The primary focus of the meeting was the proposed expansion of the mausoleum at St. Bernard’s cemetery, located on Route 28. The addition aims to provide more space for caskets and cremation options. The project is designed to include granite veneer exteriors, maintaining consistency with the existing structures, and promises minimal changes to the site’s current operations.

A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to discussing the environmental and aesthetic implications of the proposed expansion. The board examined issues related to drainage and the visual impact on neighboring properties, notably the adjacent golf course. Concerns were raised regarding how stormwater runoff would be managed, with the applicant’s representatives detailing plans to install dry wells to handle runoff from the new structure. Adjustments to the drainage plan were made to address concerns from the golf club.

The deliberations also highlighted the need for a rear yard setback variance. The proposed structure requires a setback of approximately 41.64 feet from the property line, less than the 150 feet mandated by the R40 Zone regulations. The variance was deemed necessary due to site constraints, and the applicant’s planner, Mr. Barry, argued that the project promotes public welfare and is an accessory use to a place of worship, thereby justifying the variance under a D3 conditional use framework.

A key aspect of the meeting was addressing the visual impact of the addition. The golf club representatives expressed concerns over the potential for the building’s height and retaining walls to obstruct views, potentially detracting from the course’s aesthetics. The board discussed potential solutions, such as enhanced landscaping and screening, to mitigate these visual concerns. While some board professionals believed screening could be effective, others were skeptical about its ability to fully address the issues raised by the golf club.

Discussions included the removal and replacement of seven trees to maintain the site’s landscape, with plans to work collaboratively on a comprehensive replanting strategy. The absence of exterior lighting was also confirmed, aligning with the community’s desire to preserve the area’s character.

Public comments played a role in the proceedings, with input from the golf club and other community members highlighting the importance of considering the project’s wider impacts.

As the meeting drew to a close, the board expressed unanimous support for the project, citing its minimal impact on traffic and the public benefit of enhancing the cemetery’s facilities. Members highlighted the project’s potential to meet community needs while respecting the character of the surrounding area. The board also acknowledged the procedural challenges of managing multiple applications within a single meeting, particularly in light of last-minute cancellations by other applicants. This led to discussions about the need for potential penalties for such cancellations.