At the heart of the meeting was the application for Sandy Hook Seafood, which aims to transform two adjacent lots into a seafood retail market with indoor dining facilities. The application included variances and waivers, notably for lot coverage, as the proposal seeks to improve upon the existing 100% coverage by reducing it to 98%. Attorney Douglas Kovats explained the nuances of the variances, emphasizing the need for the applicant to demonstrate either a hardship due to unique property features or public benefits from the proposal. The board scrutinized the potential impact on the surrounding community.

Jennifer Krimco, representing the applicant, detailed the project’s vision, which includes cross-access and parking easements to maintain operational harmony between the lots. The seafood market, spearheaded by entrepreneur Luke Bolman, seeks to offer fresh, locally sourced seafood with an emphasis on quality. Partnerships with local fishermen and the Fulton Fish Market were highlighted as part of the strategy to provide superior seafood options, including New Jersey clams and locally treasured bluefin tuna. The market plans to operate from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with deliveries scheduled during off-peak hours to minimize disruption.

A significant aspect of the proposal involved modifying the existing wide curb cut to enhance traffic safety. The board deliberated on the implications of narrowing the curb cut from 57 feet to 30 feet. The discussion included considerations for landscaping and pedestrian access, aligning with the town’s active transportation plan. The engineer outlined improvements to the current parking situation, proposing to restripe and create 25 designated spaces to meet site requirements.

Site improvements also included a new trash enclosure and organized delivery spaces to address the existing disorderly setup. The proposal to replace an outdoor 30-yard dumpster with a smaller, organized enclosure was discussed, along with plans for private trash pickup to better manage waste. The board reviewed the proposed storage area for pool chemicals and improvements to stormwater management, especially the introduction of a rain garden designed to reduce runoff and improve environmental sustainability.

Lighting and signage were other focal points, with the board debating the number of signs, their placement, and compliance with local standards. The proposed signage plan included external lighting to maintain neighborhood aesthetics, and the building’s exterior would be updated with Canadian cedar shake siding for a cohesive appearance. The board also considered the impact of these changes on the multi-tenanted building.

Pedestrian and bicycle access were recurring themes, with board members stressing the importance of safe, defined pathways. There was agreement on incorporating high-visibility crosswalks and possibly adding a sidewalk or physical barriers to enhance pedestrian safety. The applicant promised to consider installing a bike rack to accommodate cyclists. Concerns about potential bike traffic, particularly involving children, were addressed, with assurances that the market’s focus on high-end seafood would attract primarily adult cyclists.

Public comments reflected community support for the seafood market, with residents expressing enthusiasm for the project and its alignment with the town’s active transportation plan. The Fair Haven Business Association also praised the property owner’s investment in the community.

As the meeting concluded, the board reached a consensus that the benefits of the proposed project, such as improved safety, environmental enhancements, and community engagement, outweighed any detriments. A motion for site plan approval was made, contingent on the applicant meeting specific conditions discussed during the meeting. These included compliance with engineering and landscaping reports, as well as further information on signage and pedestrian walkway delineation.