The committee, presided by Mayor Michael J. Ferrante, also addressed the follow-up from a November 2023 planning board meeting regarding a developer’s site plan that faced additional requirements by the county after township approval. A commitment was made to investigate and report back on this issue.

Another point of discussion included the alignment of various liaison duties among committee members. Lisa Knierim highlighted potential conflicts between her responsibilities and emphasized the need for a formal decision on the future of the Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC) for 2024. She proposed February 12th as the date for presenting residential and business surveys to the committee but remained flexible based on the agenda’s load.

Knierim also brought attention to the necessary appointment of a lead for the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign, traditionally a role within the Board of Health, to ensure continuity and effective implementation. She suggested designating Karen Kelly from the Cranbury Historic Preservation Society (CHPS) as the point person for New Jersey Revolution, a cross-committee initiative focused on establishing goals and potential fundraising for 2024-2026.

The committee members took a moment to appreciate the success of projects such as the new walking path connecting Ingram to Birchwood and Bennett Place, which has improved pedestrian access and safety. The construction of a kiosk at Cranbury Brook Preserve was also commended, with plans to become the standard design for future township entrances.

The meeting proceeded with routine committee business, including approval of the December meeting minutes and a brief discussion of board and commission vacancies. There were no reports from boards or commissions due to the meeting’s timing early in the new year.

In closing, public comments were invited but none were made. The committee concluded by addressing action items related to the planning board sidewalk issue and the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign and confirmed the upcoming mayor’s update.