Bernards Zoning Board Mulls Variances and Site Plans

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Bernards Zoning Board extensively deliberated on a series of variance applications and site plans that could impact the local community’s landscape. The meeting’s focal point centered on the River Walk Village LLC’s application, seeking to alter conditional use requirements for office spaces and obtain bulk variance relief for signage, which prompted a discussion about the township’s retail and leasing trends and its master plan.

Bridgewater Board Debates Impact of New Construction on Historic Neighborhood

Overview: The Bridgewater Planning Board’s recent meeting delved into a proposed subdivision and construction project on Chestnut Street, which raised concerns over drainage, lot coverage, and neighborhood character. The applicant, represented by attorney Michael Silbert, sought variance relief to construct a single-family dwelling on an undersized lot and requested subdivision approval due to the common ownership of the adjacent lot. The project brought forth extensive discussion about the responsibility of maintaining drainage infrastructure and the impact of the new construction on the surrounding area’s water table and existing springs.

Watchung Hills School Board Tentatively Agrees on Union Contracts

Overview: The Watchung Hills School Board recently reached a tentative agreement with the teachers’ and staff unions, signaling progress in ongoing negotiations. This development was among several topics at the latest board meeting, including the discussion of equity policies, the formation of a potential policy committee, strategic planning, and a regionalization feasibility study.

Franklin Committee Approves McDonald’s and School Building Renovations

Overview: The Franklin Historic Preservation Advisory Committee recently approved several applications, including significant architectural changes to a local McDonald’s and the construction of a multi-purpose building at a school. These approvals mark notable changes within the community’s landscape and were among the topics discussed at the meeting.

Franklin Sewerage Authority Addresses Infrastructure Challenges

Overview: The Franklin (Somerset County) Sewerage Authority Committee recently convened to address several significant infrastructure challenges, including ongoing projects and financial matters. The committee prioritized discussions on the infiltration of clean water into the sewer system, notably a fire line break at the old FNF food building, and the implications of this for the Authority’s operations. A financial report was presented, highlighting the current state of finances, including receipts, outstanding balances, penalties, and expenditures. The committee also examined various projects such as the Somerset Street Pump Station rehabilitation, the Brookline Avenue sewer area Rehabilitation, and the Commerce Drive Pump Station project. The meeting concluded with the adoption of resolutions related to project contracts and bid approvals.