Fair Haven Eyes Historic Landmark Designation for Marter Pond

Overview: The Fair Haven Historic Preservation Commission recently convened to deliberate on several initiatives and proposals pertinent to the township’s heritage and historical preservation. Topping the agenda was the potential designation of Marter Pond as a Historic Landmark, a proposal that would not only recognize the historical significance of the local feature but also potentially impact the surrounding community and preservation practices.

Belmar Council Tackles Affordable Housing and Silver Lake Restoration

Overview: The Belmar Borough Council recently convened to address pressing community issues, with discussions centered around affordable housing obligations and the revitalization of Silver Lake. The meeting provided comprehensive insight into the town’s strategies for increasing affordable housing units and detailed an plan for restoring Silver Lake to address environmental concerns and enhance its recreational potential.

Middletown Debates Development and Storm Cleanup Costs

Overview: The Middletown Town Council meeting was dominated by debates over local development projects, the financial burden of police overtime for a presidential campaign event, and the town’s response to storm debris cleanup. Residents expressed their concerns about the potential environmental and community impact of designating a developer for high-density housing, while council members grappled with the town’s financial responsibilities, including the cost of security for a political fundraiser.

Howell Planning Board Advances Shopping Center Renovation

Overview: In a recent Howell Planning Board meeting, discussions centered on a renovation of an existing shopping center, addressing comprehensive site improvements, including stormwater management, landscaping, and parking. The renovation plan, which involves splitting a retail building into four home furnishing or improvement spaces, was met with cooperative dialogue from board members, focusing on resolving concerns related to traffic, parking, and building aesthetics. The board also showed support for variance relief for a proposed HD1 zone development and approved a minor subdivision with ancillary variance and design waiver relief.

Red Bank Zoning Board Approves Residential Conversion

Overview: The Red Bank Zoning Board of Adjustment recently approved the conversion of a vacant commercial space into a residential apartment, despite concerns about the impact on the neighborhood and the small size of the proposed units. The property on Shrewsbury Avenue, which has been challenging to rent out as commercial space, became the focus of a decision during the meeting.