Summit City Zoning Board Grants Key Approvals Amid Floodplain and Club Renovation Discussions

The Summit City Zoning Board convened on September 4, 2024, addressing a variety of issues, including floodplain regulations, property extensions, and the Beacon Hill Club’s facilities renovation plan. approvals and discussions included extensions for properties affected by mold and flooding, plans for managing stormwater in flood-prone areas, and extensive renovations proposed by the Beacon Hill Club.

Floodplain regulations dominated the meeting, with debate over a proposed garage and carport construction on West End Avenue. The applicants, Ryan Gro and James Fazari, along with their architect, Jim Ramol, provided an overview of their project, which aimed to expand their home while navigating flood zone restrictions. The project included a carport and deck designed to fit within regulatory confines, especially given the nearby stream and flood zone issues. Ramol noted the challenges faced due to the flood zone regulations, emphasizing, “Unfortunately, that part of the flood zone was never really identified,” highlighting the exhaustive and costly nature of the permitting process.

During the public hearing, variances for setbacks and enclosed parking were discussed. Specifically, the left side yard was only 13.08 feet from the property line, requiring a 15-foot variance, and the carport on the right side necessitated a variance for being 8.92 feet from the property line. Concerns about water runoff and drainage were raised, especially following a recent storm on August 18th. The applicants noted minor water accumulation due to old drainage systems but maintained that significant flooding had not been an issue.

Further scrutiny was placed on the drainage plan, with the board emphasizing the need for a review to ensure compliance with both city and NJDEP regulations. The importance of a grading plan was underscored, given the project’s location within a floodplain. The board’s attorney explained the permits by rule process, which allows certain constructions within flood hazard areas to bypass formal applications, provided they meet specific limitations. However, any deviations could lead to enforcement actions by the NJDEP.

The board also approved extensions for multiple properties facing unique challenges. For instance, John received a one-year extension due to delays caused by flooding from an adjacent property. Burke detailed his interactions with city officials and the builder, who finally agreed to remediate the issue by erecting a retaining wall and improving drainage. Despite skepticism about the timeline, the board unanimously approved the extension.

The meeting also featured a significant presentation from Pascal Laland, president of the Board of Trustees at the Beacon Hill Club, regarding proposed renovations to the club’s facilities. Laland plans to modernize the carriage house and Pat’s house, addressing safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency concerns. Notably, the proposed improvements included installing backup generators, upgrading mechanical equipment, and adding private shower stalls in accordance with safe sport guidelines.

Laland emphasized that the renovations would not increase club membership or the intensity of use. The focus was on enhancing the experience for current members and staff. The board inquired about community engagement, and Laland confirmed that neighborhood meetings had been held, resulting in commitments regarding landscaping and skating hours. The board discussed compliance with Title IX and the growing participation of women in sports, with Laland noting that the club hosts annual games for boys and girls hockey teams.

Public comments were solicited, with a resident questioning the enforceability of the proposed conditions of approval. It was clarified that these conditions would be memorialized in a resolution, enforceable by the zoning officer. The resident expressed concern about potential violations of agreed-upon skating hours.

Procedural notes wrapped up the session, with discussions on future meetings and the submission of requests for qualifications (RFQ) for legal, engineering, and planning positions. The board scheduled the next meeting for September 16 and proposed carrying the current application discussion to October 7 without requiring further notice.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.
Mayor:
Elizabeth Fagan
Zoning Board Officials:
Joseph Steiner, Scott Loikits, Tom Ucko, Donald Nelson, Ayman Maleh, Miriam Zahn, Michael Curran, Claire Toth (Alternate I), Alison Chieffo (Alternate II), Jay Fehskens (Alternate III), Paul Cianciulli (Alternate IV), Bob Pawlowski (Council Liaison)

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