New Hope public meetings in 2025

New Hope Shade Tree Commission

The Shade Tree Commission will approve the minutes from the November 19 meeting and review pending items, including Arbor Day plantings at 105 N. Main St. It will then discuss long‑term plans for the street‑tree program, such as a Tree Tender pruning partnership and a street‑tree replacement strategy tied to the TCUSA Growth Award and the borough comprehensive plan. No new applications were received.

• Approve minutes from the November 19 meeting
• Pending Arbor Day plantings at 105 N. Main St.
• NWF Trees for Wildlife application submitted; announcement planned for February
• Discuss Tree Tender group pruning partnership for 2025
• Monitor long‑range street tree replacement plan linked to TCUSA Growth Award

New Hope Borough Council

The agenda provided is a notice of a meeting scheduled for December 16, 2025. No specific discussion items or decisions are listed in the provided text.

The council voted to bring former Warminster police officer Ryan Burke onto the New Hope Police Department on a part‑time basis. The motion was made by Councilmember Gering, seconded by President Maisel, and all seven members present voted aye, resulting in unanimous approval. The part‑time rate was set at $35 per hour as noted by the mayor.

• Approved part‑time hire of Ryan Burke at $35/hr (unanimous)

New Hope Zoning Hearing Board

The New Hope Zoning Hearing Board will decide on an open application at 65 W Mechanic St and consider extending a prior decision at 8-10 Waterloo St.

• Decision on Docket # 25-02, 65 W Mechanic St
• Consider Extension of Docket # 477, 8-10 Waterloo St

New Hope Planning Commission

The New Hope Planning Commission will meet to discuss an update on the borough's comprehensive plan, including a review of a business/non-profit survey and the timeline for producing a draft plan.

• Discussion of business/non-profit survey
• Timeline for draft plan production
• Discussion of potential plan topics and priorities

New Hope Environmental Advisory Council

The Environmental Advisory Council will meet to discuss 2026 priorities and initiatives. The body will also conduct an after action review to prepare the 2025 Annual Report and address expiring council slots.

• Preparation of 2025 Annual Report
• Discussion of 2026 Calendar, Priorities and Initiatives
• Council slots expiring on January 5, 2026

New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB)

The New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board met on December 2, 2025, with no formal applications submitted. The board reviewed four items: three sign installations on South Main Street and one exterior painting project. A discussion was held on the Historic Architectural Review Board ordinance. The meeting concluded with adjournment.

• Installation of a sign at 127 South Main Street (Sharon Senatore/Syn)
• Installation of a sign at 110 South Main Street (Jason Sklar/Main Street Harvest)
• Installation of a sign at 115 F South Main Street (Courtney Rankin/Dark Moon Crystals & Curiosities)
• Exterior painting at 142 South Main Street (Lori Bruno)
• Discussion of the Historic Architectural Review Board ordinance

The Historic Architectural Review Board approved the minutes of the October 29, 2025 workshop after a motion was moved, seconded and passed with all members voting aye. The board also noted that demolition of the stone wall at 24 Waterloo will not be approved until sufficient documentation is provided, and it recommended that three sign applications be forwarded to Council for approval.

• Approved October 29, 2025 workshop minutes (unanimous aye)
• Deferred demolition of stone wall at 24 Waterloo pending documentation
• Recommended moving sign at 127 South Main Street (Syn Adult Boutique) to Council for approval
• Recommended moving sign at 110 South Main Street Unit D (Main Street Harvest) to Council for approval
• Recommended moving sign at 115 F South Main Street (Dark Moon Crystals & Curiosities) to Council for approval
• Noted incomplete repaint application for 142 South Main Street; future submission planned

New Hope Parks & Recreation Board

The New Hope Parks & Recreation Board will review the 2026 budget of $35,000 and discuss holiday decorating plans for December 1‑5, including removal of fall décor and placement of lights. Members will consider a new public art proposal, the Trinity Series #7 sculpture by Kevin Forest, for installation in Lenape Park. Recent landscaping updates, such as replacing dead shrubs with six skip laurels and delivering a large river jack stone to Randolph Street park, will also be noted.

• 2026 budget set at $35,000 (Borough Treasurer report).
• Holiday decorating schedule Dec 1‑5, with removal of fall décor and planning for lights at Lenape, Ferry Landing, and VC.
• Discussion of light placement and budgeting for lights by Steve Fiala at trees, gazebo, and park structures.
• Consideration of new sculpture Trinity Series #7 by Kevin Forest for Lenape Park under the Public Arts Program.
• Landscaping updates: six skip laurels planted behind jail gates and Visitor Center; large river jack stone delivered to Randolph Street park.

New Hope Shade Tree Commission

The Shade Tree Commission will approve minutes from its October 15 meeting and review pending items, including a potential Arbor Day stump replacement by the Environmental Club. It will consider two tree work applications: removal and replacement of two trees at 105 N. Main St., and trimming of tree #76 at 53 N. Main St. Additional topics include new Tree City USA signage, a green‑space partnership with NWF Trees for Wildlife, and long‑term street‑tree planning.

