Outfront Media’s application was a focal point, with John Anol, the general manager for Outfront Media New Jersey, leading the presentation. The proposed billboard, measuring 14×48 feet and standing 60 feet tall, required a D1 use variance due to its non-conforming use in the B1 District. Anol provided a historical background of the company and detailed the billboard’s compliance with DOT safety and spacing criteria. Simulations demonstrated its visibility from Interstate 80, prompting discussions about the need for tree trimming or removal to ensure clear sightlines, which would necessitate permits from the DOT and DEP.

Board members and attendees delved into the details of the billboard’s operation, particularly its digital nature that allows for remote ad copy changes and the display of timely messages. The sign would change messages every eight seconds in line with DOT regulations and undergo scheduled maintenance quarterly. Outfront Media offered 12.5% of display time to Parsippany-Troy Hills for municipal announcements and emergency messaging, extending the service to other charities within the town. The protocol established for emergency messaging would prioritize critical alerts over any other content.

The meeting raised the issue of emergency coordination between the town and state authorities. Representatives explained the current agreements with other townships and the necessity for the state to reach out directly in the event of an emergency, acknowledging the absence of an automated system for such coordination.

Discussions also touched on the town’s protocol for assigning and designing non-emergency messaging on digital billboards, with a design coordinator from the administration or recreation department responsible for coordinating messages and utilizing creative department services at no cost.

The application’s technical aspects were detailed by Thiago Dwarte, a civil engineer qualified as an expert witness, who explained the site plan, construction materials, and the positioning of the proposed billboard. He also addressed the lighting system, which is designed to minimize impact on the surrounding area, and clarified issues regarding access from Route 46 and DEP regulations concerning tree cutting.

An expert planner, Mr. Williams, reviewed local land use documents and presented images from a crane test to assess the sign’s visibility, particularly regarding its impact on residential areas. He described the benefits of LED technology, such as controlled lighting and improved legibility, and addressed concerns over the potential disturbance to nearby homes.

The meeting concluded with a motion to draft a resolution of approval for the digital billboard, stipulating conditions related to necessary permits and a review of the tree removal plan. The motion was seconded and passed, moving the project forward with specific guidelines to ensure compliance with local and state regulations and to minimize environmental impact.