Princeton, NJ Planning Board
Sundays tracks every public Planning Board meeting in Princeton, NJ and summarizes what was decided — master-plan re-examinations, redevelopment areas, rezonings and land-use ordinances. Land-use items are kept off the weekly Sundays email (they're a specialist read), but every one is archived here and verified against the official meeting record. 63 items on file; most recent July 31, 2026.
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Public comment on agenda items: data centers and municipal approach
During public comment on agenda items, a Princeton University student (non-resident status not stated) urged Princeton to proactively address hyperscale data centers, citing energy and water impacts and noting other municipalities’ moratoria or bans. The speaker suggested Princeton consider a temporary moratorium given nearby projects and regional development.
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Next Meeting Date Announced
The Chair announced the next regular meeting date as September 3. Board members made brief closing remarks.
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Public Comment Period — Iona LLC Application (No Speakers)
The Chair opened the public comment period for the Iona LLC EV charging application and invited members of the public observing via Zoom to speak. No hands were raised and no public comments were received; the Chair closed the public portion of the hearing.
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Witness Testimony and Board Q&A — Iona LLC EV Charging (Location, ADA access, canopy suggestion, pricing/apps)
Board members questioned the applicant about charger location, potential relocation, ADA access, canopy suggestions, user payment, and how drivers find chargers. The applicant stated the location was coordinated with the property owner, ADA access was a major factor, relocation would restart design and affect budget/schedule, and charging is a paid service found via apps/GPS.
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Resolution — Toll NJ1 LLC, Preliminary/Final Major Site Development Approval, 29 Thanet Circle (Block 5502, Lot 7), Zone AH-14
The Board considered a resolution memorializing preliminary and final major site development approval for Toll NJ1 LLC at 29 Thanet Circle. Members discussed wording related to affordable unit fees and U-HAC/UAC references. The resolution was approved by roll call vote.
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Second amendment to ground lease for Hinds Plaza outdoor dining (Princeton Nassau HKT Urban Renewal Associates LLC)
Council approved a second amendment to the ground lease with Princeton Nassau HKT Urban Renewal Associates LLC for the Park/Plaza redevelopment area related to outdoor dining at Hinds Plaza. A Council member commented on boundary clarity.
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Public comment on items not on the agenda (rezoning and proposed high-density housing concerns; traffic safety appreciation)
Three residents spoke: two raised concerns about rezoning and a proposed 30-unit, 45-foot-tall housing project near Spruce Street, citing density changes, lack of notice, parking and flooding risks, and loss of views; a third thanked police for traffic safety improvements, especially at Linden and Hamilton.
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Cancellation notice for next week’s meeting
Near the end of the meeting, the Chair stated the Board would cancel the next week’s meeting and said a final notice would be sent to everyone the following day.
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Legal update: dismissal of lawsuit challenging seminary site redevelopment plan portion
Board counsel Jerry reported that Judge Loi issued an opinion and order dismissing a lawsuit brought by the Princeton Coalition for Responsible Development challenging a portion of the seminary site redevelopment plan involving multi-use inclusionary development. He noted media coverage contained inaccuracies and said he would wait to see what happens next.
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Staffing announcements: Historic Preservation Officer and land use engineer openings
Staff announced that the Planning Department’s Historic Preservation Officer position was open and encouraged interested candidates to apply via the website. A land use engineer position in the Engineering Department was also described as open, with a request for referrals to qualified engineers.
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Public comment period during concept review (no speakers)
The board opened public comment during the concept review and invited attendees to raise their hands to speak. No members of the public provided comment.
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Concept review: Charles and Amelia De Santo, 461 Mount Lucas Road (Block 4301, Lot 12) — proposed two-lot subdivision concepts and res judicata discussion
The board held an informal concept review for a proposed two-lot subdivision at 461 Mount Lucas Road in the R2T zone. Staff and counsel emphasized no formal action would be taken and discussed the prior 2015 denial and the potential applicability of res judicata. Applicants presented multiple subdivision concepts and sought feedback.
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Recusal and transfer of gavel for concept review
Chair Louise Wilson recused herself from the concept review because the New Jersey Conservation Foundation owns property immediately east of the subject property. She transferred the gavel to Vice Chair Owen O'Donnell.
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Staff announcements: board vacancy and new state noticing law implementation
Staff announced that Julie Capazolei was stepping down from the Planning Board (Class II) while continuing as HPC chair, and provided an update on implementing a new state law shifting noticing to online postings rather than newspapers.
