The board’s decision to approve a variance for a second-story addition on Exit Road was a focal point of the meeting, particularly due to the lot’s undersized nature in the R5 zone. The property owner, whose family has outgrown the existing space, emphasized the necessity for additional living quarters. The house, originally built in 1940, sits on a 9,931 square-foot lot, which is smaller than the required 14,500 square feet for the zone. The proposal included converting a small office on the first floor into a bedroom and modifying a half bath into a full bath to improve accessibility. These changes aim to accommodate the homeowner’s elderly parents, who face difficulties accessing the second floor.

The proposed addition, designed to wrap around the back and right side of the house, seeks variances for both the side yard setback and the floor area ratio (FAR), intending to expand the living space without altering the existing footprint. The adjusted FAR would rise from 27.9% to 32.1%, slightly exceeding the allowable 30% for the property size. Despite the increase, the board acknowledged the unique constraints posed by the lot size and expressed support for the thoughtful nature of the design, which maintains the visual character of the neighborhood. The board’s approval was unanimous, emphasizing the reasonable nature of the request despite the challenging circumstances.

Another prominent discussion involved a residential property characterized by a unique appendage on a skewed lot, leading to misalignment with the property line. The proposed changes involved a second-story addition, which sparked debates among board members regarding building coverage and visual impact. While the proposal aimed to enhance the floor area ratio without exceeding limits, concerns were raised about the potential exacerbation of existing non-conformities. The board acknowledged the applicant’s efforts to create a cohesive look for the property and encouraged design modifications to reduce building coverage.

The meeting also addressed a proposed modification on Bodwell Terrace, where the applicant presented plans for a mudroom, kitchen expansion, and master bedroom addition. The architect, with extensive experience and credentials, outlined the necessity for more space due to the family’s growth and work-from-home arrangements. The proposal included several variances, notably for side yard setbacks, as the property’s dimensions are narrower than typical for the zoning district. Despite exceeding allowable coverage slightly, the board noted that the changes would not alter the street profile, aligning with the township’s master plan goals of preserving neighborhood integrity.

Additionally, the board engaged in discussions about enhancing a residential property by covering an existing deck, which was presented as an environmentally protective measure. The proposal aimed to add 400 square feet of livable space, with assurances that it would not increase population density. The project was described as maintaining the aesthetic character of the house while respecting historical context. The board members expressed general support, recognizing the improvements’ potential to enhance property value and visual consistency with the neighborhood.