10:48The meeting’s primary focus was the Pepin family’s application for variances to renovate their historic home, built in the 1860s. The Pepins, represented by architect Bill Giddings, presented their case for modernizing their home while preserving its architectural integrity. The proposed renovations included extending the kitchen by six feet to improve functionality and adding a mudroom, with plans to convert the existing mudroom into a sunroom for better visibility of their backyard. These changes were aimed at updating outdated wiring and addressing safety concerns for the family’s young children.

09:14Giddings emphasized the importance of maintaining the historical character of the home. The renovation plans involved rebuilding elements in a style consistent with the original architecture, such as adding a new porch and making modifications to the back of the house. However, the existing positioning of the house, with three front yards, complicated the design and necessitated variances. The proposed porch would be eight feet from the property line, compared to the current 4.25 feet, requiring a variance. Additionally, the kitchen’s existing corner, at 14.3 feet, prompted discussions on potential variance needs.

Board members engaged in a discussion about the architectural integrity of the renovations, the variances, and their impact on the surrounding area. Giddings provided context by comparing the proposed setbacks to neighboring properties, including one porch only 1.5 feet from the property line. He also highlighted the necessity of a practical basement entry, which was challenging due to the house’s configuration.

21:17The second significant topic was the application for variances related to the pool fence, which required updates to meet current code standards. The existing chain link fence, installed in 1980, no longer complied with regulations due to low latches and gates that opened both ways. The homeowners requested a variance to install a six-foot high wooden fence along the property line, preserving the wooded tree line essential for privacy. This height exceeded the ordinance requirements, which stipulate fences in front yards be no taller than five feet and 50% open.

35:13A neighboring property owner, identified as Alex, supported the plan, acknowledging the Pepins’ efforts to communicate and involve her in their renovation plans. She appreciated their thoughtfulness and believed the changes would benefit the community while respecting Cranbury’s historical preservation ethos.

37:39The board members explored the need for variances due to the proposed fence’s height and opacity, which did not conform to existing regulations. Discussions included maintaining as much mature landscaping as possible to avoid damaging existing vegetation. A condition was suggested to include plantings six feet high to cover the fence on the Wesley Place side.

Ultimately, the board unanimously approved the variance requests for both the home renovation and the pool fence. A procedural question was raised regarding the timeline for submitting permits, as the Pepins aimed to complete kitchen renovations by Christmas, highlighting the urgency of their project.