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Adoption of 2026–January 2027 Planning Board meeting calendar
The board adopted the Planning Board calendar for 2026 through January 2027, noting dates and that some were marked due to holidays. The motion passed unanimously by roll call.
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Adoption of resolution regarding special meetings (notice/scheduling)
The board adopted a resolution related to special meetings and noticing requirements. The motion passed unanimously by roll call.
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Appointment of Planning Board Secretary: Deedra Battle
The board approved a resolution appointing Deedra Battle as Planning Board Secretary. It was noted she could not attend due to a family emergency. The motion passed unanimously by roll call.
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Appointment of redevelopment counsel: Maraziti Falcon
The board approved a resolution appointing redevelopment counsel, identified as Joe Maraziti/Maraziti Falcon. The motion passed unanimously by roll call.
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Appointment of special counsel: Maraziti Falcon
The board approved a resolution appointing Maraziti Falcon as special counsel. The motion passed unanimously by roll call.
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Appointment of Planning Board Attorney: Gerald Müller (Müller Bailey)
The board approved a resolution appointing Gerald Müller of Müller Bailey as Planning Board Attorney. The motion passed unanimously by roll call.
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Election of Vice Chair: Owen O'Donnell
The nominating committee recommended Owen O'Donnell for Vice Chair. The board voted by roll call and elected Owen O'Donnell as Vice Chair.
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Oath of office administered to Jack Taylor (reappointment)
The board administered the oath of office to Jack Taylor following his reappointment. The oath included commitments to support the U.S. and New Jersey Constitutions and to faithfully perform duties as a Planning Board member.
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Election of Chair: Louise Wilson
The board considered nominations for Chair. The nominating committee nominated Louise Wilson. The board voted by roll call and elected Louise Wilson as Chair.
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New member attendance and oath-of-office status discussion
The Board acknowledged a new member, discussed that she had not yet taken the oath of office, and agreed she should observe as an attendee rather than participate as a sworn Board member until sworn in.
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Public Comment on Canon Dial Elm Club Application
The Chair opened the public hearing for comment on the Canon Dial Elm Club application; no members of the public provided testimony.
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Applicant Testimony: Architecture (Plans, Lighting, Roof Access, Materials, Environmental Commission Topics)
The applicant’s architect presented floor plans, roof plan, and elevations, describing the kitchen/servery/dining expansion, loading area lighting as recessed ceiling fixtures, roof access limited to maintenance, and exterior materials matching existing; the Board discussed dark-sky lighting, bird-safe glass/film, and Energy Star appliances.
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Applicant Testimony: Club Representative (Operations, Membership, Parking, Deliveries)
A club representative testified about Canon Dial Elm Club operations, including 215 members, 10 bedrooms, staffing levels, parking arrangements with Princeton University, and delivery/trash access via Washington Road and Ivy Lane.
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Notice of Ordinance 2026-08 Deferral Due to Substantive Change
Staff reported that Ordinance 2026-08 had a substantive change and would be reintroduced by Council, so it was not reviewed by the Board at this meeting.
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Public Comment Opportunity on Ordinance Referrals (Opening of Ordinance Segment)
At the start of the ordinance-referral segment, the Chair invited public comment on the ordinances under review; no members of the public spoke at that time.
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Announcements and Meeting Logistics
The Chair announced a planned break around 9:15 p.m., a 10-minute break length, and a hard stop at 11:00 p.m.; no additional announcements were reported.
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Swearing-In of New Planning Board Member (Class IV)
The Board administered the oath of office to new member Linda Schwimmer and welcomed her to the Planning Board.
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Zoning Map Update Question and Response
Councilman Cohen asked whether the zoning map would be updated to reflect recent zoning changes. Staff responded that an updated zoning map was expected the next week, after Council adoption of the changes, and noted there could be additional zoning changes in the future.
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Minutes deferred to next meeting
The Chair stated that the minutes on the agenda would be deferred to the next meeting.
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Public comment opportunity (no speakers)
After the application was carried, counsel and the Chair discussed providing an opportunity for public comment even though the hearing was adjourned. The Chair invited attendees to raise hands to speak. No members of the public spoke, and the Chair closed public comment.
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Minutes approval: March 19, 2026
The Board approved the March 19, 2026 meeting minutes. The Chair described it as a quick meeting and noted an application had been carried forward. The minutes were moved, seconded, and approved by voice vote.
