The township planner began by explaining the significance of the master plan, which serves as a critical guiding document and is required to be updated every ten years. The current draft addresses numerous elements including land use, housing, economic development, sustainability, and open space, all informed by extensive community input.

The planner highlighted that the draft master plan was developed through a series of regular meetings with a subcommittee, community workshops, and a public input survey. The survey received responses from approximately 420 participants, representing over 3% of Little Falls’ population. Notably, 93% of respondents were residents, with a substantial portion emphasizing the importance of revitalizing the downtown area to attract businesses.

A demographic analysis within the plan revealed shifts in the township’s population, noting an increase in the Gen Z demographic due to the local university’s presence. Alongside this, there was also an aging population, presenting unique planning challenges. The draft plan outlines six major goals aimed at preserving the residential character of neighborhoods while promoting positive development and economic growth.

The planner detailed existing conditions needing attention, such as the revitalization of the Newark-Pompton Turnpike Corridor and downtown economic development. The necessity to eliminate outdated zoning boundaries was also emphasized. Protecting flood hazard areas, particularly along the Passaic River, emerged as a consensus priority, with recommendations for stabilizing riverbanks, upgrading water systems, and ensuring critical facilities have backup generators.

A significant portion of the township’s land is residential, leading to a call for reviewing and revising codes to reflect modern uses and promote development. Recommendations included creating a safe and efficient transportation system to enhance mobility and connectivity throughout Little Falls. This included improving pedestrian and cyclist safety on Main Street and introducing guidelines to enhance walking and biking conditions.

Economic development goals focused on enhancing the downtown area as a civic and economic hub, leveraging underutilized properties to create vibrant community spaces. Sustainability goals aligned with state climate change initiatives, promoting renewable energy resources and energy efficiency. Recommendations included implementing green stormwater infrastructure, additional electric vehicle charging stations, and incentivizing energy-efficient building practices.

The master plan draft will be officially presented at a public hearing on October 3rd, allowing further discussion and input from residents.

In addition to the master plan presentation, the board reviewed an application from Big Shine Energy for installing solar panels on an existing billboard. The application required a variance due to its unique classification—a conditionally permitted use in all districts but one that didn’t fit neatly into existing categories of ground-mounted or roof-mounted installations. The board approved the application unanimously after a detailed presentation and discussion.

The board also discussed an amended site plan for 198 North Pompton Turnpike, involving significant site improvements. Public concerns were raised regarding the height of buildings, traffic congestion, drainage issues, and rodent activity, with assurances provided that the project would address these concerns. The board approved the amended site plan.