The primary focus of the meeting was the application by Congregation Aath Isal, seeking approval for a one-story addition to the existing synagogue. The proposal required variances due to the non-compliance with several zoning standards, including front yard setback, lot width, and building height. The applicant’s attorney introduced Rabbi Galia Jaffy, who testified about the congregation’s size and practices, emphasizing that most congregants walk to services, thereby minimizing parking demands.

The congregation consists of about 51 full members and 23 associate members, with attendance peaking during the Jewish Sabbath and holidays. Rabbi Jaffy reassured the board that the existing nine parking spaces are sufficient, even during high-attendance events, due to the walking nature of the congregation. Engineer Adnan Khan supported this by presenting the site plans, detailing the necessary variances, and highlighting minor design deviations.

The board deliberated on the proposal’s implications, focusing on traffic safety and parking adequacy. Concerns were raised about the current parking configuration’s safety, particularly the immediate right turn from Lincoln Highway into the parking lot. The proposal included relocating the driveway to improve vehicle circulation and safety, increasing the number of parking spaces to eleven, including two handicap-accessible spots.

The discussion extended to the architectural plans, with Anthony Guzo outlining the proposed changes to the building’s design. The expansion aims to add approximately 5,000 square feet, including a new sanctuary and functional spaces, while maintaining the current footprint to avoid increasing existing variances. The design incorporates a comprehensive landscaping plan with an underground detention basin for stormwater management, addressing runoff issues affecting neighboring properties.

Public comments were supportive, with residents like Mr. Joseph FR and Mr. Spencer Rockman emphasizing the congregation’s walking habits and the potential aesthetic improvements from the expansion. The board concluded that, considering the inherently beneficial use of houses of worship, the positives of the project outweighed any negatives, particularly given the congregation’s operational practices that mitigate potential parking issues.

The board unanimously approved the application, acknowledging the project’s alignment with zoning and safety regulations. The decision was met with congratulations from the chairman.

Following the synagogue’s case, the meeting shifted focus to the Bol Bola Oil Corporation’s application for a gas station and convenience store on Route 1. The proposal sought preliminary and final site plan approval, alongside bulk and use variances, to repurpose the existing fuel station. The application faced scrutiny due to noise and congestion concerns, particularly from diesel deliveries during nighttime hours, which residents claimed disturbed their sleep.

The applicant’s representative addressed these concerns by proposing restricted delivery hours from 7 AM to 7 PM and introducing measures to prevent truck idling, in compliance with state law. They highlighted the planned improvements to the site, including enhanced landscaping, stormwater management, and a new building with indoor restrooms. The existing non-conforming signage would be refaced, and lighting adjustments would aim to mitigate disturbances to nearby residences.

Despite these proposed changes, public comments revealed ongoing dissatisfaction with the gas station’s operations. Residents criticized the current lighting and noise issues, with some suggesting that the proposed 8-foot fence might not suffice in addressing these problems. The board acknowledged the necessity of further examination and decided to continue the matter to a subsequent meeting on February 25, 2025, allowing time for a more thorough assessment of the proposed solutions.