Lazaret discussed the DEP’s plan to explore regionalization as a viable solution, proposing a structured democratic process involving stakeholders across town halls and surveys. This approach aims to ensure community involvement in determining the waterworks’ future, with possibilities including restructuring it as an independent public utility to improve governance and compliance with drinking water regulations. He assured council members that this effort is not meant to assign blame but to collaboratively enhance the system for community benefit.

The council meeting saw heated exchanges regarding the efficacy of current management and the potential benefits and drawbacks of regionalization. Some council members expressed skepticism about the DEP’s intentions, fearing a loss of local control and voicing concerns over the implications of regionalization on Trenton taxpayers and water utility employees. The debate underscored a divide between those advocating for local governance and those open to external support to stabilize the water system.

Questions were raised about past recommendations and the lack of progress in addressing issues like lead service line replacements and the unfinished open-air reservoir. Concerns about the financial capacity of the city to manage its water system were also highlighted, with some council members pushing for state assistance in building this capacity.

Many residents and city officials were wary of ceding control to external entities, fearing that regionalization could undermine Trenton’s autonomy and financial stability. They argued for maintaining local oversight and criticized the state’s approach as overreaching and insufficiently supportive. Some residents insisted that any regional governance structure should ensure that Trenton retains significant control and benefits from shared resources.

The meeting also touched upon the financial and operational challenges facing Trenton Waterworks, with discussions about unpaid bills, staffing shortages, and compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act. Staff members, such as Chief Chemist Dasia Brooks, highlighted their commitment to maintaining compliance despite inadequate compensation and resources. The council explored potential consequences of restructuring and the state’s response should they choose not to pursue regionalization.