Bedminster Land Use Board Grapples with Property Use and Historical Preservation

Overview: In a recent Bedminster Land Use Board meeting, members engaged in discussions over the use variance for a property on Lamington Road, proposed to be converted into two residential apartments. The meeting, chaired by Mayor Lawrence F. Jacobs, was marked by debates on zoning compliance, historical preservation, and the impact of potential redevelopment on the local area. The property, with a history of both residential and commercial usage, is situated at the end of the active retail district and presents a unique challenge in balancing development with the maintenance of Bedminster’s historical character.

Bernardsville Board Reviews Development Project

Overview: The Bernardsville Planning Board recently convened to discuss a development project proposed by AR at Bernardsville LLC, which seeks to transform a designated area in need of redevelopment. The redevelopment plan presented by the applicant’s representative includes 68 residential units and approximately 9,200 square feet of commercial space, intended to revitalize the site with modern amenities and pedestrian-friendly spaces.

Watchung Hills School Board Tackles Budget Concerns Amidst Rising Costs and Declining Enrollment

Overview: The Watchung Hills School Board recently convened to address a range of issues, with the upcoming fiscal year’s budget taking center stage. The board tackled the challenges stemming from rising healthcare costs, the loss of federal funds, and the need for maintaining a healthy bottom line amid declining enrollment. Alongside budget deliberations, Superintendent Elizabeth C. Jewett underscored the importance of security in upcoming budget talks and the implications of the area’s demographic shifts on the student population. The meeting also included discussions on the Student Safety and Data System report, ethics training for new board members, and recognition of a staff member’s achievement.

Bernards Zoning Board Approves Multiple Variances Amid Concerns on Property Impacts

Overview: The Bernards Zoning Board convened to address a series of variance requests from local property owners, resulting in the approval of several applications with conditions aimed at mitigating potential neighborhood impacts. Among the decisions were the approval of a small addition to a residence on South Maple Avenue, granting after-the-fact variances for lot coverage and a shed setback on an undersized property, and adjustments to a proposal for a new pool with a patio to ensure compliance with lot coverage limits and setback requirements.

Franklin Township Discusses Historic Preservation and District Boundaries

Overview: The Franklin Township Historic Preservation Advisory Committee convened recently to address several issues surrounding the preservation and oversight of historic structures and districts. Among the topics discussed, the most significant involved the ongoing debate about the definition and boundaries of historic districts, particularly the East Avenue Corridor, and the need for administrative approval for changes to historic properties.