Planning Board clarifies zoning rules at Winslow Township meeting

Officials from the Winslow Township Planning Board, including Chairman Timothy Mead, Solicitor Shirley Grasso, and Secretary Christy Mezzatesta, held a meeting on April 28 to clarify zoning regulations and municipal land use laws for residents. The session aimed to dispel misinformation and explain the board's role in ensuring applicant compliance with state, county, and Pinelands Commission requirements, as well as the township's master plan. Chairman Mead emphasized that the board is legally bound to approve applications that adhere to existing zoning, warning that changing zoning after land purchase constitutes illegal spot zoning, which could lead to legal action against the township. The discussion touched upon a proposed housing development on Williamstown Road, which has faced significant resident opposition, though Committeeman Charles Flamini noted that no formal plan for this project has yet been submitted to the planning board. Critically for data center developments, the meeting also announced that an existing ordinance prohibiting data centers in Winslow Township is slated for amendment. Residents were informed that specific concerns regarding data centers would be addressed during the Winslow Township Planning Board meeting scheduled for May 21, 2026.