Howell Zoning Board Faces Environmental Concerns in Cemetery Proposal Rejection

Overview: The Howell Zoning Board meeting concluded with the denial of a proposed cemetery project on Adelphia Farmingdale Road, amidst discussions on environmental, traffic, and legal concerns. The board cited significant uncertainties around the environmental impact of the cemetery, particularly relating to groundwater contamination, as the primary reason for their decision. The rejection followed a debate involving expert testimonies, public comments, and legal arguments about the potential adverse effects on the local ecosystem and surrounding community.

Middletown Residents Voice Concerns Over Redevelopment Plans and Road Safety Issues

Overview: The Middletown Town Council meeting centered around a discussion of a proposed Redevelopment investigation study for an area comprising approximately seventy properties, coupled with public concerns about road safety and waste management.

Fair Haven Zoning Board Deliberates Complex Variance Applications Amid Compliance Issues

Overview: At the recent Fair Haven Zoning Board meeting, members grappled with multiple complex variance applications, highlighted by discussions on zoning compliance and lot coverage issues. The session was particularly focused on a proposed 61-square-foot addition to a property on Harvard Road, which stirred debate over existing non-conformities and compliance with local zoning laws. Additionally, a major renovation project for a waterfront property and the implications of maintaining the character of a neighborhood dominated the proceedings.

Ocean (Monmouth County) Shade Tree Commission Discusses Tree Removal for Church Project and Ongoing Urban Forestry Challenges.

Overview: The Ocean Shade Tree Commission meeting focused on significant upcoming tree removals for a church project on Asbury Avenue and broader concerns about urban forestry management, including utility pruning, historical site preservation, and community engagement strategies. The commission addressed the impending removal of approximately 300 trees, primarily small evergreen pines, to make way for construction related to a new French-speaking church. This project, pending zoning board approval, highlighted the township’s challenges with balancing development and environmental preservation.

Residents Urge Ocean Environmental Commission to Tackle Pollution from Construction Activities

Overview: The Ocean Environmental Commission meeting was marked by a discussion on environmental concerns raised by residents over construction activities, particularly in relation to airborne polystyrene particles. This issue, coupled with communication challenges between the commission and the town council, and the planning for upcoming community events like Greenfest, highlighted the need for proactive environmental management and regulatory enforcement in the township.