STATEMENT BY MAYOR JEFF MARTIN

Like so many in our nation, I am deeply saddened over the senseless murder of George Floyd. I stand with all who have peacefully demonstrated in the name of justice and a call to end systemic racism and racial inequality.

While we are a nation grieving for those tragically killed, we cannot allow our message of ‘liberty and justice for all’ to be muted by the looting and violence seen over the weekend across our country, including the senseless destruction in Mercer County last night. Violence that hurts our residents and our businesses, who are already suffering due to the pandemic, does not help to seek justice for Mr. Floyd and countless others before him.

We as humans are inherently imperfect but must not let the negative work of the few, destroy the positive work of the many.  I implore all of us to stand together peacefully. We must set a better example so the world our children are raised in, is one we can all be proud of.

Last night, Hamilton’s first responders, and specifically our Hamilton Police Department, exemplified their professionalism and commitment to keep all of Hamilton safe. They chose a profession that puts them out on the front lines instead of being home safe with their families. Our police officers and firefighters are working around the clock to ensure we remain as protected as possible. I hope you all join me in thanking them for their continued service and remarkable courage.

Hamilton is coordinating our continued preparedness with our Mercer County partners. To that effect, we are joining Trenton in instilling a curfew tonight that will begin at 7pm and end at 6am on Tuesday, June 2^nd. This curfew orders all businesses to close and all residents to be home as of 7pm tonight. We believe neighboring towns will also do the same to form a regional curfew to protect our residents and businesses.”