Trenton Farmers Market Dismisses Manager After Controversial Black History Month Remark

Following community criticism over a racially insensitive social media comment, the Trenton Farmers Market Board of Directors fired its manager. The decision is significant for one of Mercer County’s most historic and community-centered markets.

Board leadership said former market manager Bill Kearney posted “Happy BH month” on Facebook underneath a news report about the arrest of three Black men charged with a December house burglary in Montgomery Township, Somerset County. The February 12 comment was removed. However, screenshots went viral, causing locals and officials to react strongly.

Kearney managed Lawrence Township’s market since 2023. He did not respond to requests for comment. Board President Kevin Gsell said the board voted to fire Kearney, calling it unpleasant but necessary.

Gsell said the board could not support the comment and felt obligated to act to defend market values and reputation. He admitted that merchants and customers have struggled, underlining that forgiveness is vital but accountability is also needed. He said the board believes Kearney regrets what he wrote, but the comment does not reflect the market’s inclusive philosophy.

In an official statement, the board pledged to keep the Trenton Farmers Market successful and improve it for farmers, vendors, and shoppers. The board stated it is forming a new management team and considered the leadership shift a constructive step toward progress. The quest for a permanent replacement continues.

The Trenton Farmers Market at 960 Spruce Street in Lawrence Township has serviced the area since 1948. As a farmers’ cooperative, it supports local agriculture and small businesses. Cedarville Farms, Corner Copia Farms, Pineland Farms, Russo’s Fruit and Vegetable Farm, Terhune Orchards, and MAAM Got Greens sell fresh produce in New Jersey. In addition to agricultural products, the market has over 36 merchants selling baked delicacies, prepared cuisines, specialty items, and artisan goods.

Community members were upset by the social media comment. Trenton resident Karly Hageman said the comment was distressing and hopes the next manager will promote diversity and support local small businesses. Jonette Smart, former Trenton Branch NAACP president, said the comment was unsettling. Smart said she has known Kearney for years and was astonished by the statement, adding that Black prejudices endure despite advancements.

The incident shows how social media affects professional accountability. Online comments on race and group identity can easily damage public trust in the digital era. Credibility and inclusivity are crucial for public-supported organizations like cooperative marketplaces.

The board denounced the remark and is working to restore farmer, vendor, and customer confidence. Directors say their top aim is developing community ties and safeguarding one of central New Jersey’s most prestigious local institutions as the market enters a new management phase.

Many local firms are stressing diversity, equity, and community engagement during the leadership transition. The Trenton Farmers Market’s quick response shows its board’s commitment to those objectives and stability and concentration.