The proposed development on Charlotte Drive is set to include a restaurant with 50 seats, a banquet hall for up to 100 guests, and a rooftop bar accommodating 30 patrons. Central to the discussion was the project’s compliance with zoning regulations, particularly the proposed lot coverage of 79.4%, which far exceeds the permitted maximum of 25% for the zone. This reduction from an initial proposal of 88.9% was noted, yet concerns persisted that the coverage could lead to inadequate landscaping and traffic flow challenges.

Parking remained a primary concern, with the project requiring 51 spaces to meet ordinance standards. The plans initially proposed 51 spaces, including adjustments made for state electric vehicle credit. However, there was skepticism about the practicality of these calculations, especially during peak times, such as weekends, prompting discussions about implementing valet services to manage vehicle traffic. The applicant’s representative argued that valet service could alleviate parking congestion, but further details on operations and potential overflow plans were deferred.

In addition to parking, drainage and stormwater management were discussed at length. The project, classified as minor under the current stormwater control ordinance, is set to include an underground detention basin to manage runoff from the new parking area and roof. The design aims to prevent flooding of neighboring properties, although no percolation studies had been conducted by the time of the meeting. Suggestions for maintenance plans and township oversight were made, emphasizing the importance of addressing potential drainage issues that could arise post-construction.

Community members voiced their opposition and concerns during the public comment session. Residents like Tom Horvath questioned the adequacy of parking plans and the potential need for additional variances if overflow parking utilized another commercial property. Atul Dargy highlighted issues related to stormwater management, seeking reassurances that the development would not exacerbate existing runoff problems.

The board’s discussions also extended to the site’s proximity to residential areas, with concerns about the visual and noise impact on the neighborhood. The applicant proposed installing a new six-foot-high solid PVC fence along the southern property line and implementing landscaping to mitigate these impacts. Lighting plans were scrutinized to minimize spillover onto adjacent properties, with recommendations to adjust fixture heights and durations.

Despite the applicant’s assurances and proposed modifications, the board and residents expressed apprehensions about the development’s scale and its alignment with the existing neighborhood character. The meeting concluded with a decision to adjourn and reschedule further discussions for January 13, 2026, focusing on appointing a new date to continue the hearing.

In addition to the Charlotte Drive project, the board addressed a separate application for residential improvements on Carterette Road. This application, involving a ranch-style house with existing nonconformities due to lot size and frontage, required bulk variance relief for a garage extension. Board members raised concerns about drainage and potential water runoff issues, with residents like Kurt Lynhammer expressing fears that the development might worsen existing conditions. The board emphasized the need for effective mitigation strategies and collaboration with professionals to address these concerns.