The most significant topic of the meeting was the application by Jeb Foods LLC to upgrade and subdivide their property on Indiana Street. The proposal included the transformation of the existing commercial space into a mixed-use building with commercial use on the first floor and residential apartments on the second. Key issues raised involved the parking requirements and the overall impact on the neighborhood.

Benjamin Aros, the owner of Jeb Foods, testified about the nature of the business operations, emphasizing that the business primarily focuses on wholesale and internet sales of gluten-free specialty food products imported from West Africa. Aros assured the board that the operations do not involve overnight truck storage, and deliveries are managed without affecting the surrounding area.

Architect Robert Coleman presented the design details, explaining that the new building would be a two-story structure with commercial space on the ground floor and residential units above. He elaborated on the materials and design features, including compliance with fire safety regulations and the inclusion of a fire suppression system. Coleman also discussed the use of heat pumps for HVAC needs, which would be discreetly positioned on the roof to maintain the building’s aesthetic.

A point of debate during the meeting was the parking requirements for the new development. The board engineer calculated that 14 parking spaces were necessary for the site, which the applicant contested. The representative argued that the sole employee on-site would not necessitate such a high number of spaces. The board raised concerns about the potential impact of customer visits and delivery operations on parking availability. The applicant clarified that the bakery would operate as a distributor, with scheduled deliveries rather than walk-in customers, and proposed a dedicated loading area within the building to manage these operations without affecting street parking.

The discussion also touched on compliance with handicap parking requirements. While the proposal included one ADA-compliant space, the residential units would not be accessible. Board members expressed concern about how this arrangement would align with compliance standards, emphasizing the need for adequate access for all potential users of the facility.

The testimony of Nicholas Graviano, a licensed professional planner, provided further context on the project’s alignment with the neighborhood and zoning regulations. Graviano described the site’s location in a predominantly residential area and the historical presence of retail and commercial uses. He argued that the proposed changes would enhance the site’s usability and benefit the community by providing off-street parking and eliminating an unusual lot line configuration.

Graviano also addressed the variances required for the project, including those for lot area, depth, setbacks, and parking. He emphasized that the project would promote public health, safety, and welfare by aligning with the township’s regulations and providing a variety of uses that meet community needs. He highlighted the aesthetic improvements the new building would bring, replacing dilapidated structures with a design that aligns more closely with the residential nature of the area.

Board members engaged in a supportive dialogue about the project, with several expressing agreement on its merits. One member noted the potential for affordable housing, while another cautioned that the appeal of new units should consider the broader community impact.

In other business, the board approved a motion to adjourn the matter of calendar number 3431 for the Ukrainian Evangelical Assemblies of God, doing business as Living World Church, which sought permission for overnight truck parking. The applicant requested an adjournment to revise the presentation in light of public input and discussions with staff. The board unanimously approved the adjournment, with guidance provided to the public regarding new notices that would be issued.

Additionally, the board reviewed and approved the resolution for calendar number 3437, presented by Janetta Presley, who intended to erect an 11-foot fence on Morrison Avenue. The resolution was passed unanimously through a roll call vote.