• Approve minutes from October 15 meeting
• Application to remove/replace two trees at 105 N. Main St.
• Application to trim tree #76 at 53 N. Main St.
• Tree City USA new signage
• Green Space Participant: NWF Trees for Wildlife

The commission approved the minutes from the October 15 meeting. It voted to remove and replace two trees at 105 N. Main St and to trim dead wood on a sugar maple at 53 N. Main St. The commission also set the holiday get‑together for December 10 at 4:30 p.m. at Martine’s.

• Approved October 15 meeting minutes
• Approved removal and replacement of two trees at 105 N. Main St (Norway maple #1068 and red maple #1070)
• Approved trimming of dead wood on Tree #76 (sugar maple) at 53 N. Main St
• Set holiday get‑together for December 10 at 4:30 p.m. at Martine’s

New Hope Borough Council

The New Hope Borough Council will meet on Nov. 18, 2025 in the Borough’s Community Room and via Zoom. The Zoom meeting ID is 834 8305 2853 with passcode 118673. No specific agenda items or documents are listed in the agenda.

The borough council voted to waive parking fees on eight days in December and early January. The council also approved the annual Holiday Parade special events application. Additionally, Certificates of Appropriateness were approved for sign installations at 81 South Main Street, 18 West Mechanic Street, 28 South Main Street, and 12 West Mechanic Street.

• Approved holiday parking fee waiver for eight days (unanimous)
• Approved Holiday Parade special events application (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 81 South Main Street sign (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 18 West Mechanic Street sign (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 28 South Main Street sign (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 12 West Mechanic Street sign (unanimous)

New Hope Planning Commission

The New Hope Planning Commission will meet on Nov. 17, 2025 to update the town’s comprehensive plan. Commissioners will review findings from workshops 3A and 3B, discuss results of a business and non‑profit survey, and consider next steps for the plan. No formal actions are listed on the agenda.

• Comprehensive Plan Update – review workshop 3A/3B findings, discuss business/non‑profit survey, and outline next steps

New Hope Zoning Hearing Board

The New Hope Borough Zoning Hearing Board is meeting to address open applications. The application for 65 W Mechanic St has been continued to the December 11, 2025 meeting.

• Docket # 25-02, 65 W Mechanic St (Meyers) continued to December 11, 2025

New Hope Environmental Advisory Council

The Environmental Advisory Council will accept the October 8 minutes, follow up on electric‑vehicle equipment and battery‑recycling recommendations, present the 2025 Annual Report, and plan the 2026 calendar and objectives. A discussion of local aquifer conditions will be led by Joan Ramage. The meeting will also include public comment before adjournment.

• Acceptance of minutes from the October 8 EAC meeting
• Follow‑up on EV equipment and battery recycling recommendations
• Presentation of the 2025 Annual Report
• Planning of the 2026 calendar and objectives
• Discussion of local aquifer conditions by Joan Ramage

The council accepted the October 8 minutes. It agreed that Phil will send an updated draft of the 2025 Annual Report. The council also approved developing a waste‑and‑recycling resource list by the end of January and arranging for batteries to be placed at the library.

• Accepted October 8 meeting minutes
• Phil will send updated draft of 2025 Annual Report
• Approve development of waste and recycling resource list by end of January
• Approve placement of batteries at the library

New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB)

The New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board will conduct a concept review for a single-family dwelling and review several sign installation applications. The board will also discuss the Historical Architectural Review Board Ordinance.

• Concept review for single-family dwelling at 49 West Mechanic Street
• Sign installation at 81 South Main Street (Readings by Edith)
• Sign installation at 18 West Mechanic Street (House of Good Fortune)
• Sign installation at 28 South Main Street (Eyeris Art Gallery)
• Sign installation at 12 West Mechanic Street (Doubles)

The New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board met on November 10, 2025 to conduct a concept review of the proposed work at 49 West Mechanic Street. Members examined the building footprint, height, setbacks, materials and patio plans, and asked the architect for clarification on several details. No formal approval, denial, or vote was recorded for the project.

New Hope Borough Council

The New Hope Borough Council will hold a workshop on November 5, 2025 in the Borough’s Community Room and via Zoom. The Zoom link, meeting ID 881 1726 1935 and password 173994, is free to the public. No specific agenda items are listed beyond the notice of the workshop.

The November 5, 2025 New Hope Borough Council workshop featured public comments, including a concern about trucks parked near Dunkin' Donuts, and a presentation by Edward Miles of Haverford Systems on a proposed AV system for the council chambers. No motions, votes, approvals, denials, or other formal actions were recorded.

New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB)

The New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board is meeting to continue discussions regarding amendments to the Chapter 10 HARB Ordinance and Predetermined Standards.

• Amendments to Chapter 10 Historical Architectural Review Board (HARB) Ordinance
• Amendments to Predetermined Standards

The Historic Architectural Review Board met on Oct. 29, 2025 to continue reviewing ordinance 10‑10‑B and related design guidelines. Members discussed the current 45‑business‑day review period, the distinction between minor and major projects, and the timing of recommendations to Borough Council. No vote or formal resolution was recorded, and the board did not adopt any changes during the meeting.

