The meeting began with public concerns about the impact of an affordable housing development on local taxes and school system resources. Residents questioned the accuracy of statistical data regarding the projected number of students the development would bring. The members suggested that residents should seek further information from the tax assessor and Township manager.

Following public comments, the focus shifted to the Redevelopment investigation study presented by the Township planner. The study examined two properties, 320 Bloomfield Avenue and Church Street, considering their suitability for redevelopment. The planner concluded that both properties met the necessary criteria, referencing their current designation as an area in need of rehabilitation, their prime location on Bloomfield Avenue, and their access to public transportation.

During the presentation, the planner detailed the results of a field visit conducted in April. The visit revealed several issues with the properties, including inadequate parking, lack of stormwater management, and deteriorating building conditions. Photographs and a comprehensive analysis of the sites were reviewed, taking into account tax maps, assessor records, accident reports, fire department code violations, inspection reports, building department permits, and environmental concerns.

The discussion then turned to the broader implications of such a redevelopment designation. Concerns were voiced over the potential for the standards used in the investigation to be applied too broadly, potentially affecting other property owners in the Town Center and extended Town Center. Questions arose about the timing of the designation in relation to ongoing zoning updates.

A key debate emerged around the matter of the property owner’s request for the area in need of redevelopment designation. The owner had previously approached the council, possibly with the aim of engaging in a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) program. The board members deliberated the implications of granting such a designation based on the owner’s request, taking into account the need for a review to prevent haphazard development.

The role of the planning board in writing the Redevelopment plan was another significant topic of discussion. Some board members expressed a desire for the planning board to be involved in drafting the plan. The board considered various proposals on their individual merits, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based assessments and distinguishing between criteria for redevelopment and general property maintenance.

The meeting also touched on the importance of structural issues and the impact of existing zoning on properties. One board member shared a personal anecdote to exemplify the challenges associated with maintaining the integrity of the town’s zoning and development standards.

Lastly, the board discussed the strategic implications of designating the area as a redevelopment zone, including the potential effects on future building shapes and the importance of providing assertive recommendations to the governing body. The property owners, who financed the study, were open to addressing the board’s concerns, which included incentivizing shared parking and reducing impermeable surfaces.