The meeting’s focal point was the application from Washington Urban Renewal LLC for the redevelopment of a property on Wiku Avenue. The proposal involves demolishing the existing second-floor office space to construct eight residential units—seven two-bedroom apartments and one one-bedroom apartment—while retaining the first-floor retail space. The site plan also includes repaving and restriping the parking area to accommodate 23 off-street parking spaces, with a provision for two electric vehicle spaces. Each apartment is allocated two parking spaces for use between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., maximizing the shared parking strategy for residential and retail purposes.

A point of contention was the parking strategy. The current configuration of 18 spaces falls short of the required 65 spaces for the proposed residential and existing retail use. The proposal increases available spaces to 21, but this still does not meet the requirement. Concerns were raised about the feasibility of managing parking effectively, especially given Pompton Lakes’ limited space and the site’s three road frontages. The project intends to use nearby municipal parking lots to supplement any shortfall.

Further, the board scrutinized the project’s drainage plan amid concerns about runoff management. The current system directs roof runoff to the parking lot and onto Kfax Avenue. The engineering team proposed channeling runoff into a single pipe leading to an existing inlet on Kfax Avenue.

The meeting also addressed split-zone issues, as the property historically comprised two lots in different zoning classifications. It was clarified that the lots had merged, placing the entire site within the redevelopment district and potentially alleviating zoning concerns. However, some board members questioned whether this interpretation needed further resolution before proceeding.

Architectural and design elements were thoroughly examined, with the project’s architect presenting plans for a two-story renovation, including a new glass-enclosed atrium, elevator for resident accessibility, and distinct facade segments using materials like yellow brick and rain screen composites. The board paid particular attention to ensuring these elements aligned with Pompton Lakes’ aesthetic and functional needs.

The board’s approval included conditions to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations and Municipal Utilities Authority requirements, a developer’s agreement for construction and sidewalk usage, and the stipulation that certain doors remain open at all times. The project also involves meeting affordable housing obligations, with one unit designated for this purpose.

Additionally, the board considered the challenges of maintaining business operations during construction. Joseph Santoro, representing the LLC, expressed a desire to keep tenants in place during renovations, although he acknowledged potential disruptions. Approximately 50% of the parking lot is expected to be occupied by construction supplies, which some members found reasonable given the project’s scope.

Parking and garbage collection logistics were also scrutinized. A smaller garbage truck than the standard 35 feet will be required, and the project must include a no-pets policy in leases. The board underscored the importance of managing these logistical elements to ensure minimal disruption to residents and businesses.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the broader implications of the project for Pompton Lakes, emphasizing the balance between development and maintaining the community’s character. The board expressed a strong commitment to ensuring that redevelopment aligns with the borough’s needs, providing new residential options while supporting existing businesses and enhancing the downtown area’s vitality.