Session on historical status of Princeton neighborhood postponed

By Nick Norlen, Staff Writer
   A work session originally scheduled for Dec. 3 to discuss options for Princeton Township’s Deer Path and Clover Lane neighborhood — in terms of its historical status — has been postponed until after the New Year, Committeeman Chad Goerner announced this week.
   Mr. Goerner, who acts as the liaison to the Historic Preservation Committee, said the session will likely be held at the committee’s first or second meeting in January, which will give Regional Planning Director Lee Solow enough time to prepare materials for the meeting.
   A debate about the neighborhood has surrounded the Historic Preservation Commission’s determination that the area — known for its mid-century modern architectural style featuring carports and a mix of slanted and flat roofs — is at least eligible for a historic district.
   Advocates for the designation have claimed it would protect the neighborhood’s character, while opponents have argued it would restrict homeowners’ property rights, and yet others have simply called for heightened zoning regulations.
   Mr. Goerner has said the purpose of the meeting is for the neighborhood’s residents to provide feedback about the potential options, which will give the committee ideas to be submitted to the Regional Planning Board for review.
   He said residents of the neighborhood will be sent letters notifying them of the meeting.