Lambertville begins 2022 with new mayor

Andrew Nowick was sworn in as the 39th mayor of Lambertville, at the Philip Pittore Justice Center on Jan. 4. Hunterdon County Clerk Mary Melfi officiated.
In his acceptance speech Nowick gave a nod to anthropologist Margaret Mead. When Mead was asked what the first sign of civilization was in ancient culture, she held up a healed fractured femur bone. “This healed bone shows that someone must have cared for the injured person – hunted on his behalf, brought him food, served him at personal sacrifice.” This was the first sign of human compassion.
Mayor Nowick said when he graduated from high school he did not “have a lot of promise.” It was his “true grit” and the support of communities where he lived that got him where he is today; never imagining being able to legally marry his husband and adopt their three sons.
He spoke of Lambertville’s community and the “great deal of gratitude” he has for it which brings him “joy and optimism.” He added that his aunt who was turning 101 was watching the ceremony on Zoom.
Since Lambertville purchased the Closson property, Mayor Nowick has been checking on the buildings, dating back 300 years. He said it is a metaphor for all the generations of Lambertville who have survived challenging times. Presently, “lots of healing has to happen” and political differences must be put aside to listen to individuals.
Council President Julia Taylor was also sworn in for another term. She thanked everyone and said it was “service not politics” that brings her to this job. Councilman Ward Sanders, Councilman Steven Stegman and Councilwoman Benedetta Lambert all pledged to work together in the new administration.
All agreed that the upcoming budget will be a challenge with the outstanding debt and damage from Hurricane Ida. New cannabis regulations, which could add revenue to the city, were discussed.
Nowick announced the new board and committee members and a resolution was passed to thank the retiring members. It was acknowledged by the mayor and council that none of the work could be done without the tireless efforts of Lambertville’s volunteers.

Retiring Mayor Julia Fahl was honored by the city for her service and accomplishments. She was the second woman mayor in the history of Lambertville.
Among her accomplishments were increasing the number of volunteers, establishing the Community Advisory Board, negotiating the sale of the Closson property, increasing Emergency Services and creating virtual Zoom meetings throughout the pandemic.
She was lauded for her strength and resilience during both COVID-19 and the devastation from Hurricane Ida. Jan. 8, 2022, was declared “Julia Fahl Day.”
Nowick also thanked former Mayor David DelVecchio for graciousness during the primary election and his continued advice and wisdom.
Motions were approved setting up the city’s bank accounts and establishing meeting dates for the coming year.
Nowick spoke about public comments during meetings. He said he would like to see, “more civility when speaking to the governing body” and less formal working sessions. He discussed streamlining the email system and continuing live and Zoom council meetings.
He will be in his office on Wednesdays from 3 to 6 p.m. and on Saturdays for the first six months of his term.
Nowick said he is “looking forward to robust conversations.”

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