The meeting commenced with Chairwoman Cynthia Schaefer overseeing proceedings. The first major topic addressed was the enduring case of Cheryl and Vincent Bernetti. Their application, filed under BOA case number 02-2025, sought a C variance to allow the construction of an inground pool. This pool would infringe upon a 15-foot setback and exceed the allowed 20% maximum hard surface area. The application has been pending for approximately five years, primarily due to unresolved stormwater management concerns affecting neighboring properties.

During the meeting, the board addressed the need for the applicants to submit an extension request by the following week to retain their application status, as they planned to present their case at the April 2, 2026, meeting. Cheryl Bernetti acknowledged a previous misunderstanding regarding the timeline for the extension request. She explained that the delay was chiefly due to several stormwater issues and the need for an environmental expert to evaluate comments from the board engineer concerning wetlands in the area.

The board attorney highlighted the importance of complying with the 21-day rule, requiring all necessary submissions by March 12, 2026. This guideline aimed to ensure that all documents were reviewed in time for the April hearing. The urgency to resolve the matter was emphasized, urging the applicants to maintain consistent communication with their engineer, Jim Hill, to address any revisions needed based on the wetlands report.

Following the Bernetti case, the board turned to the application for DCX Stock Rowan Urban Renewal LLC, also known as Restaurant Depot. This application involved a C variance for signage that exceeded the maximum allowed square footage and area facing a road. Initially scheduled for discussion at this meeting, the application was deferred to the March 19, 2026, meeting. This postponement allowed the applicant time to submit necessary materials by February 26, 2026, without requiring further public notice.

A point of contention in the DCX Stock Rowan Urban Renewal case was the classification of the business operation, as it directly influenced parking space requirements. The board noted that the applicant’s attorney seemed uncertain about whether the operation was considered a warehouse or a distribution center. Board members suggested that either the applicant or someone with firsthand knowledge should testify at the next hearing to clarify the nature of the business.

The meeting also addressed an application from Lewis Pastana Hernandez and Margarita Pastana seeking a time extension to submit a complete site plan. Originally due by January 31, 2025, the board discussed extending the deadline to March 31, 2026. This extension aimed to ensure compliance with conditions related to landscaping and parking plans stipulated in the original resolution. The board unanimously approved the motion to modify the deadline, acknowledging the applicants’ efforts to fulfill submission requirements.

Bington Road Realty LLC’s request for a 90-day extension to obtain final site plan signatures was the final application discussed. Initially due by February 6, 2026, the board debated the appropriateness of a 60 versus a 90-day extension. Ultimately, the board approved the 90-day extension, recognizing the potential for unforeseen issues during the review process and the applicant’s need to proceed with construction plans.

The board briefly touched on the agenda for the following meeting, scheduled for February 19, 2026, which included the Lowe’s application regarding outdoor storage—a matter characterized as more extensive than a previous Tractor Supply application. Plans for the Flemington Family Partnership were confirmed for discussion at the April 16 meeting, with emphasis on replacing previous plan versions.