March 19 feast to help Cranbury residents better understand what HPAC does.
By: Matthew Kirdahy
Diners who attend next Month’s annual potluck dinner will get a chance to learn how changes proposed for the township’s historic zone may affect their homes.
The dinner, sponsored by the Cranbury Historical and Preservation Society, is scheduled for March 19 at 6:30 p.m. in Fellowship Hall of the First Presbyterian Church of Cranbury.
The township Historical Preservation and Advisory Committee will make a presentation at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free.
Peter Turner, historical society vice president and co-coordinator of the event, said HPAC is "putting together a dynamite presentation."
"It will involve info about HPAC, how it evolved, where it is and what its new changes will be," he said. "Anyone who lives in Cranbury can use this as an opportunity to find more out about the organization."
Established in 1988, the township Historic Preservation Advisory Committee is a five-member committee that advises the planning and zoning boards, as well as residents, on the impact of development applications on structures designated as historic or located in the historic district.
Mr. Turner said representatives of HPAC will discuss an amendment proposed last year that would redefine the existing boundaries of the historic district. The amendment would ease some rules requiring homeowners in the historic district to gain approval from HPAC before any construction or home improvements begin and will include a reference book to use as a guide for homeowners and HPAC.
The Township Committee and HPAC members had said they hope to have the amended ordinance adopted this year.
"They’re going to talk about what those changes mean and the impact they’ll have," Mr. Turner said. "It’ll be an interactive educational evening. With this topic, we’re hoping for a big turnout."Mr. Turner said guests should bring salad, a main dish or dessert that serves 8-10 people, along with a dinner plate and silverware. Beverages will be provided.
Mr. Turner said he hopes for between 100-125 people to attend. Last year the event drew 80 historical society members and Cranbury residents. He expects the event on March 19 to run until 9 p.m.