The board announced that Judge Lowry dismissed the lawsuit filed by the Princeton Coalition for Responsible Development. The lawsuit challenged the redevelopment plan for a portion of the seminary site, which includes a multi-use and inclusionary development. Although the decision was favorable for the board, an additional suit concerning the master plan remains unresolved. The board expressed cautious optimism.

In a separate discussion, the board reviewed an ordinance proposal concerning the definition of minor site plans and the procedural requirements for administrative approvals and zoning permits. The proposed ordinance aims to prevent applications requiring conditional use approval, subdivision approval, stormwater relief, or variance relief from being filed as minor site plans. This change would ensure such applications automatically proceed to the planning board rather than being initially reviewed by the site plan committee. The ordinance also introduces expiration dates for administrative waivers and zoning permits to prevent prolonged inactivity. The board found the ordinance consistent with the master plan’s goal of streamlining review and permitting procedures.

The board briefly touched on the progress of code harmonization efforts, emphasizing that the proposed ordinance is a preliminary measure ahead of broader changes anticipated from the master plan’s recommendations. Board members expressed support for the ordinance, recognizing its potential to make application processes more efficient and sensible.