New Hope Parks & Recreation Board

The Board will review financial reports and sub-committee updates on landscaping and naturalization. Members will discuss the placement of a 'FROG' installation in Lenape and plan winter decorations for the parks.

• Plan to remove dead trees behind jail gates and plant replacements from Feeny’s
• Ordering bagged stone from Delaware Valley Quarry for Randolph Street
• Status of finials ordered for pillars at Randolph Street Park
• Decision on placement and base for 'FROG' in Lenape
• Discussion of winter decoration upgrades

The New Hope Parks & Recreation Board approved the September meeting minutes. The board also approved replacing the dead arborvitae behind the Visitor Center gates and planting six Skip Laurels. No vote tallies were recorded for these actions.

• Approved September minutes (no vote tally recorded)
• Approved replacement of dead arborvitae behind Visitor Center gates (no vote tally recorded)

New Hope Borough Council

The New Hope Borough Council will meet on Oct. 21, 2025 in the Community Room and via Zoom (Meeting ID 828 3177 0439, Passcode 753298). The agenda provided contains only procedural information and does not list any specific items for discussion or decision.

The Borough Council unanimously appointed Trish Herlan to serve the remaining two‑month term of a vacant council seat. The Council also approved the Holiday Tree Lighting special event and granted Certificates of Appropriateness for projects at 68 North Main Street, 85 South Main Street, and 77 West Ferry Street.

• Appointed Trish Herlan to council vacancy (2‑month term, unanimous)
• Approved Holiday Tree Lighting special event (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 68 North Main Street deck (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 85 South Main Street signs (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 77 West Ferry Street roof (unanimous)

New Hope Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold Resident Workshop #4 to discuss updates to New Hope's Comprehensive Plan. The session includes an introduction and interactive stations for public input. No formal decisions are scheduled.

• Comprehensive Plan Update – Resident Workshop #4 (introduction and interactive stations)

New Hope Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider two ordinance amendments: one to the Borough Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance and another to the Zoning Ordinance that would prohibit rooftop decks. The commission will also receive a report from the Borough Council and approve the minutes from the July 21, 2025 meeting. Additional new business may be addressed before adjournment.

• Review of proposed amendment to Borough Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance
• Review of proposed Zoning Ordinance amendment to prohibit rooftop decks
• Approval of July 21, 2025 Planning Commission meeting minutes
• Borough Council Report
• New Business items

The Planning Commission approved the minutes from the July 12, 2025 meeting. Members received updates on the HARB guideline revision, the upcoming rooftop‑deck zoning amendment, and the draft Subdivision Land Development Ordinance (SALDO). The commission discussed definitions and procedural suggestions but took no further formal actions.

• Approved July 12, 2025 meeting minutes

New Hope Shade Tree Commission

The New Hope Shade Tree Commission will approve September minutes and review pending business, including a potential Arbor Day project. The group discussed scheduling changes for winter months and outlined long-term goals for pruning and street tree replacement.

• Approval of September 17 minutes
• Review of pending Environmental Club stumps
• New meeting times set for October–March
• Long-term plans for pruning and street tree replacement
• Next meeting scheduled for November 19

The commission approved the September 17 minutes and set the regular meeting start time to 6:00 p.m. for October 2025 through March 2026. It decided to reschedule the De‑Vine Intervention Event to spring 2026 and to keep the Ginkgo trees at Factory Girl’s for the remainder of the year, notifying the owner. The board approved removal of two cherry trees at Dunkin Donuts, using the remaining $1,460 budget, and will replant crabapple trees. It also directed a letter to a property owner to remove a dead tree on West Mechanic Street and instructed the shopping‑center manager to consult a landscape firm about a replacement tree.

• Approved September 17 minutes
• Set meeting start time to 6:00 p.m. for Oct 2025–Mar 2026
• Rescheduled De‑Vine Intervention Event to spring 2026
• Decided not to remove Ginkgo trees at Factory Girl’s this year; will notify owner
• Approved removal of one dead and one dying cherry tree at Dunkin Donuts, using $1,460 budget, and replant with crabapple trees
• Directed property manager to talk to Bluestone Landscape Design about a replacement tree for New Hope Shopping Center
• Sent letter to property owner Paul Keller to remove dead tree on West Mechanic Street

New Hope Zoning Hearing Board

The New Hope Zoning Hearing Board will discuss two pending applications. One is Karen S. Meyers' request at 65 W. Mechanic St to continue a private parking facility and obtain variances from §275-18.A and related provisions. The other is Waterloo 48, LLC's proposal at 48 Waterloo St to demolish and rebuild a single‑family attached dwelling, seeking variances from §275-29.C for higher impervious and building coverage and a reduced rear‑yard setback.

