Union Zoning Board Denies Driveway Variance Amid Safety Concerns
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Meeting Type:
Zoning Board
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Meeting Date:
07/10/2024
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Recording Published:
07/10/2024
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Duration:
23 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Union County
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Towns:
Union (Union County)
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent Union Zoning Board meeting, an application for a driveway construction on Rosner Drive was denied due to multiple concerns, primarily regarding safety and compliance with neighborhood character. The applicant sought to build a driveway in front of a one-family home without an accompanying garage, a request that deviated from local zoning laws which require driveways to lead to a garage. The proposed driveway also raised questions about adequate sight lines for safe vehicle ingress and egress.
The applicant’s representative presented the case to the Zoning Board, arguing that the addition of the driveway would align the property more closely with neighboring homes, all of which have front driveways. The architectural expert for the application highlighted that while the driveway would be wider than what is typically permitted, it would bring the property into conformity with the rest of the neighborhood.
However, during the meeting, concerns were raised about the potential for sightline obstruction due to existing shrubbery and the property’s location on a curve. Further discussion revealed that the homeowner was not present to confirm his agreement to proposed concessions, such as closing off the rear garage access to prevent additional vehicular parking space.
The Board ultimately found that the homeowner’s absence and lack of confirmation on the concessions, combined with the safety and character concerns, were sufficient grounds to deny the application. The applicant’s failure to prove the necessity of the variance and to address the negative criteria associated with the proposal played a role in the decision.
Additionally, while the applicant’s representative suggested that the property would remain within impervious coverage limits and not trigger further variances or drainage issues, the Board remained unconvinced due to the absence of these modifications in the submitted plans.
Manuel Figueiredo
Zoning Board Officials:
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Meeting Type:
Zoning Board
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Meeting Date:
07/10/2024
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Recording Published:
07/10/2024
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Duration:
23 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Union County
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Towns:
Union (Union County)
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