DL Associates, represented by Jonathan CL, introduced the project with witness Lee Longo outlining the history and redevelopment plans for the apartment at the village site affected by fire. Ed O’Brien, the architect, detailed the building’s adherence to historic preservation guidelines and provided explanations on structure, lighting, and square footage. Concerns were raised by a property owner regarding easements and parking, which the board deferred to the engineer’s future testimony.

The board and the public engaged in discussions about a range of issues including fire suppression systems, water supply, and construction specifics such as whether the building would incorporate a basement or be built on a slab. These structural decisions were tied to the necessity for a comprehensive sprinkler system and the Water Company’s ability to provide adequate water supply. The requirement for a hot box from New Jersey American Water was also debated.

Public comments brought to light questions about the building’s classification as residential or commercial, particularly regarding lighting and advertising. Further inquiry from the public led to the architect discussing the site layout, lot size, building footprint, and parking spaces in detail. A witness with expertise in site plan and subdivision engineering provided an in-depth perspective on the project’s configuration, addressing the proposed building’s size, setbacks, and parking.

A variance was necessary due to the proposal including a 75% impervious coverage, exceeding the limit due to a right-of-way dedication loss. Discussions extended to the placement of AC units, a generator, a 6-foot vinyl fence, dumpster enclosure, and landscaping plans. The board scrutinized water management strategies, floor area ratio variance, and positioning of the building, along with lighting plans for parking areas.

The topic of the dumpster’s location became a point of contention, with neighboring property owners expressing concerns about access and the impact on their property. The potential for a shared dumpster location was considered as a solution for efficient garbage collection and access. This led to a deeper debate on the dumpster’s proposed placement and the necessity for a mutually beneficial arrangement.

Parking space placement was another issue, especially in relation to the previous fire. A resident shared photos of the fire damage and raised concerns about the proximity of the proposed parking to the new structure. The board voted to approve the variance for parking and site plan exceptions, with the stipulation that the approval of the Township engineer and additional infrastructure placement were met.