Chris McFaden, the Chief Financial Officer of Union County Savings Bank, spearheaded the presentation on the bank’s renovation plans. The proposal outlined a comprehensive modernization project. The planned renovations include significant interior and exterior upgrades designed to foster a more contemporary and energy-efficient establishment. In addition to the infrastructural improvements, the bank’s exterior will see the addition of a new entrance canopy, updated signage, and enhanced lighting.

The meeting also shed light on architectural perspectives provided by Michael Davis. He elaborated on the proposed enhancements, which are set to introduce not only aesthetic improvements but also site upgrades that promise to benefit the bank’s patrons. These enhancements include a revamp of the landscaping and an overhaul of the parking facilities, with the latter aimed at accommodating an increased volume of traffic while improving overall accessibility.

A key issue that surfaced during the discussions was the status of the architect’s licensure. It was initially a point of contention that the architect directly involved in the project was not licensed in New Jersey. However, this concern was swiftly addressed with the clarification that the architecture firm’s president, who oversees the project, possessed the required New Jersey license, thus satisfying local regulatory requirements.

The Planning Board’s meeting also touched on various technical aspects of the renovation. The site engineer presented a detailed overview of the engineering plan, which included the proposed landscaping, improvements to the parking lot, and the establishment of a new trash enclosure. Furthermore, the engineer addressed the existing non-conformities and the need for variances related to the lot area, lot width, and front yard setback.

In pursuit of compliance and in response to specific requests outlined in a letter to the board, the bank’s representatives agreed to several conditions. These conditions included the installation of stop signs and stop bars, modifications to the landscaping to ensure visibility at site triangles, and the addition of a note regarding the trench drain and drywell system to the plan.

The board members evaluated the variances associated with the renovation project. They were characterized as minimal and were justified by the bank’s representatives to the satisfaction of the board.

Following a review of the plans and a discussion, the board reached a consensus, leading to the approval of the application. The members’ support for the project was evident, and the bank’s plan to modernize the branch, while adhering to local guidelines and maintaining the historical integrity of the establishment, was well-received.