The proposal by Bass River Realty LLC to revamp its recreational offerings at Bass River Sports World was the most notable item discussed. Attorney Paul Tardi presented the petition, noting the need to adapt to changing demographics, with a growing number of younger families visiting the site. The proposed changes involve replacing underused batting and soccer cages with an electric “kitty go-kart track” designed for children aged 7 to 11, a bumper car track, and a storage facility for go-karts. The new attractions are intended to operate with minimal noise, thanks to the electric vehicles, and are expected to maintain the existing physical dimensions and setbacks of the property, which spans approximately 9.9 acres.

The board raised questions about the decline in the use of the current facilities, with local sporting teams and schools no longer utilizing them as they once did. The new facilities, including the go-karts, will operate at a maximum speed of 8 miles per hour, a reduction from the existing go-karts’ 16 miles per hour, with safety features such as seat belts and harnesses included.

During the discussion, some board members expressed concerns about the adequacy of the site’s landscaping. Suggestions were made to enhance the visual appeal of the parking area by adding more greenery, a point which the petitioner acknowledged but defended by highlighting the existing presence of trees and flower beds. Ultimately, the motion to approve the petition was unanimously passed, contingent on maintaining lighting within the site and recognizing the long-standing contribution of the business to the community.

In another significant matter, the board discussed a special permit and variance request from Mark G. Haley and Julie B. Haley, Trustees of the Haley Family Living Trust. The petition involved replacing a pre-existing non-conforming dwelling on Andrina Road with a new home, with considerations for front setback relief. Chris Kelly, representing the petitioners, provided visuals of the proposed home, which would increase in size from 1,500 to 2,300 square feet. The board considered the implications of the size increase and the potential impact on zoning compliance, particularly concerning a studio apartment above the garage.

The board debated the classification of the space above the garage, which included a half bath, and whether it should be considered habitable. Ultimately, the board agreed to a special permit with conditions to limit the property to four bedrooms and prohibit habitable space over the garage. This decision was made in light of community support for the project, with several residents expressing approval during public comments.

The meeting also addressed a variance request for an ice vending machine on a property on Route 28. Attorney Andrew Singer, representing the applicant, explained the need for side setback relief due to the impracticality of placing the machine within six feet of a building. The revised plan included enhanced landscaping and improved public safety access, receiving positive feedback from the board.

Other petitions at the meeting included a special permit for Winfer Ortiz to establish a family daycare on Hoover Road. The board approved the permit with conditions regarding operational hours and outdoor safety measures, following a discussion about the daycare’s setup and future fencing plans. Additionally, Jennifer Estes Martinez’s existing family daycare on Meor Brook Road successfully passed its one-year review, with no complaints from neighbors.