A noteworthy item on the agenda was the application from Allendale Rehab and Healthcare on Harlton Road. Due to the requirement of a supermajority vote for approval, the board decided to carry the matter to a later date. Five votes from a full board of seven were necessary for the application to move forward, but only five members were eligible to vote at the time. The applicant’s representatives, therefore, requested a special meeting to ensure the full board could be present. The Board agreed, emphasizing that new notices would be sent to the public to ensure proper notification and adherence to quorum requirements.

The board also considered and approved a resolution for another application, file number 2024 d09, concerning the relocation and installation of a generator on Pearl Court. The resolution, which captured all factual findings and conditions of approval, passed unanimously.

The meeting then moved to public hearings, notably focusing on an application from Craig and Leslie Foster for the installation of a shed on Park Avenue. The vice chair recused herself due to the proximity of her property to the Foster’s residence. Craig Foster testified about the necessity of placing the shed on the right side of their property, citing that the unique layout of their lot would require placing the shed nearly in the center of the yard if setback rules were strictly followed. This placement would not be ideal for either aesthetics or functionality. The board engaged in a discussion about the potential implications of this placement, particularly concerning future developments on Malon. Members raised concerns about the narrowness of the road and its lack of curbs, which could complicate matters if changes were made in the future. After thorough deliberation and humorously suggesting the applicant should bring produce from their garden to illustrate the context of their property use, the board approved the application with conditions to ensure the location would not create future complications.

The board also touched on a historical context related to property dimensions and a right-of-way along Third Street. Concerns were raised about potential easements for utilities and the necessity of maintaining a distance for future sidewalk installations. The applicant clarified plans regarding a fence set back from the right-of-way line, noting discrepancies in prior measurements. Ultimately, the board approved the application with conditions to avoid future issues.

During the public comment section, updates on the community center were provided. The construction progress included the completion of the gym floor, basketball courts, and the installation of a state-of-the-art kitchen. Future plans include a meeting with community organizations to discuss the center’s usage and remaining tasks, such as the installation of a generator. Additionally, a hazard vulnerability study was mentioned, with an emphasis on incorporating the findings into the town’s master plan to address environmental concerns like flooding.

Discussions on affordable housing mandates dominated a portion of the meeting. An attorney with over two decades of experience in affordable housing was introduced to help navigate these complex regulations. The board expressed concerns about the feasibility of accommodating the state-mandated 200 affordable units within Allendale’s limits. The mayor highlighted the town’s stance on compliance, contrasting it with other towns struggling under similar mandates. Concerns were also raised about the potential for municipalities to contest their assigned housing numbers, with deadlines for objections and resolutions mentioned.

The implications of housing developments in neighboring areas, specifically Saddle River, were also discussed. Saddle River’s actions to control inclusionary zoning could impact Allendale due to the proximity of proposed developments. The board noted the potential effects on Allendale and emphasized the need for careful monitoring.

The board briefly discussed deer management, with plans for a meeting with the Division of Fish and Wildlife to address wildlife challenges in the area. Additionally, logistical challenges related to member attendance were addressed. Members expressed difficulties in tracking communications due to the existing email system, with suggestions for alternative methods like group texts to ensure quorum for future meetings.