Margate Planning Board Approves Pool Construction
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Meeting Type:
Planning Board
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Meeting Date:
04/25/2024
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Recording Published:
04/29/2024
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Duration:
189 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Atlantic County
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Towns:
Margate City
- Meeting Overview:
The Margate Planning Board’s recent meeting resulted in the approval of several variance applications, including a controversial decision to allow the construction of a pool on a property with a complex historical context. The case of Ronald and Sher Rapael’s application to construct a swimming pool in an area originally designated as a buffer in 1983 sparked debate due to the city’s historical lack of enforcement of conditions and the absence of a homeowners association to oversee compliance. Despite concerns raised by residents about potential flooding, drainage, and noise issues, the board approved the variance with five members in favor and three opposed.
The Rapael’s application required an amended site plan approval and a landscape coverage variance. The board reviewed various documents and heard arguments emphasizing the city’s inaction over the past 40 years, questioning the city’s ability to impose conditions now.
In addition to the Rapael’s case, the board approved a variance application for a new single-family home in the s30 zoning district, featuring a flat roof design that deviated from the standard 512 pitch requirement. The architect presented a vision for a modern architectural aesthetic. The board approved the application with no opposition, acknowledging the unique design and its compliance with setback and landscaping requirements.
Another notable application involved the Laar’s request for a variance to construct a trellis over an existing deck. The board members scrutinized the potential visual impact on the area and the increase in coverage due to the trellis. After a examination, the board approved the application, focusing on the specific dimensions and purpose of the trellis.
The board also evaluated an application to elevate an existing single-family home to meet flood compliance requirements. The elevation would allow for additional storage and parking, necessitating variances for building coverage, side yard setback, and garage door setback. After discussing the potential impact on the surrounding area, the board approved the application with conditions pending the submission of clarified details.
Additionally, the board deliberated on Gregory and Rachel George’s property seeking variances for renovating an existing single-family home. The board discussed deck size, setbacks, and landscape coverage variances, ultimately approving them with eight members in favor.
Various perspectives were offered on the applications, with a consistent theme of ensuring conformity with the neighborhood and adherence to zoning regulations.
During the public portion of the meeting, residents voiced their concerns about the potential issues arising from construction, such as flooding, drainage, and noise. The board took these testimonies into consideration, emphasizing that the behavior of potential future neighbors could not be a factor in their decision-making.
Michael Collins
Planning Board Officials:
Richard Patterson, Michael Richmond, Tom Collins, Jim Galantino, Michael Cristaldi, Margaret Guber-Nulty, Craig Palmisano, Stephen Jasiecki, Drew Campbell, Michael Ruffu, John Pitts (Mayor’s Designee), Elias Manos (Board Solicitor)
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Meeting Type:
Planning Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
04/25/2024
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Recording Published:
04/29/2024
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Duration:
189 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Atlantic County
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Towns:
Margate City
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