Morris Town Council Discusses Affordable Housing and Cannabis Facility Developments
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
08/19/2024
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Recording Published:
08/29/2024
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Duration:
22 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Morris County
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Towns:
Morris
- Meeting Overview:
The Morris Town Council meeting on August 19th covered updates on affordable housing mandates and the status of cannabis facilities in the area. The discussions provided critical insights into the township’s future plans and immediate actions regarding these issues.
The most pressing topic discussed was the forthcoming affordable housing quotas expected from the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) by October 20, 2024. This date marks the deadline for the DCA to provide housing numbers that municipalities must use to develop their affordable housing plans.
Moreover, there was a discussion regarding the recent withdrawal of a cannabis facility permit in a neighboring area, which could potentially influence Morris Township’s own cannabis facility plans. One council member noted that the neighboring town had revoked approval for a facility already under construction on Ridgedale Avenue. This development opens the possibility for Morris Township to reconsider its own zoning regulations for cannabis facilities. The council member suggested that if Morris Township could expedite its own approval process, it might secure a strategic advantage in the local cannabis market.
In addition to these discussions, resolutions for various site plans and variance relief were approved. One notable approval was for a major site plan and bulk variance relief for signage at the Mars Marketplace. The resolution included conditions such as limiting the duration of temporary signs to six months and restricting illumination to 30 minutes past store closing times.
Another resolution involved amendments to the general development plan and site plan for Red Bull Arena. Conditions for approval included on-site loading restrictions, noise audits, and compliance with dark sky lighting regulations. The council emphasized the importance of these conditions to mitigate potential disturbances to nearby residents.
The council also addressed a minor subdivision application for a property on Staright Drive, which included variances for lot widths and steep slope disturbances. Conditions for approval involved tree removal, stormwater drainage easements, and shared driveway deed restrictions.
The meeting concluded with updates on the legislative committee’s activities and an open floor for miscellaneous questions. One council member inquired about any new developments regarding the township’s master plan. However, it was noted that the immediate focus remains on addressing affordable housing requirements and other pressing legislative matters.
Donna J. Guariglia
City Council Officials:
Jeffery R. Grayzel, Mark J. Gyorfy, William “Bud” Ravitz, Siva S. Jonnada
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
08/19/2024
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Recording Published:
08/29/2024
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Duration:
22 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Morris County
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Towns:
Morris
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