The Charter Club renovation sparked a thorough discussion, focusing on extensive architectural modifications and the introduction of new elements designed to enhance both functionality and historical integrity. The proposal featured updates such as built-in gutters and Hicken shift stone for ground-level walls, while new windows and stucco finishes were planned for various elevations. A notable addition was the proposed East Terrace, designed to replicate the North Terrace using matching materials like Haden Stone cast stones. The plan also incorporated a new Pavilion, with architectural details such as fiberglass column covers and a copper standing seam roof, which aligned with the historical character of the existing structure.

The necessity of modernizing the Charter Club to accommodate its growing membership and enhance energy efficiency was highlighted. Plans for an elevator and improved service areas were integrated into the design to meet accessibility and operational standards. Considerable attention was given to the placement of a transformer, vital for the club’s electrical needs, which necessitated variances due to non-conformities in building setbacks. Efforts to mitigate the transformer’s visual impact through landscaping were discussed.

Parallel to the Charter Club discussion, the council reviewed the Princeton Nursery School’s preservation plan. Located within a historic district, the nursery school sought approval for exterior repairs necessitated by water damage. The proposed renovations aimed to address structural issues with a focus on maintaining historical aesthetics. The plan included resurfacing the stucco, repairing window sills, and ensuring new materials matched existing ones.

The council’s deliberation shifted towards the ADU proposal, which presented plans to construct a residential unit behind an existing garage on a historic property. The ADU’s design promised architectural consistency with the garage, minimizing street visibility and respecting the historical context of the area. However, the accompanying carport and breezeway elements drew criticism for their potential visual impact on the neighborhood. Suggestions were made to refine these designs, such as enclosing the breezeway for weather protection and considering alternative placements for the carport to improve integration with the streetscape.

Balancing preservation with modernization emerged as a recurring theme, exemplifying the complex decision-making involved in managing historical properties within a growing community.