03:42The central focus of the meeting was the application by American Outdoor Advertising for amended site plan approval to relocate a static billboard on Brickyard Road. The original approved location faced complications due to tree obstructions, leading to a proposed new placement closer to Brickyard Road. A representative for the applicant confirmed that necessary approvals from the New Jersey Turnpike Authority and the Colonial Pen Pipeline Company had been obtained for the new location.

53:09The board scrutinized the application, highlighting the township’s ordinance that permits a maximum height of 50 feet for billboards. Although the proposed billboard would be positioned at 54.4 feet above the New Jersey Turnpike due to land elevation, the actual structure height remains at 47 feet, adhering to the township’s regulations. The board granted a design waiver to accommodate the elevation discrepancy. The applicant assured compliance with spacing regulations, confirming that the site does not exceed the limit of four billboards per linear mile on either side of the turnpike.

32:04The discussion also touched on construction logistics and environmental considerations. The applicant clarified that mats would be used during construction to avoid additional stone placement. Additionally, the board addressed concerns about stormwater management, with assurances that the new site elevation would not exacerbate stormwater issues. While landscaping had been part of a previous application, it was not deemed mandatory for the current proposal, given the billboard’s lower visibility from Brickyard Road.

01:19:13In parallel, the meeting took an emotional turn as a board member announced their resignation, citing personal reasons such as retirement plans and family milestones. The departing member expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and leaving a lasting positive impact on the community. Their resignation prompted tributes from fellow board members, who acknowledged the individual’s contributions and mentorship. The board highlighted the member’s professionalism and the indelible mark they left on the town, praising their leadership and commitment as difficult to replicate.

01:32:50As the board moved to address leadership transitions, nominations for a new chair and vice chair were made. The nominations received swift consensus and were accepted without opposition. Additionally, the board discussed the need for a representative for the Development Review Committee, with a member volunteering to step in temporarily.

58:21The meeting also covered the Historic Preservation Commission’s proposed amendments to the master plan. The commission suggested eliminating a 200-foot historic buffer area and adjusting the historic district’s boundaries, incorporating properties based on their visibility from Main Street. The board deliberated on the rationale behind property inclusions and exclusions, with the commission providing detailed explanations for their decisions. The proposed changes aim to differentiate between contributing and non-contributing historic resources, seeking to alleviate residents’ concerns about property restrictions.

01:15:40Furthermore, the board briefly addressed the expiring contract with PSENG for selective herbicide application within riparian zones. They emphasized the need to renew the contract and ensure the Environmental Commission was informed, considering past changes to the riparian zone’s width.