It had been a few weeks since the Township Committee last met, and Monday night’s meeting included several items worth knowing about.
🏢 Two New Land-Use Ordinances Introduced
The Township Committee introduced two separate amendments to Cranbury’s Land Development Ordinance.
Data Centers — Ordinance 09-26-20
The ordinance would expressly prohibit data centers in all Cranbury zoning districts. It does not apply to ordinary server rooms or computer systems that are incidental to another permitted business.
The ordinance cites potential impacts involving electricity demand, water use, groundwater, infrastructure, noise and air quality. It also notes that New Jersey’s regulatory framework for data centers is continuing to develop.
Detention Facilities — Ordinance 09-26-21
This ordinance would prohibit detention, correctional, incarceration and other carceral facilities in all zoning districts, including civil and immigration detention facilities. Temporary detention associated with Cranbury’s municipal police station is specifically excluded.
Both ordinances were introduced, not finally adopted. A public hearing and consideration for final adoption are scheduled for October 13.
🗣️ Public Comment Rules Changed
The Township Committee also addressed its rules governing meetings and public participation.
One notable change: the public-comment period was increased from three minutes to five minutes per speaker.
The new procedures are intended to provide clearer rules for Township Committee meetings and public comment.
🇺🇸 America 250 Bunting at Brainerd Lake
Committeeman Matt Scott raised the America 250 bunting currently displayed at Brainerd Lake, asking when it would be removed.
The issue was raised more than once during the meeting and was moved to the Township Committee’s action item list for follow-up.
📄 Separate Immigration-Related Proposal Discussed
The separate immigration-related proposal previously presented to the Township was also discussed during the meeting.
Resident Jenny Psaki addressed the issue during public comment, and Committeewoman Eman El-Badawi referenced it during her committee report/update.
Written material concerning state action and immigration enforcement was also distributed during the meeting. We are waiting to review that material before providing additional details so that any update accurately reflects what was presented.
What’s Next?
The two new land-use ordinances are now available for public review, with final consideration scheduled for October 13.
We’ll continue following the land-use ordinances, the separate immigration related proposal, the Brainerd Lake bunting discussion and other Township action items as additional documents and meeting records become available.