The transition of leadership was a focal point as the previous chairperson, Dave Kaplan, stepped down. Lor Rag was nominated and unanimously elected as the new chairperson. The board acknowledged the contributions of past chairs Bob Iracane and Dave Kaplan and expressed appreciation for Lor Rag’s acceptance of the role.

One of the most discussions involved H Associates Incorporated, which sought final site plan approval for a truck terminal on Edwards Road. The applicant was represented by Thomas J. Vogal, with testimony provided by site plan engineer Eric Keller and professional land use planner Christine Cfone. Keller detailed the progress since the preliminary site plan approval in 2018, noting that the construction began in early 2023 and was completed earlier in the year. He confirmed that the construction was in line with the approved site plans, with only minor deviations.

Keller elaborated on the site’s primary use for truck parking, which could also accommodate mixed uses of truck and car parking. He discussed the minor subdivision of land to the Morris County Municipal Utilities Authority and the necessary permits, including a flood hazard permit from the Department of Environmental Protection. The discussion also covered the office trailer on the site, which had been granted a variance for its size. Although the approved size was 500 square feet, the constructed trailer measured 320 square feet. Keller asserted that this deviation was minor and did not substantially affect the site’s functionality.

A point of contention arose regarding the flexibility of the site’s configuration to accommodate future tenants without needing to return to the board for amendments. The board’s professionals debated the implications of this request, emphasizing the need for administrative oversight to manage any disputes related to operational changes. The board confirmed that the applicant would not be permitted to store hazardous materials on the site, referencing existing conditions in the resolution prohibiting such activities. Ultimately, a resolution was framed, and the board unanimously approved the final major site plan for the truck terminal and the variance for the smaller facility.

Another application was from Charlotte Hogan and Timothy McCall, who requested approval for a two-story addition and a screened-in porch on Hill Singer Road. The board confirmed that the proposed addition would align with the existing roofline. With no objections from the audience, the board framed a resolution to grant the C variance for the construction, and the motion received unanimous support.

Frank and Denise Petrino sought approval for a new air conditioning unit to replace an old one that had been in place for 36 years. The unit would be installed in the same location, leading to no objections from the board. John Thomas presented a similar request for an air conditioning unit, explaining that the previous unit was too close to the property line. The board found this request minimal and voted in favor.

Stewart Freed addressed the board with application 2454, seeking to install a mini-split air conditioning system due to health issues exacerbated by the heat. Despite being slightly closer to the property line than permitted, the board approved the application. Alfred Figaroa presented application 2439 to replace an existing shed and install a six-foot-high fence. The board supported the application, noting that it would improve the property and allow for better maintenance.

The board also discussed application 2424 from Charlotte Hogan and Timothy McCall for an addition to their home. The applicants emphasized the need for improved safety and visibility within their small home due to a growing family. The addition would remain within impervious coverage requirements, although it required a variance for building coverage. The board acknowledged the minimal nature of the variance and approved the application.