In an effort to keep farming activity alive on the Bulk Farm, the Plainsboro Township Committee authorized public bidding for an agricultural lease for the site.
The committee voted to approve an ordinance authorizing the bidding on June 22. The ordinance was originally scheduled for a vote on June 8, but the committee deferred the vote because of confusion over one of the conditions. Since that time, the issue has been clarified.
Plainsboro officials closed on a deal for the 84-acre Bulk Farm on Cranbury Neck Road in 2008. In February, 2008, the Township Committee approved an agreement with the Bulk Family Limited Partnership, which was needed in order for the township to jointly purchase the property with the county for $3 million. The parcel was one of the last remaining large tracts of open space in Plainsboro.
The county’s dedication of $2.695 million toward the property came coming from an open space referendum. The remaining $305,000 came from the township’s own open space fund.
Officials said the lease would have a 10-year renewal option and that a number of parties have expressed interest in the lease.