The meeting commenced with a ceremonial swearing-in of three new probationary officers for the Princeton Police Department. The police chief provided detailed insights into the rigorous recruitment process, which began in March with over 140 applicants. The new officers—Nicole Karinante, Jordan Niti, and Connor Lucky—were introduced individually before taking their oaths. Karinante, with a background in business management, previously served as a Class 2 officer in Point Pleasant Beach. Niti, a criminal justice graduate, interned with the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office and was in training at the Mercer County Police Academy. Lucky, also a criminal justice graduate, was previously an intern with the department. The chief underscored the importance of the oath, emphasizing its representation of a lifelong commitment to service with integrity, courage, and dedication. The ceremony concluded with applause for the new recruits and gratitude expressed to their families.

Following the swearing-in, the council addressed various community initiatives. One council member announced upcoming sustainability events, including a greenhouse tour and video screening at the public library, garden tours, a Shredfest for document disposal, and a hazardous waste disposal event. A notable project is the planting of a micro forest at Quarry Park, scheduled for October 4, with a rain date of October 5. This initiative aims to provide ecological benefits and potentially serve as a future model for the town.

The Historic Preservation Commission proposed two plaques commemorating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution.

Another topic was the kiosk design competition, now closed for applications. The competition engaged high school and college students, as well as professionals, and was overseen by Josh Zinder. The council recognized this initiative as a successful example of community involvement. Additionally, an open house event hosted by the fire department was announced for October 5, inviting public participation.

In police updates, two reports covering July and August were presented. The annual community night out on August 5 saw strong collaboration among officers, municipal staff, and residents. The chief noted a statewide decline in speeding summons since 2020, attributed to staffing constraints, legislative changes, and a shift towards education-focused policing. Plans to enhance traffic safety include assigning additional officers to a dedicated traffic safety bureau to increase patrol visibility and address resident concerns.

A proclamation for Unity’s 2025 Communities of Light was read, honoring the organization’s efforts supporting victims of domestic violence and sexual assault since 1977. The mayor encouraged community participation by placing luminaries outside homes on October 27, with proceeds funding essential services for victims.

Several resolutions were passed, including one for police promotions, elevating the police captain to chief effective October 1. This move was met with congratulations from the council, highlighting a supportive atmosphere for the newly appointed chief. Another resolution authorized a federal agreement modification for intersection and pathway improvements at Rosedale Road and General Johnson Drive, along with a professional services agreement for related design services.

Further resolutions addressed tree planting for fall 2025, prioritizing the Witherspoon Jackson neighborhood following a tree canopy analysis. The engineering department was acknowledged for its efforts to prioritize tree planting in response to community concerns about tree loss due to disease. Additional resolutions approved contracts for sewer GIS layer updates and specialized deer management services. Concerns were raised regarding the humane treatment of the local deer population, with a call for more compassionate management methods.