A key aspect of the discussion revolved around the board’s consideration of a comprehensive approach to zoning, scrutinizing the master plan to ensure that any changes would be methodical and account for the overall impact on the borough. Members and residents alike highlighted the need for a examination of the master plan, with suggestions for the borough to construct requests for proposals to seek guidance from zoning professionals. The significance of this topic was underscored by the recognition of the limitations of the board’s authority, especially regarding the prevention of new business openings during the rezoning process.

Residents voiced their concerns directly, with particular unease regarding a gun store’s proximity to the town’s only elementary school. The presence of age-restricted businesses like vape shops in close proximity to schools was also a point of contention. The debate touched upon the legal and practical challenges of implementing such zoning changes, with some community members calling for action akin to other municipalities that have taken steps to keep gun shops out.

Public input featured prominently throughout the meeting, as residents decried the lack of response from officials to previous communications and the seeming discrepancies in zoning decisions. Calls were made for increased transparency and the need for community involvement in the decision-making process, with assurances that information regarding meetings and opportunities for input would be effectively communicated to the public.

The inclusion of a link to a Second Amendment advocacy website in the meeting’s agenda drew criticism from a community member who questioned its neutrality, leading to a broader debate on the approval process for retail establishments and the potential for improving transparency. A representative from the New Jersey Second Amendment Society briefly addressed the board, although details of their comments were not specified.

In response to the expressed concerns, the board clarified its role, particularly in hearing variance applications and its limited capacity to act during the ongoing rezoning process. The importance of perception when sourcing information on state regulations was also discussed, with residents advocating for a careful and considered approach to zoning and development.

Despite the animated discussion and exchange of viewpoints, the public session concluded without further comments from the board. The meeting, which had initially faced technical issues resulting in it being live-streamed under the Borough Council meeting from the previous week, was adjourned following a motion that was duly approved.