West Windsor Board Tackles Zoning and Historic Preservation

Overview: In a review of local zoning issues, the West Windsor Planning Board addressed a range of concerns about the preservation of community character, especially in the Baran City neighborhood, during their April 17, 2024 meeting. The board focused on non-conforming residential lots, potential legislation for accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and the impact of new constructions on the historic identity of the neighborhood. They also discussed the recently introduced tree ordinance and the role of the Arts Council in community development.

Franklin Planning Board Deliberates on Warehouse Project

Overview: The recent Franklin Planning Board meeting underscored concerns about a proposed warehouse project by Onyx 789 LLC, focusing particularly on traffic impact, site plan variances, and compliance with existing easement agreements. The Board granted a one-year extension to Executive Drive Investments but spent the bulk of the meeting deliberating over the warehouse development’s implications, emphasizing the need for detailed reviews and further information before proceeding.

Southampton Advances Water Protection and Zoning Bylaw Amendments

Overview: In a recent Southampton Planning Board meeting, progress was made on two issues: the advancement of water supply protection zoning bylaws and the amendment of zoning code bylaw table one use regulations. The board unanimously approved an Approval Not Required (ANR) for Robert Coocher and discussed the allocation of a grant for water protection zoning. A public hearing on the proposed changes to the zoning bylaws was also conducted, with the intention to move forward to town meeting for adoption.

Jersey City Planning Board Advances Significant Developments

Overview: The Jersey City Planning Board convened to discuss a series of development proposals and amendments, leading to the approval of several projects that promise to reshape parts of the city. Among the most significant items were the approval of a 10-story mixed-use building, a new four-story residential building on Fairview Avenue, and the amendment of a previously approved site plan to increase residential units at 44 to 46 New Kirk Street. The meeting also saw the approval of a five-story building with affordable housing units on Palisade Avenue and a proposal for a cannabis dispensary by applicant Ronald Elkin, which met with some public opposition. The board tackled these items with detail, focusing on compliance with redevelopment plans, and considering the concerns of community members.

St. Cloud Aims to Streamline Subdivision and Easement Processes

Overview: In a recent St. Cloud Planning Commission meeting, the most development was the discussion and subsequent motion to recommend approval of ordinance number 2024-29 cda2 24-3. This ordinance, which seeks to streamline the processes for easement vacations and final subdivision plats, was a focal point for the commission. With proposed changes that could reduce the timeline for easement vacations by up to 60 days and cut the approval time for final subdivision plats by two to three months, this ordinance represents a considerable shift towards efficiency in the city’s administrative procedures.