The central discussion revolved around the housing element fair share plan amendment, a step following a settlement with Fair Share Housing. The board was informed that an amendment to the redevelopment plan was necessary to facilitate affordable housing on designated properties. The Lidal redevelopment plan was specifically highlighted for its role in enabling affordable housing development. Siobhan Chavan from H2M Architects explained the background of the fourth round affordable housing plan and emphasized the need for minor adjustments to comply with legal requirements. She noted that the settlement agreement increased the affordable units set-aside on certain properties from 10% to 20%, resulting in a surplus beyond the calculated obligations.

Despite opportunities for public comment, no members of the public spoke on the fair share plan. The resolution to adopt the housing fair share plan and amend the master plan passed unanimously. The board also reviewed an ordinance concerning the property on Montclair Avenue, aligning it with the newly adopted master plan amendment, which also received unanimous approval.

In another major decision, the board considered a proposal to convert a historic property on P Avenue into a residential complex. The applicant sought a use variance for a property in a B2 business zone, proposing the conversion of an office building into four one-bedroom and two two-bedroom apartments. The proposal included maintaining the current building footprint while making necessary zoning adjustments. The board scrutinized the proposal’s compliance with zoning regulations, noting deficiencies in setbacks and impervious coverage. The applicant proposed reducing impervious coverage from 77.6% to 66% by increasing green space and making landscaping improvements.

Architect James P. Catillo presented plans for the building conversion, emphasizing the need for ADA compliance and the preservation of the building’s historical character. The board expressed concerns about setbacks and the potential impact on neighboring properties. The applicant’s representative defended the proposal, stating that the existing footprint would remain unchanged and that the design aimed to preserve the building’s aesthetic integrity.

Public comments revealed concerns about the impact of increased residential units on traffic and noise levels, especially given the property’s proximity to a firehouse. A resident highlighted the need for prospective tenants to be informed about potential noise issues. The board acknowledged these concerns, with assurances that lease agreements would address noise advisories.

The board also reviewed operational aspects of the proposed residential complex, including tenant management and the configuration of units. Concerns were raised about the potential misuse of one-bedroom units and the need to include provisions in leases to prevent subleasing. The site plan proposed improvements such as removing unnecessary pavement, adding a barrier-free ramp, and enhancing parking facilities. The plan included the installation of an electric vehicle (EV) charging station, aligning with state regulations for multifamily units.

Planner Nicholas Graviano provided expert testimony supporting the use variance, citing the historical significance of the building and the project’s alignment with the borough’s revitalization goals. He argued that the proposal would improve community welfare by reducing impervious coverage and enhancing accessibility to public transit. Graviano highlighted the scarcity of small residential units in the borough, emphasizing the need to meet housing demands.

The board ultimately approved the proposal with conditions, including compliance with affordable housing requirements and the prohibition of subleasing. The approval emphasized the balance between preserving the property’s historical character and addressing the community’s housing needs.