The Liberty Harbor North Redevelopment Plan saw the most discussion, with proposed amendments for a 32-story residential building on Marin Boulevard, including 15% affordable housing. The amendments were recommended for adoption by the municipal council, with planning staff support, highlighting the project’s alignment with the master plan’s goals and the emphasis on sustainable, transit-oriented development.

The board examined the potential impacts of the proposed building’s height and the removal of a mandatory hotel requirement for a specific site within the redevelopment area, provoking a debate about the interpretation of building classifications based on stories and heights. The exchange underlined the challenges in reconciling differing interpretations of the proposed changes and the potential implications for the redevelopment area.

The discussion of the Paulus Hook Redevelopment Plan concerned the creation of a new plan for Block 11606, aiming to replace surface parking with open space and a new building of up to 600 units, including 15% affordable housing. The proposed plan would require the developer to operate the publicly accessible green space and incorporate a parking deck in the East district. The developer’s cooperation with the owner of the 72 Montgomery Street project and the support of Councilman Solomon and neighborhood groups were highlighted, along with concerns about parking for the Batter R View tenants.

Adding to the meeting’s outcomes, the board approved artist certification for Olga N. Shin, recognizing her eligibility for artist housing. The planning staff’s recommendation was followed by a unanimous board vote.

Another key approval was for the conditional use application by Backpack Boys JC LLC for a cannabis dispensary on Grand Street. The planning staff recommended approval with conditions pertaining to building renovations, layout, security measures, and zoning compliance, which the applicant agreed to.

The site plan amendment for a property on Fifth Street also saw a resolution, with the board approving the project with conditions recommended by the Historic Preservation Commission staff, following an accidental removal of the facade leading to the need for a new plan.

The meeting also touched on the review of amendments to the Liberty Harbor North Redevelopment Plan for 155 Boulevard, seeking to change use and permitted height for mixed-use development. The debate centered on the potential effects on the surrounding area and the necessity for further review.

Eugene Palino, representing an objector, challenged the potential conflict between existing ordinances and proposed amendments to the Liberty Harbor North Redevelopment Plan, and the involvement of the planning division in supporting a private individual’s amendment request. The council for the applicant disputed these objections, stating that the planning board’s role is to review amendments for master plan consistency, not to legislate.

Architect Dean Marchetto testified about the proposed hotel at Liberty Harbor North, discussing dimensions, zoning, and potential design. This testimony aimed to clarify the project’s implications and alignment with redevelopment guidelines.

In a presentation by Mr. Marchetto, the proposed 32-story residential building’s design and zoning requirements were detailed, emphasizing its contribution to affordable housing in Jersey City. Board member Mr. Pino inquired about the calculations for building height and affordable housing requirements, leading to a discussion on the inclusionary zoning ordinance and its application.