The board debated the church’s request for a D3 variance due to the property’s failure to meet the minimum lot depth standard, a situation complicated by the presence of an undeveloped paper street. The church also sought several C variances, including adjustments for driveway location and parking space reductions. These variances were largely responses to feedback from the board aimed at increasing the buffer along Shower Drive. One board member suggested that the church should consider involving a police officer to manage traffic during peak service times and the summer camp, noting the potential safety risks for local residents.

Traffic management remained a concern, with discussions focusing on the practical application of traffic studies and the church’s willingness to cooperate with the board in addressing these issues. The board expressed hope that the church would work with them to possibly lift the existing “No Left Turn” restriction at the church’s entrance on Asbury Avenue. This was a proposal that could potentially alleviate traffic bottlenecks and improve safety.

The application included plans for a two-week summer Bible Camp with 100 to 150 attendees, raising further concerns about increased traffic and parking. The church acknowledged the need for permits for outdoor cooking and events, emphasizing compliance with local safety regulations. The board suggested that a more accurate traffic study conducted during peak summer months could better assess the situation, as the current study was completed in June and might not reflect the true traffic dynamics.

The church’s representatives clarified that their kitchen facilities would remain closed to public rentals, maintaining control over the building’s use and ensuring adherence to health regulations. The kitchen would support church-related functions such as the summer camp and affiliated group meetings, including Alcoholics Anonymous.

In addition to traffic, the board scrutinized the building’s architectural and landscape plans. The church presented two options for the building’s exterior: brick or stucco, with the final decision pending budgetary considerations. The board discussed the importance of maintaining visual harmony with the surrounding community and expressed a preference for minimizing light pollution through strategic placement of security lighting.

Public comments further highlighted concerns about the impact of the church’s activities on local noise levels and waste disposal. It was noted that any outdoor events involving amplified sound would require special permits, aligning with local noise ordinances. The board emphasized that the church must prevent any disturbance to the peace of neighboring residents, even though religious organizations may have certain exemptions under municipal code.

The meeting concluded with a decision to carry the application over to the next meeting, scheduled for February 20th. This continuation allows the church time to address the board’s concerns, particularly those related to traffic management and the proposed parking variances.