• Docket #25-02 – 65 W Mechanic St: variance from §275-18.A to allow a parking area and from §275-18.A(3)&(4) for smaller parking spaces
• Docket #25-06 – 48 Waterloo St: variance from §275-29.C to permit 83.66% impervious coverage (max 40%)
• Docket #25-06 – 48 Waterloo St: variance from §275-29.C to permit 68.45% building coverage (max 30%)
• Docket #25-06 – 48 Waterloo St: variance from §275-29.C(2)(f)(3) for rear‑yard setback less than 40 ft if classified as Use 14C Two‑Family Dwelling

New Hope Environmental Advisory Council

The New Hope Environmental Advisory Council will review its charter (Ch. 140) to confirm its mission. It will discuss a sustainable development checklist and enforcement of provisions in the New Hope Environmental Protection Chapter. Additional agenda items include follow‑up on an electric‑vehicle equipment recommendation, an update on waste and recycling resources for residents, and a report on multi‑jurisdictional Energy Transition meetings held September 18 in Solebury.

• Follow‑up on EV equipment recommendation
• Update on waste and recycling resources for residents
• Review of EAC Charter (Ch. 140) to confirm mission
• Discussion of sustainable development checklist and enforcement under the Environmental Protection Chapter
• Discussion of multi‑jurisdictional EAC and Energy Transition meetings held September 18 at Solebury

The Environmental Advisory Council accepted the September 10 meeting minutes. The follow‑up discussion on the EV equipment recommendation was tabled because a member was unavailable. The council noted that a battery‑recycling proposal has been sent to Borough Finance for review and the chair will recommend a library location for the recycling site.

• Accepted September 10 EAC meeting minutes
• Tabled EV equipment follow‑up discussion

New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB)

The New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board will review three applications for exterior work at 68 North Main Street, 85 South Main Street, and 77 West Ferry Street. The board will also discuss the HARB Ordinance and Pre-determined Standards.

• Review of deck at 68 North Main Street
• Installation of two signs at 85 South Main Street
• Roof installation at 77 West Ferry Street
• Discussion of HARB Ordinance and Pre-determined Standards
• Approval of August and September 2025 minutes

The Historic Architectural Review Board recommended and approved a Brava composite synthetic slate roof for the property at 77 West Ferry Street. It also approved replacement wall and pole signs for 83‑85 South Main Street. The board accepted the August meeting minutes with a minor correction and the September minutes with a correction, both by unanimous consent.

• Approved synthetic slate roof (Brava composite) for 77 West Ferry Street (approval noted, no vote recorded)
• Approved replacement wall (15 sq ft) and pole (2 ft circular) signs for 83‑85 South Main Street (approval noted, no vote recorded)
• Approved August meeting minutes with one correction (unanimous aye)
• Approved September meeting minutes with one correction (unanimous aye)

New Hope Parks & Recreation Board

The board will review a first draft of the Borough's Green Initiative plan and discuss winter decorations. Members are also reviewing potential statuary and tile installations for Randolph Street Park.

• Discussion of the Borough's Green Initiative first draft
• Proposed purchase of river jack stone from Del Quarries for Randolph Street Park
• Review of 'FROG' statuary for the Randolph Street Park pedestal
• Proposed installation of Mercer or Moravian tiles on the playhouse bridge
• Planning for new winter, Christmas, and Hanukkah park decorations

Board members discussed plantings, a frog sculpture placement, and maintenance issues but did not approve any actions. Several members were assigned follow‑up tasks, such as Beth contacting Public Works about plaques and Pamm pursuing a PECO pole removal. The meeting also noted upcoming grant applications and a preliminary green‑space plan presented by Borough Council.

New Hope Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is conducting a resident workshop to discuss the Comprehensive Plan Update. The meeting will include an introduction and interactive stations for participants.

• Comprehensive Plan Update – Resident Workshop # 3

New Hope Shade Tree Commission

The Shade Tree Commission will approve minutes from the August 20 meeting and review pending items, including the Environmental Club's proposed Arbor Day replacement of two stumps. Commissioners will consider an application to trim Callery Pears at 142 S. Main St. and discuss the upcoming De‑Vine Event. The commission will also set new meeting times for October through March at 6:00 p.m. and outline long‑term plans for the street tree program.

• Approve minutes from August 20 meeting
• Environmental Club pending Arbor Day replacement of two stumps
• Application: trim Callery Pears at 142 S. Main St.
• Discuss De‑Vine Event scheduled for September
• Set new meeting times (Oct–Mar) at 6:00 p.m.

The commission approved the minutes from the August 20 meeting. A motion was made and approved to trim the Callery pear trees at 142 S. Main St. Other items such as tree replacements and future plans were discussed but not formally decided.

• Approved August 20 meeting minutes
• Approved trimming of Callery pear trees at 142 S. Main St.

New Hope Borough Council

The September 16, 2025 New Hope Borough Council agenda contains only procedural information about meeting logistics and a placeholder for documents. No specific rezoning, contracts, ordinances, fee changes, or public hearings are listed. Residents can attend in person or via the provided Zoom link.

The council meeting featured a mayoral proclamation honoring longtime artisan Fred Eisen, declaring September 16, 2025 as Fred Eisen Day throughout the borough. No other approvals, denials, or votes were recorded in the minutes excerpt. The remainder of the meeting consisted of a tribute to Eisen and his impact on the community.

