Princeton Approves Assessment For Special Improvement District Despite Some Owner Concerns

PRINCETON, NJ — Princeton Council unanimously approved two resolutions during their June 8 meeting – an annual assessment for the Special Improvement District (SID), and the 2025-26 budget for SID.

During the public comment section, a debate followed over whether all assessed businesses receive equal benefits.

A physician operating at Nassau Street raised concerns about paying into a system she feels primarily benefits the central business district.

Her private practice, she noted, is located outside the downtown core and doesn't receive direct enhancements like seasonal enhancements and plantings that Experience Princeton provides to central Princeton.

“We really receive no added enhancements that the funds are being used for. So, there's no seasonal decorations, there's no storefront beautification where I am, there's no holiday decor, there's no seasonal planting. And despite this, we are expected to shoulder the same financial burden as those who do benefit from being within the immediate downtown space,” the physician said.

“I've been in Princeton for many, many years, and I fully support the town's future. I would love to see it continue to thrive, but I do believe that equity matters. It's difficult to justify all these increased costs to small businesses like myself, when there's no real direct return. So, I just respectfully ask the council to maybe reevaluate how these boundaries are determined and perhaps adjust the taxation model that's used.”

Former Councilman Lance Liverman, who owns real estate outside the central district, offered a different perspective.

Despite initially sharing similar concerns, Liverman said his views have evolved after observing the district's broader impact.

“I can truly say that I have been converted - meaning that the town of Princeton looks a lot better. It looks a lot cleaner. The businesses are attracting more people, when I put ads in the paper, or when I put my apartments for rent, I've seen an increase in folks that are applying from all over,” Liverman said. “So, I do see where Experience Princeton has been a plus, even though I don't see the actual greenery or lighting or those things."

Councilwoman Michelle Pirone Lambros suggested further discussion with Kremer and board members to address the complexities involved, agreeing on the need for a conversation to resolve the issues.

“I would really like to engage in a conversation, because there's a lot of complexity to how we set up the percentages and the districts, and there are things that we're working on, like fixing the allowable uses in town, making things easier for permitting,” Pirone Lambros said.

"There are things we are working on that may not be as visible as holiday decorations, but are very impactful to all the businesses across the board."

The Special Improvement District model allows the municipality to levy additional assessments on properties within designated areas to fund enhanced services and improvements beyond basic municipal services.

Council voted unanimously on both resolutions.

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