The most notable topic of discussion centered around the application by Barat Sankar, who sought variances to increase the floor area ratio and lot coverage for his residence. The existing three-bedroom ranch-style home, built in 1985, was deemed insufficient for the family’s needs after the recent birth of a new child. Seeking to remain in their community, the Sankars proposed a vertical expansion that would align their home with the predominantly two-story structures in the neighborhood. This proposal intended to raise the floor area ratio from the permissible 37% to 40% and maintain the already nonconforming lot coverage of 26%, which exceeds the 20% standard of the RBB zone.

Sankar, supported by professional planner Vina Savant, emphasized that the addition would not alter the building’s footprint, a point that swayed the board’s decision. Savant noted that the neighborhood primarily consists of two-story homes, making the existing single-story structure an outlier.

The board’s deliberations included a focus on maintaining neighborhood compatibility and ensuring compliance with zoning laws. The application met the necessary criteria for a variance under the municipal land use law, which provides flexibility for minor adjustments in zoning regulations. After a review, the board unanimously approved the application, contingent upon the submission of an amended variance application to correct a minor mathematical error.

In another residential project on the agenda, the board considered a proposal for a duplex on Central Avenue. The plan conformed with zoning regulations, including a reduction in impervious surfaces by removing existing structures. The duplex design featured traditional elements, such as front-facing garages and doors, and adhered to landscaping requirements. Architect Robert Hernandez detailed the design, emphasizing efficient use of space, including an optional unfinished basement for housing utilities. The board examined compliance with building codes, particularly regarding basement ingress and egress, with a condition that future modifications for living space would require an external exit.

The meeting also covered a significant proposal for a French chateau-style residence on Woodland Avenue. The discussion revealed that the proposed home’s size exceeded zoning standards, requiring variances for building and impervious coverage, as well as side yard setbacks. The board scrutinized the stormwater management plan, which included a sizable underground basin to address runoff concerns. Architect Nihal Javi described the residence’s features, which included luxury amenities like an indoor pool and media room. The board expressed concerns about the home’s size relative to zoning limits and requested further review to ensure compliance.