• Mayor Laurence D. Keller proclaimed September 16, 2025 as Fred Eisen Day (no vote recorded)

New Hope Zoning Hearing Board

The New Hope Zoning Hearing Board will make a decision on Docket 25‑03 concerning the property at 181 W Bridge. It will also continue the pending applications for 65 W Mechanic St (Docket 25‑02) and 48 Waterloo St (Docket 25‑06) to the October meeting. The agenda includes the usual call to order and adjournment.

• Decision on Docket 25‑03, 181 W Bridge (Rebecca River Road LLC)
• Continuation of Docket 25‑02, 65 W Mechanic St (Meyers) to October
• Continuation of Docket 25‑06, 48 Waterloo St (Waterloo 48, LLC) to October

New Hope Environmental Advisory Council

The Environmental Advisory Council will accept the minutes from its August 6 meeting. It will follow up on a prior electric‑vehicle equipment recommendation and provide updates on waste and recycling resources and the sustainable development checklist. The council will also discuss a multi‑jurisdictional meeting scheduled for September 18 in Solebury before opening public comment.

• Accept minutes from August 6 EAC meeting
• Follow‑up on electric‑vehicle equipment recommendation
• Update on waste and recycling resources for residents
• Update on sustainable development checklist
• Discussion of multi‑jurisdictional EAC meeting on September 18

The Environmental Advisory Council approved the August 6 minutes. It agreed to recommend that the borough sponsor a battery‑drop‑off bucket at The Free Library of New Hope and Solebury, and members will share related information online. Council members also committed to contact hydrogeology experts and review water‑sewer authority documents to assess groundwater quality and sewer capacity.

• Accepted August 6 EAC meeting minutes
• EAC will recommend borough sponsor a battery recycling bucket at The Free Library of New Hope and Solebury
• John Danaher will send battery bucket information to the EAC and Kelly Whitman
• Pamm Kerr will post the Bucks County recycling guide link on the borough website
• Pamm Kerr will contact Shannon Pendleton of the Solebury EAC about groundwater concerns
• John Danaher will contact Phil Getty of the Solebury EAC for hydrogeology input
• EAC will review publicly available BCWSA documentation on sewer capacity
• Pamm Kerr will ask Shannon Pendleton about appropriate borough representation for the September 18 multi‑jurisdictional EAC meeting

New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB)

The New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board will review three applications for exterior modifications and one sign installation. The board will also discuss the August 2025 meeting minutes.

• 100 West Bridge Street: Exterior hardscaping and landscaping modifications
• 72 North Main Street: One-story addition with mud room and elevator
• 76 North Main Street: Removal of rear addition and driveway installation
• 4 West Mechanic: Two amendments to an existing CofA for roof reconstruction and casement windows
• 43 North Main Street: Sign installation

The board heard the application for 100 West Bridge Street, which proposes bluestone steps, walkways and new plantings. A motion to recommend approval of a Certificate of Appropriateness for the hardscape and landscaping was made, seconded, and passed with all members voting aye. No other agenda items resulted in a formal decision during this meeting.

• Approved COA for hardscape and landscaping at 100 West Bridge Street (unanimous)

New Hope Borough Council

The Borough Council is holding a workshop meeting. The provided agenda contains only procedural information regarding the meeting location and Zoom access.

The New Hope Borough Council met on September 2, 2025 for a workshop. Public comments were heard regarding construction at 50 South Sugan and concerns about flood‑zone impacts. The council discussed the issue but did not issue a stop‑work order or vote on any action. A presentation on the Free Library of New Hope was given, with no decisions taken.

New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB)

The New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board will meet to continue discussing proposed amendments to the Chapter 10 Historical Architectural Review Board (HARB) Ordinance.

• Proposed amendments to Chapter 10 HARB Ordinance

The Historic Architectural Review Board agreed to format defined terms in the ordinance using bold and underline, and to replace the phrase “Certificate of Appropriateness” with “COA.” It also clarified that historic markers will be authorized by Council upon a HARB recommendation. The board decided to postpone any amendment for solar‑panel allowances until the Environmental Advisory Council completes its study.

• Adopt bold and underline for defined terms in the ordinance (no vote recorded)
• Replace “Certificate of Appropriateness” with “COA” in the ordinance (no vote recorded)
• Authorize historic markers by Council upon HARB recommendation (no vote recorded)
• Defer solar‑panel amendment until Environmental Advisory Council provides recommendations (no vote recorded)

New Hope Parks & Recreation Board

The New Hope Parks & Recreation Board approved the June meeting minutes. It decided to install scarecrow decorations the week of September 15, using cornstalks and plants instead of hay bales. Beth Hasher will call Ash's to order holiday greens early. The berm by Lenape Park will be open for anyone to review for planting options.

• Approved June meeting minutes
• Scheduled scarecrow decorations for week of Sep 15
• Assigned Beth Hasher to call Ash's for early holiday greens order
• Opened Lenape Park berm for public review of planting possibilities

New Hope Shade Tree Commission

The New Hope Shade Tree Commission will approve minutes from the July meeting and review pending tree work, including a trim at 26 N. Main St. and applications for tree removal and trimming. The group will also discuss long-term plans for 2025, including pruning and risk management.

