One notable matter concerned a proposal by a resident, referred to as “Miss H,” to build a single-family home on a non-conforming lot. The property, situated on a slope across Lakeside Drive, presented several challenges, including proximity to a dam, floodway delineation, wetlands, and state regulations. Miss H, along with an engineer surveyor named Kurt, provided detailed testimony on the property’s narrowness and the need to stay outside the repairan buffer. The board members, including Board Engineer Mike Vreeland, expressed skepticism about the feasibility of building on the property, citing concerns over potential flooding and the difficulties associated with the permitting process. Despite the appeal of the property’s location near a lake and stream, the board was reluctant to grant the variances required for the project, emphasizing a preference to minimize such exceptions.

Another topic was the proposed renovation to accommodate Laura Aquino’s 88-year-old mother, involving the extension of the existing house, conversion of a garage to living space, and construction of a new detached garage. The project faced challenges due to the removal of a barn, which had unforeseen impacts on planning and zoning compliance, particularly affecting the property’s floor area ratio. The board grappled with the variances required for the project and the potential impact on the neighborhood. Aquino and her architect, Mr. Primal, justified the renovations as necessary for her mother’s living needs, stressing that the barn’s demolition was integral to the project’s progression. The board members sought further details and clarifications regarding the project’s design and adherence to zoning requirements, acknowledging the complexities of the case.

Discussions also centered on a proposed new garage and rear addition to a home, with the board inquiring about the existing curb cut, driveway pitch for drainage, and the potential impact of the driveway’s proximity on a neighbor’s property. Concerns were raised about the visual impact and loss of privacy for the neighbor, prompting ongoing discussions about possible modifications to the plans, including the addition of a planting buffer. The applicant confirmed that the proposed driveway would feature a curb to protect the neighbor from runoff, and the existing nonconformity of the driveway’s width would remain unchanged.

Moreover, the meeting touched on the historical context of the Oomens Van Houten Homestead established in 1797, as the board reviewed plans for a renovation and addition to a garage on the property. The proposed addition was designed to provide grade-level living space for a resident who may become non-ambulatory. The board considered the setbacks, zoning requirements, and impact on neighboring properties, with one member suggesting modifications to the pitch of the roof to reduce the mass of the structure. The applicant clarified the need for the proposed pitch to allow for easier movement within the space.

A issue arose when deliberating on a landscaping buffer between two properties. The property owner was hesitant to commit to the buffer, citing costs and questioning the obligation to do so. The board stressed that their decision would influence the consideration of the variance relief sought, eventually stipulating that the property owner would plant either Green Giant Arborvitae or Leyland Cypress to enhance screening between the properties.

Administrative items handled with unanimous decisions included the oath of office for board members, the re-election of officers, and the appointments of professionals. Michael A. Sirico was re-elected as chairman, Melissa Bergen as vice chair, and Joe Deliso as secretary. The board welcomed Larry Cali as the new board attorney, reaffirmed Michael Vreeland as the board engineer, and Ed Snieckus as the board planner. The bylaws, last adopted in 2018, were reviewed and approved for the current year, and the meeting schedule for 2024 was adjusted for the November meeting due to Veterans Day.