Protection Act (WIPA).
This hearing focuses on an Emergent Condition Certification related to the township’s wastewater systems. Local officials, engineers, and financial advisors have determined that certain conditions exist which qualify as emergent under state law, raising serious questions about the long-term sustainability and operation of the township’s wastewater infrastructure.
What the Report Found
A detailed report prepared by French & Parrello Associates, Mendham Township’s engineering consultants, outlines two major concerns impacting the wastewater system:
- Emergent Condition #4 – A lack of historical investment, repair, and sustainable maintenance, combined with material damage to the existing infrastructure.
- Emergent Condition #5 – Limited financial, technical, or managerial capacity within the township to adequately resolve these issues and maintain the system in a way that supports local economic activity on a long-term basis.
The engineering analysis highlights that the township’s wastewater system has reached a critical juncture, where aging infrastructure and insufficient funding threaten its ability to reliably serve residents and businesses.
Economic Considerations for the Township
In addition to the engineering findings, a financial review by NW Financial Group, LLC, Mendham Township’s independent financial advisor, concluded that a sale of the wastewater system could provide an economic benefit to the community.
The recommendation suggests that transferring ownership or operation to a qualified private or public utility may not only address the emergent conditions but also deliver greater stability, efficiency, and financial relief for the township in the years ahead.
Why This Matters for Mendham Residents
Water and wastewater systems are critical public services, and their condition directly affects community health, local development, and property values. The decisions made at this hearing will shape the future of Mendham Township’s ability to provide reliable wastewater services and could influence how infrastructure upgrades are funded and maintained moving forward.
Residents are encouraged to attend the September 29th hearing to learn more, ask questions, and share feedback with township officials.
Context: Water Infrastructure Across North Jersey
Communities throughout North Jersey are facing similar infrastructure challenges as aging systems strain local budgets. From sewer upgrades to drinking water improvements, municipalities are navigating the balance between rising costs and the need for long-term sustainability.
Mendham’s public hearing reflects a broader regional conversation about how best to manage essential services, modernize outdated systems, and protect the future of water resources.
Key Details at a Glance
- Event: Public Hearing on Emergent Condition Certification – Wastewater Systems
- Date: Monday, September 29, 2025
- Time: 7:30 PM
- Location: Mendham Township Town Hall, 2 West Main Street, Brookside, NJ 07926
- Subject: Consideration of wastewater system conditions under the Water Infrastructure Protection Act (WIPA) and potential sale of the systems.
Get Involved
For Mendham residents and stakeholders, this public hearing is an opportunity to directly participate in decisions that affect the township’s infrastructure and future development. Attendance is strongly encouraged for those who want to stay informed and engaged in how Mendham Township addresses these emergent water infrastructure challenges.