• Approval of July 16th meeting minutes
• Pending tree trim at 26 N. Main St.
• Application to remove/replace Norway Maple at 83 Old York Rd.
• Application to trim tree at 32 S. Main St.
• Discussion of long-term street tree replacement plans

The commission approved a motion to forward the tree removal request for 58 West Mechanic to the Zoning department. A verbal approval was given to remove a Norway maple at 26 N. Main Street (the Dubliner). The minutes from the July 16 meeting were also approved.

• Approved motion to forward 58 West Mechanic tree removal actions to Zoning
• Verbal approval to remove Norway maple at 26 N. Main Street (the Dubliner)
• Approved minutes from the July 16 meeting

New Hope Borough Council

The agenda provided is a notice of a meeting scheduled for August 19, 2025. No specific action items, proposals, or discussion topics are listed in the provided text.

The council voted to hire a part‑time parking enforcement officer at $20 per hour. It also approved the Chamber of Commerce’s amendment to allow a pontoon‑boat music event for the September celebration. Finally, the council gave approval for the annual High Heels Drag Race event in October.

• Approved hiring of part‑time parking enforcement officer Salil Zawant (all in favor)
• Approved amendment to New Hope Chamber of Commerce special‑event application for pontoon‑boat music (all in favor)
• Approved High Heels Race special‑event application for New Hope Celebrates (all in favor)

New Hope Planning Commission

The New Hope Planning Commission will meet to discuss updates to the Comprehensive Plan. The agenda includes reviews of Resident Workshop #3 and a business survey.

• Discussion of Resident Workshop #3
• Discussion of Business Survey

New Hope Environmental Advisory Council

The Environmental Advisory Council accepted the minutes from the June 4th meeting. The rest of the agenda covered updates, assignments, and discussion topics but did not result in any formal approvals, denials, or votes. Items such as the fall newsletter article, recycling information compilation, and sustainable building benchmarking were scheduled for future work.

• Accepted June 4th EAC meeting minutes

New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB)

The Historic Architectural Review Board approved the application to replace two ground‑level windows at 186 South Main Street. The board also approved the modification of the handrail and removal of the guardrail at the Mansion Inn entrance on 9 South Main Street. Both actions were adopted unanimously by the members who voted.

• Approved window replacement at 186 South Main St (4 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved handrail modification and guardrail removal at 9 South Main St (4 ayes, 0 nays)

New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB)

The New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board met to review proposed changes to the board's powers and the 10‑8 and 10‑10 sections of the ordinance. Members debated the wording of advisory roles, citation language, and the use of written recommendations for both approvals and denials. No votes or formal actions were recorded.

New Hope Parks & Recreation Board

The Parks & Recreation Board approved the June 2025 meeting minutes. No other actions were formally decided; discussions about a LGBTQ‑community sculpture and extending Visitor Center hours were noted but left pending. The board reported a remaining balance of $16,788.98 and is awaiting a bill from Living Earth.

• Approved June 2025 minutes (no vote tally provided)

New Hope Planning Commission

The commission approved the minutes from the May 12, 2025 meeting. No other actions were formally adopted; members discussed a sidewalk field survey, a potential Blue Zone designation, underground power line issues, and canal debris removal. All items remain for future consideration.

• Approved minutes of May 12, 2025 meeting

New Hope Shade Tree Commission

The commission approved the minutes from the June 18, 2025 meeting. No other actions were formally approved, denied, or tabled. The board discussed several tree maintenance issues and future planting ideas but took no further formal decisions.

• Approved June 18 meeting minutes (unanimous)

New Hope Borough Council

The borough council unanimously approved the Run Now, Wine Later special event application. The council also unanimously approved six Certificates of Appropriateness for projects on Old York Road, Buttonwood Street, West Mechanic Street, North Main Street, South Main Street, and an awning installation. A preliminary land‑development application for 8‑10 Waterloo Street was presented, but no decision was made.

• Approved Run Now, Wine Later event (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness 120 Old York Road (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness 56 Buttonwood Street (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness 12 West Mechanic Street (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness 41 North Main Street (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness 44 South Main Street (unanimous)
• Presented preliminary land‑development application for 8‑10 Waterloo Street; decision deferred

New Hope Borough Council

The borough council held a workshop to review the amended Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance (SALDO). Council members discussed the draft, its review process, and agreed to allow two weeks for public comments before forwarding it to the planning commissions. No vote tally was recorded for this agreement.

• Set two‑week deadline for public comments on SALDO draft (approved)

New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB)

The Historic Architectural Review Board reviewed the definition of “reconstruction” and agreed to leave the language unchanged. The board also discussed the draft sign definition and decided to let the Zoning Officer adjust it for consistency with other ordinances. No votes were recorded.

• Reconstruction definition left unchanged (no amendment adopted)
• Sign definition to be coordinated with Zoning for consistency (no immediate change)

New Hope Parks & Recreation Board

The Parks & Recreation Board approved the May meeting minutes. It decided to increase the brick order price from $100 to $125 and temporarily pause other gift donations. The board also gave the go‑ahead to clean the berm area beside the New Hope/Ivyland railroad track and scheduled story‑time events for June 27 and July 11.