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Minutes approval: February 19, 2026
The Board approved the February 19, 2026 meeting minutes. The transcript references the meeting involving ordinance referrals and master plan consistency. The minutes were moved and seconded and approved by voice vote, with at least one abstention noted.
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Counsel substitution announcement
The Chair announced that Board counsel Jerry Muller was unavailable and that Joe Maraziti was present to serve as counsel for the meeting. The Chair thanked him for stepping in.
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Announcement: Financial disclosure forms reminder
Staff reminded board members that the State requires financial disclosure forms for members of boards, commissions, and committees, with a deadline at the end of the month (the 30th). It was stated that fines could be imposed if forms are not filed.
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Next Steps Discussion: Governing Body Action and Redevelopment Plan Process
Officials outlined that the governing body would next consider accepting the Planning Board’s recommendation and then proceed to prepare a redevelopment plan, likely with a consultant and public input. They referenced prior public engagement and materials available on the municipal website and YouTube.
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Resolution Recommending Designation of 27 Franklin Avenue and 101 Walnut Lane as a Non-Condemnation Area in Need of Redevelopment
The Board adopted a resolution recommending that the Mayor and Council designate 27 Franklin Avenue (Block 7301, Lot 1) and 101 Walnut Lane (Block 31.01, Lot 105) as a non-condemnation area in need of redevelopment, based on the planning consultant’s report and testimony.
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Public Questions and Comment on Westminster Choir College Redevelopment-Area Determination
Multiple members of the public questioned the redevelopment study’s scope and methodology and urged adaptive reuse and preservation of historic buildings. Speakers raised concerns about treating the entire campus as one study area, the meaning of accessibility findings, the timing of the study relative to municipal acquisition, and the implications for current nonprofit users.
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Planning Consultant Presentation: Preliminary Investigation for Area in Need of Redevelopment (Westminster Choir College Site)
The planning consultant presented findings from a preliminary investigation report concluding that the Westminster Choir College site met statutory criteria for a non-condemnation area in need of redevelopment. He emphasized the action would not change zoning or authorize demolition, and summarized key conditions including water damage, accessibility deficiencies, and obsolete heating/cooling systems.
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Redevelopment-Area Hearing Opened: 27 Franklin Avenue / 101 Walnut Lane (Westminster Choir College Site) — Scope and Purpose
The Chair opened the hearing to determine whether property at 27 Franklin Avenue and 101 Walnut Lane met the criteria for designation as a non-condemnation area in need of redevelopment under the Local Redevelopment and Housing Law. Counsel and staff confirmed notice and introduced the planning consultant and the process.
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Subcommittee Reports
The Chair asked for subcommittee reports; none were provided.
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Announcements: Financial Disclosure Forms Deadline and Multiple-Position Filing Issue
The Planning Director reminded board and commission members that financial disclosure forms were due by April 30. A board member raised an issue about listing multiple positions on the form; staff agreed to check with the municipal clerk.
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Public hearing and vote: allowable business uses throughout the municipality (zoning code amendments)
Council held a public hearing on Ordinance 26-18 amending allowable business uses in various zones. Staff summarized targeted changes intended to clarify and expand permitted uses while deferring major restructuring to a broader code modernization effort. Multiple public speakers supported the ordinance; Council discussed concerns about downtown character and impacts. The ordinance passed unanimously.
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Public Comment (Ordinance 2026-18 master plan consistency review)
The Chair opened public comment limited to the ordinance referral. One resident commented that the ordinance was a missed opportunity and “weak sauce.” No other public comments were offered, and the Chair closed the comment period.
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Master plan consistency review: allowable business uses throughout the municipality
The Board reviewed Ordinance 2026-18 for master plan consistency and voted to find it consistent. Staff summarized changes expanding/clarifying permitted business uses across multiple districts, including crafting uses, spas, tutoring, fitness instruction, medical/dental offices, research/engineering offices, museums, and various personal service uses.
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Subcommittee reports (landscape committee scheduling)
The Chair noted there were no subcommittee reports, and that the landscape committee meeting had not yet been scheduled but would be reported once set.
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Reduction of inspection fees and escrow amount — Terhune Development Urban Renewal LLC (Harrison/Terhune Multi-Family Housing Development)
Council approved Resolution 26-159 authorizing a reduction of inspection fees and escrow amount totaling $60,789.19 for Terhune Development Urban Renewal LLC’s Harrison/Terhune Multi-Family Housing Development (Block 7401, Lots 1.102 and 1.02) in the Harrison/Terhune Redevelopment Zone.
