22:46The most notable topic at the meeting was the proposed amendment affecting the Stonebridge community, currently bound by a requirement to provide round-the-clock registered nursing services. The amendment seeks to bring the PRC-2 zone in line with other similar zones, PRC-1 and PRC-3, which do not have such staffing requirements. The proposal is in response to a petition from the Stonebridge Homeowners Association, the only community impacted by this mandate.

15:45Board member discussions centered on the alignment of the amendment with the master plan, which aims to meet the needs of an aging population while maintaining affordability for senior residents. One member pointed out that the proposed changes would allow senior residents, particularly those on fixed incomes, greater discretion over their budgetary decisions. This aligns with the master plan’s objectives by potentially preventing cost increases that could burden residents.

During the public comment segment, Alan Stalber, a resident and board member of the Stonebridge HOA, expressed concern over alternative language suggestions proposed by some residents. He stressed the importance of the council considering the amendment at its upcoming second reading. Jerry Morelli, vice president of the Stonebridge Board, added that the community had assured the township that nursing services would remain unchanged unless a two-thirds majority of residents voted for a change. He emphasized that decision-making should rest with the residents, highlighting the variability in nursing service needs and the potential for future changes.

30:42The Planning Board’s role was to review the amendment for consistency with the master plan, a task it completed by unanimously voting to endorse the ordinance. A motion to support the ordinance was made, seconded, and passed without dissent. The board prepared a resolution to formalize its recommendation to the township council, which will deliberate on the matter further in a public hearing scheduled for May 7, 2025.

07:43Another topic addressed was the memorialization of PB1264-24 for Menllo Route 33 Associates. The board also considered an extension request from Forever Iron Doors, Inc., classified as routine and approved through a voice vote.