The board’s deliberations on modifying the approval process for conforming signs underscored efforts to streamline operations for business owners. A procedural change now allows conforming signs to bypass the ARB and go directly to the zoning official for approval. This adjustment aims to mitigate delays previously encountered by business owners seeking sign approvals. The board debated whether the ARB’s aesthetic oversight was necessary for conforming signs, considering the potential for subjective judgments to impede business activities. A member highlighted the ARB’s historical role in maintaining the character of Main Street, emphasizing the need for any signage to uphold the district’s visual and historical standards. Ultimately, the board affirmed that the zoning official could approve conforming signs, with the planning board retaining ultimate authority.

The board also discussed the necessity of reverting to a system where the planning board would continue to provide oversight. Concerns about the existing fee structure for zoning applications were addressed, with a proposal to integrate the fees into the land use ordinance. A motion was made to send the revised draft ordinances for both signage and fence regulations to the council for review.

Another notable topic was the proposed modernization of the compliance checklist, which had remained unchanged for over two decades. The current requirement for applicants to submit 13 paper copies of applications was deemed outdated. The board expressed a consensus to transition towards digital submissions, particularly in PDF format, to reduce paper waste and streamline the application process. The goal is to introduce an ordinance by title during the second meeting of November, with recommendations to be sent to the governing body by the next meeting.

Amendments to the fence ordinance also drew attention, with discussions focusing on reducing the setback requirement for corner properties from 50 feet to 25 feet. There was a call for the ARB to report back to the Planning Board on conditions set by the ARB to ensure comprehensive evaluations. Concerns were raised about the ARB’s authority potentially being limited to the Special Improvement District (SID). The board suggested clarifying the ordinance to extend the ARB’s authority throughout the borough, addressing applications that may arise outside the SID.

The board’s dialogue with the ARB highlighted procedural changes, particularly the transition of responsibilities from one zoning officer to another. The ARB’s current practice of reviewing applications via email was discussed, with an emphasis on maintaining an efficient process that supports timely development projects. A proposal was made to eliminate the ARB fee in favor of a zoning application fee, simplifying the financial burden on property owners.

Additionally, the Board of Education’s anticipated presentation of plans before a referendum was postponed. The board decided it was unnecessary to review incomplete plans and would wait for fully engineered site plans post-referendum. The emphasis was on not overburdening the board with preliminary concepts that may change based on the referendum’s outcome.