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Carry continuation and schedule next meeting for conditions discussion (June 4, 2026)
The Board agreed to continue the matter to the June 4, 2026 meeting to address conditions of approval and outstanding items, noting the applicant’s May 14 response letter and the need for staff to draft conditions. The Chair stated public comment would not be reopened at the next meeting.
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Board and applicant responses to public comment: demolition/asbestos, construction noise and dust controls, bridge and stormwater permitting, fire flow testing, wetlands LOI status, screening/fencing, snow storage, and HOA communication
Following public comment, the applicant and Board discussed potential conditions and responses, including asbestos testing and regulated removal, construction hours and noise expectations, dust and erosion controls with a construction management plan, bridge replacement and NJDEP permitting, stormwater compliance, confirmation of a recent fire flow test, wetlands LOI validity, screening and possible fencing, snow storage planning, and establishing points of contact with neighbors and the HOA.
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Continuation hearing: Toll NJ1 LLC (29 Thanet Circle) — architectural testimony on stacked townhomes, unit layouts, materials, and accessibility
The applicant’s architect testified about the proposed 85-unit development across 10 buildings, including 17 restricted units. He described building renderings, exterior materials, market-rate and restricted unit floor plans, bedroom counts and square footages, garage and bike storage arrangements, and confirmed accessible units would be in ground-floor restricted units.
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Landscape Subcommittee report: Edens shopping center landscaping near transformer on Harrison Road
The Landscape Subcommittee reported on a proposal from Edens management for landscaping around a transformer box near the Harrison Road entrance by Nomad Pizza. The subcommittee largely accepted the plan with changes to plant species and recommended London plane trees (hybrid sycamores) instead of American sycamores.
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Attendance/Participation Note Regarding Board Member Arrival During Meeting
A note was made for the record that a Board member arrived approximately five minutes before the discussion, and there was discussion about whether that member could vote. It was stated the member could listen to the recording and otherwise would not be able to participate in the vote; the meeting proceeded to a vote that night.
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Approval Motion — Toll NJ1 LLC Application Subject to Conditions
The Board voted to approve the Toll NJ1 LLC application (P2525-712P) subject to the conditions discussed during the meeting. The motion was made by Ms. Na, seconded by Councilman Cohen, and passed unanimously by roll call.
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Discussion of Draft Conditions — Toll NJ1 LLC Application (29 Thanet Circle, Block 5502 Lot 1, Zone AH-14)
The Board reviewed and discussed draft conditions for the Toll NJ1 LLC application previously carried from May 28, 2026. Staff and counsel summarized proposed edits, additions, and deletions to conditions, focusing on substantive requirements rather than wordsmithing, and discussed multiple revisions related to EV charging, bridges, building design, HOA provisions, construction impacts, landscaping, and stormwater.
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Public comment on agenda items: Spruce Street zoning/development process and community engagement
A resident expressed anger about what they described as a last-minute addition of a Spruce Street development and a zoning change affecting their neighboring property without notice or community engagement, and asked the municipality to create robust, transparent procedures for engaging residents and developers on zoning changes.
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Resolution 26167: professional planning services for West Minister campus development/redevelopment plan (Topology NJLC)
Council approved Resolution 26167 authorizing a professional services agreement with Topology NJLC for planning services related to a development/redevelopment plan for the West Minister campus, in an amount not to exceed 33,000.
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Public comment on agenda items: police handling of anti-Israel graffiti investigation; proposed compressor station and data center air quality concerns
Speakers addressed (1) concerns about the police department investigating anti-Israel graffiti as bias intimidation and implications for free speech, and (2) concerns about emissions and air monitoring related to a proposed compressor station and a planned data center with diesel generators near Princeton’s border.
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Resolution designating an area in need of redevelopment pursuant to the Local Redevelopment and Housing Law
Council approved Resolution 26-136 designating a specifically described area as an area in need of redevelopment under the Local Redevelopment and Housing Law.
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Proclamation honoring zoning officer Derek Bridger on retirement
Council issued a proclamation recognizing zoning officer Derek Bridger for 25 years of service, noting his career began December 3, 2001 and his retirement is effective May 2026.
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Professional Services Agreement for Legal Services for Master Plan Litigation
This resolution approves a professional services agreement with Mueller Bailey PC for legal representation related to litigation involving the 2023 Princeton Master Plan.