0:20The most notable topic of the meeting was the board’s examination of public hearing notice procedures and the push towards digital transparency. The board proposed that documents related to upcoming applications be made available online 10 days before meetings, as opposed to the current practice of only having them at Borough Hall. This move aims to adapt to modern digital standards and improve accessibility for residents. The chair acknowledged the logistical challenges of posting large-format plans online and suggested that applicants submit a zip drive alongside hard copies. An architect present queried why PDFs weren’t accepted, highlighting a gap between the board’s procedures and current professional practices. The conversation touched on the feasibility of digital links or cloud storage alternatives to facilitate document submissions.

A strong voice in favor of digital submissions came from an audience member who identified as the chairman of a Planning and Zoning Board elsewhere. He emphasized transparency and the community’s right to review documents thoroughly before meetings. He urged the board to prioritize serving the community over developers, advocating for a checklist that includes digital file requirements to streamline the submission process. Board members expressed a collective interest in improving efficiency and accessibility.

14:47In other business, the board reviewed a variance application for a residential addition on New York Avenue, owned by Robert and Eva West. The application sought a variance for building coverage, increasing from 33.6% to 37%, exceeding the permitted 35%. The architect representing the Wests explained that the addition would match the existing structure and that the undersized lot of 2,597 square feet presented unique challenges. The board scrutinized the proposal, focusing on the existing pergola and its impact on coverage calculations. Questions arose about the rationale for not considering a second story, with clarifications provided regarding existing windows and other structural constraints.

The board ensured that existing non-conformities were documented without requiring new variances, emphasizing the importance of adhering to zoning ordinances while addressing the homeowners’ needs. The discussions included a careful review of the fence heights and property line orientations. The architect confirmed that any future changes to the existing fences would need to adhere to zoning laws.

31:47Further deliberations centered on another application involving a property with existing non-conformities, focusing on lot dimensions and building coverage. The board discussed stormwater management solutions, given Bradley Beach’s ongoing issues with water runoff. A suggestion was made to install a small wet well to manage roof leaders, diverting runoff from the street. The board acknowledged the borough’s previous investments in perforated systems to mitigate water issues, emphasizing the necessity of addressing water management in the application review.

The meeting allowed for public comment, where a neighbor of the applicants expressed support, noting their positive contributions to the community. The board discussed the variances in detail, ultimately approving the application unanimously. Members appreciated the applicants’ efforts to minimize additional variances and considered the proposal a modest request that aligned with responsible development goals while addressing water runoff challenges.