Residents Lori and Anthony Le Perry voiced their concerns about a property for sale on Foothill Road, fearing that its purchase could lead to the extension of Orchard Street, a dead-end cul-de-sac where they have lived for many years. They emphasized the potential traffic and safety risks this extension could create, citing the absence of sidewalks and existing drainage issues. Their concerns were echoed by Frank Rashelle, another resident, who worried about the impact on property values and neighborhood safety.

The zoning board clarified that any proposal to extend roads would need to be submitted to the Bridgewater Township Council, as the board serves a quasi-judicial role and cannot offer preliminary opinions on properties not currently under application. Residents were encouraged to stay informed and involved in the event of future development proposals, although no decisions regarding the property were made during the meeting.

Following public comments, the board approved an extension for Chimney Rock Self Storage LLC, which sought to extend the approval period for its site plan due to material pricing volatility and supply chain issues. This marked the first of three possible one-year extensions allowed under municipal land use laws.

Attention then shifted to Garden Oak Specialties, a business operating on Route 22 West. The board discussed a proposal to enhance the site by replacing outdated structures and adding improvements such as a stormwater management system, lighting, and a paved parking area. The business, which sells sheds and yard items, is a pre-existing non-conforming use in the C3 zoning district, necessitating a variance for these upgrades.

Representatives for Garden Oak Specialties testified that the improvements aim to upgrade the site’s functionality and appearance without expanding its use. The board considered whether a D1 or D2 variance would be appropriate, ultimately leaning towards a D2 variance. The enhancements were portrayed as necessary for compliance with current zoning codes, with a planner arguing they would beautify the property and generate economic benefits.

Board members expressed concerns about accessibility, particularly the lack of barrier-free access to the second floor, and debated the classification of U-Haul services offered on-site. The applicant confirmed that U-Haul trucks were part of the business, and discussions continued on ensuring that the trucks were parked legally within property boundaries.

Another application discussed was for a proposed climate-controlled self-storage facility on Miltown Road by Non Reality Holdings LLC. The applicant sought variances due to the facility’s non-permitted status in the C3 zone and its planned four-story construction, which exceeds the allowed floor area ratio.

Architectural testimony was provided, detailing plans for a building featuring three above-grade levels and a basement, with a glass façade and roll-up doors for ground floor access. Board members raised questions about the practicality of the design, accessibility, and the visual impact of the roll-up doors. The applicant was asked to provide further evidence of demand for such units and to consider more aesthetically pleasing alternatives for the doors.

The proposed design also included extensive surveillance and security measures to prevent unauthorized use of the storage units, emphasizing customer convenience and compliance with zoning requirements. The board discussed the need for further clarification on unit sizes, traffic impacts, and building materials, with a request for additional renderings to illustrate the building’s height relative to the surrounding area.