• Approved May meeting minutes (no vote tally recorded)
• Adjusted brick order price to $125 and paused other gift donations
• Completed planting at Ferry Landing and Lenape Park; will drill drainage holes in track urn
• Will have loose stones on new wall at Ferry Landing cemented (proposal pending)
• Will request two Certified Wildlife Habitat signs for Ferry Landing and Lenape Park
• Randy assigned to assess tree trimming or removal at Randolph Street Park
• Beth assigned to check request for pea‑gravel fill at Randolph Street Park
• Got go‑ahead to clean berm area next to railroad track (Parkyn to clean, fill, plant)

New Hope Shade Tree Commission

The commission approved the May 28 minutes and identified several tree actions: a letter will be sent to The Landmark Group about overhanging branches at 22 North Main Street; a new tree will be planted in the fall at 121 Old York Road; the dead hornbeam at 42 N. Main Street will be replaced. The board also will pursue a Bucks Beautiful grant and schedule site visits on June 30.

• Approve May 28 minutes (procedural)
• Commission to have Gloria send a letter to The Landmark Group about tree #1000 (Callery pear) at 22 North Main Street
• Plan to plant a new tree at 121 Old York Road in the fall
• Replace dead hornbeam (tree #1302) at 42 N. Main Street (Bella Vita)
• Pursue Bucks Beautiful grant; submission deadline August 31
• Schedule site visits for tree inventory on Monday, June 30 at 9:30
• Coordinate with TCUSA Growth Award and Borough Comprehensive Plan for long‑range street tree replacement

New Hope Borough Council

The council voted to hire Kennedy Strom and Tyler Vandermark as parking enforcement officers at $20 per hour. It also approved a roof replacement at 2 Stockton Avenue and several Certificates of Appropriateness for exterior paint, signage and a new walkway at various properties. The board adopted a neutral stance on the 421 Riverview Circle setback variance and approved a special events application for the Braking Aids Bike Ride.

• Approved hiring of parking enforcement officers Kennedy Strom and Tyler Vandermark at $20/hr (unanimous)
• Approved roof replacement for 2 Stockton Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior paint at 120 Old York Road (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior paint, sign installation and planters at 32 South Main Street (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for new walkway at 50 South Sugan (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for sign installation at 39 West Bridge Street (unanimous)
• Adopted neutral position on 421 Riverview Circle rear‑yard setback variance (unanimous)
• Approved special events application for Braking Aids Bike Ride (unanimous)

New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB)

The New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board met on June 10, 2025 for a workshop. Board members and staff noted the meeting was for discussion only and not a quorum for voting. They reviewed and debated language regarding flat‑roof material and color requirements in the predetermined standards. No formal decisions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

New Hope Environmental Advisory Council

The council accepted the minutes from the May 7 meeting. The July meeting was cancelled, with the next meeting scheduled for August 6. No other actions were approved or denied.

• Accepted May 7 meeting minutes
• July meeting canceled

New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB)

The board heard a presentation from Dr. Rey Velasco about the exterior paint colors and artwork on his home at 120 Old York Road. Members discussed how HARB guidelines apply to repainting and shared opinions on the artwork, but no vote or formal action was recorded. The discussion was entered into the official record.

New Hope Parks & Recreation Board

The board reviewed finances, sub‑committee updates, and upcoming planting projects. Members assigned tasks such as creating a brick‑order form and selecting plants for summer planting. No votes or approvals were recorded.

New Hope Shade Tree Commission

The commission approved the removal and replacement of six street trees at 50 S. Sugan Road and the removal of a dead chokecherry at 56 W. Ferry Street. Property owners will choose replacement species, with the commission providing guidance. The meeting reviewed the $10,000 annual budget, noting $2,410 remains for tree‑pit cleaning and replacements. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved removal and replacement of six trees at 50 S. Sugan Road
• Approved removal and replacement of chokecherry at 56 W. Ferry Street

New Hope Borough Council

The borough council voted to approve the New Hope Eagle Fire Company’s proposal for fire marshal services and to appoint Mark Nissenfeld as fire marshal. The council also granted a $350 fee waiver for a use and occupancy permit requested by the Friends of the Free Library. Several Certificates of Appropriateness for signage and a building renovation were unanimously approved.

• Approved New Hope Eagle Fire Company fire marshal services (all members Aye)
• Appointed Mark Nissenfeld as Fire Marshal (all members Aye)
• Waived $350 permit fee for Friends of the Free Library at 36 North Main Street (all members Aye)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for sign at 95 South Main Street (all members Aye)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for renovations at 4 West Mechanic Street (all members Aye)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for sign at 110 South Main Street (all members Aye)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for sign at 40 West Bridge Street (all members Aye)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for sign at 17 110 South Main Street (all members Aye)

New Hope Planning Commission

The commission approved the minutes from the April 21, 2025 meeting. It voted to start regular summer meetings at 5:30 PM beginning in June. The start time for Comprehensive Plan meetings will remain at 6:30 PM.

