Somerville Zoning Board Approves Historic Building’s Restaurant Renovation

Overview: The Somerville Zoning Board recently approved the renovation of a historic building for a new restaurant and bar, amidst discussions on a range of topics from parking spaces to the oversight of historic renovations. The high-end renovation project is set to include a mezzanine for additional dining, a centrally located bar, and jazz music performances. This decision came alongside the approval of another application seeking a parking space reduction for a residential property.

Ocean Zoning Board Debates Impact of New Residential Development

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Ocean (Monmouth County) Zoning Board examined a significant proposal by Memo Investments for the construction of an 11-unit residential building on Mammoth Road. The issues centered around the project’s compliance with zoning regulations, affordable housing requirements, traffic and parking impact, and the provision of additional visitor parking. The board also discussed necessary variances for height, setback, and other site-specific considerations, with the applicant highlighting the development’s alignment with community benefits, including affordable housing.

Pompton Lakes Zoning Board Approves Development Project

Overview: The Pompton Lakes Zoning Board meeting culminated in the approval of a long-discussed development project, addressing concerns over stormwater management, lighting, and the contentious installation of a fence. The project, which has been in the pipeline since as early as 2017, required the board to grant a few variances, including those related to impervious coverage, steep slope disturbance, parking setback, and the height of a retaining wall. The approval came with conditions, including the installation of an operation and maintenance manual for the stormwater system, recorded with the deed, and a commitment to the installation of Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations.

Jacksonville Beach Board Rejects Driveway Variance Request

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Jacksonville Beach Board of Adjustment, a variance request for increased lot coverage to accommodate a circular driveway and pool decking for a single-family dwelling was denied. The applicant, Emily Pierce, sought to increase the lot coverage from the permitted 35% to 39.7%. The board expressed skepticism regarding the hardship claimed by the applicant, primarily questioning the necessity and timing of the changes made to the driveway design.

Summit Zoning Board Postpones Key Cases Due to Incomplete Board

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Summit City Zoning Board, chaired by Joseph Steiner, the board postponed decisions on two significant cases due to an incomplete board, which fell short of the required number to vote on D variance requests. The cases of Thomas John’s Holding and Morris Avenue were each deferred to future dates, with the applicants’ consent to waive the board’s time to act.