• Approved minutes of April 21, 2025 meeting
• Changed regular meeting start time to 5:30 PM for summer months beginning June
• Retained 6:30 PM start time for Comprehensive Plan meetings

New Hope Environmental Advisory Council

The council approved the minutes from the April 2 meeting. Members were tasked to review specific ordinances: Ross Keyes on renewable energy and energy efficiency, Mark Magerman on stormwater, and Phil Dahlin on riparian borders and invasive species. Pamm Kerr will inquire about remaining septic systems and follow up with Giant and McCaffery’s on plastic recycling. An electronic‑waste collection day was scheduled and the next meeting set for June 4, 2025.

• Accepted April 2 EAC meeting minutes
• Ross Keyes assigned to review Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency ordinances
• Mark Magerman assigned to review stormwater ordinances
• Phil Dahlin assigned to review riparian borders and invasive species
• Pamm Kerr assigned to ask about remaining septic systems in the borough
• Pamm Kerr assigned to follow up with Giant and McCaffery’s on plastic collection
• Scheduled Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day (electronic waste) event
• Next EAC meeting scheduled for June 4, 2025

New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB)

The board tabled the 120 Old York Road application because the package arrived late, scheduling it for the next meeting. The board spent the remainder of the meeting discussing roof material options for 2 Stockton Avenue, but no final decision or vote was recorded. No other agenda items were resolved.

• 120 Old York Road application tabled (no vote recorded)

New Hope Borough Council

The borough council met on May 5, 2025 for a workshop. Council members and staff heard a presentation from the Lambertville‑New Hope Rescue Squad about its history, operations, and staffing. No motions, votes, or formal actions were taken during the meeting.

New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB)

The Historic Architectural Review Board met on April 29, 2025 to review a draft revision of the HARB Ordinance and the related predetermined standards. Members discussed the source of the revisions, the need for clarification between the ordinance, guidelines, and standards, and the process for presenting recommendations to Council. No formal votes or approvals were recorded during the meeting.

New Hope Planning Commission

The commission approved the minutes from October 8 2024, October 21 2024, and January 13 2025. No other actions were approved, denied, or tabled. Members discussed a list of possible future topics such as sidewalks, playgrounds, wetlands, police contact, public restrooms, tree protection, affordable housing, developable land, traffic calming, ZHB application procedures, short‑term rentals, and regional planning. No formal decisions were made on any of these items.

New Hope Borough Council

The council adopted a motion to approve the scheduled fireworks and drone shows, requiring coordination between the Fire Marshal and the Chamber of Commerce. An earlier special‑event application was tabled indefinitely. Public comments were heard regarding environmental concerns about the fireworks.

• Approved firework and drone events subject to Fire Marshal and Chamber of Commerce collaboration
• Special event application tabled indefinitely

New Hope Shade Tree Commission

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the March 19 meeting. It discussed a tree replacement at 36 S. Main Street, a crabapple to be installed by Hugh Marshall Landscaping by April 22. Upcoming actions include a street‑tree inventory the week of April 28 and planning for the Arbor Day event on April 25.

• Approved March 19 meeting minutes

New Hope Environmental Advisory Council

The council approved the March 5 meeting minutes. The committee assigned tasks to prepare an EV presentation by June 2, obtain a prior EV charger quote, and coordinate upcoming clean‑up events and a sustainability forum. Members were also tasked with creating an environmental‑issue prioritization survey and checking on septic connections, battery‑collection programs, and cardboard recycling.

• Approved March 5 meeting minutes
• Assigned Ross to prepare EV presentation slide deck (by June 2)
• Assigned Kelly to obtain EV charger quote from Peter Gray
• Assigned Phil to retrieve registration materials for AWA Cleanup at Honey Hollow
• Assigned Kelly to contact public works about trash pickup for AWA Cleanup
• Assigned Phil to develop online survey tool for environmental issue prioritization
• Assigned Phil to check septic system status with Pete
• Assigned John to provide information on battery‑collection program and cardboard pickup

New Hope Historic Architectural Review Board (HARB)

The Historic Architectural Review Board reviewed an application to repaint 120 Old York Road. The board found the proposed colors were not listed on the historic color palette and noted concerns about the artwork. A motion was made to table the application so additional research can be completed. No vote tally was recorded.

• Tabled 120 Old York Road exterior paint application pending further research

New Hope Parks & Recreation Board

The board approved Parkyn Landscape & Hardscape as the 2025 landscape contractor and approved Big Green Lawn Care for summer watering services. Pamm Kerr was appointed as the newest Parks and Recreation board member. The board also decided to request that the current Gifts program be temporarily discontinued until additional space is available, with the brick‑only form to be updated on the borough website.

• Approved Parkyn Landscape & Hardscape as 2025 landscape contractor
• Approved Big Green Lawn Care for summer watering services
• Appointed Pamm Kerr as Parks and Recreation board member
• Decided to request temporary discontinuation of the Gifts program
• Planned update of the Gifts program form to brick‑only on the borough website
• Assigned Stephanie to handle incoming brick orders
• Approved February minutes