One notable matter at the meeting was the introduction of an ordinance aimed at managing parking around the Union Hotel project site. The ordinance, which affects Spring Street from Bloomfield to Williams, William Street from Maine to Broad, Maple from Broad to Maine, and Bloomfield from Spring to Broad, is designed to limit parking to residents only. The public hearing for this ordinance is set for December 8, with apartment leasing slated to begin in December and hotel room rentals expected to start in late January or early February. The reopening of Spring Street, closed for nearly four years, is anticipated once paving on Corer Place is complete. The traffic plan, previously approved by ordinance, includes weight restrictions and a one-way designation for Spring Street. While the plan aims to improve traffic flow and safety, there was acknowledgment of potential compliance challenges for residents adjusting to the changes.

In addition to the ordinance, the board discussed the scheduling of public hearings for two site plan applications. The Spark Car Wash application, initially postponed, has been rescheduled for December 16, while Bless Wellness is set to be heard on December 9. The board considered the merits of holding both hearings on the same night versus separate meetings and ultimately decided on two meetings in December to ensure adequate time for each application. This decision aims to avoid unnecessary delays and ensure deadlines are met.

The application for St. Magdalene Plazi Roman Catholic Church was another focal point of the meeting. The church, represented by attorney Ted Carroll and Father James De Phillips, submitted a minor site plan application requesting temporary waivers for checklist items related to water and sewer fee payment certification and tax certification. Given the church’s tax-exempt status, this request was deemed reasonable. However, a potential conflict of interest arose when a board member was found to be in proximity to the site, prompting counsel to advise recusal from voting while allowing for public comment. The discussion also highlighted an error in the 200-foot notification list, excluding the recusing member’s name, which raised concerns about ensuring all necessary parties were notified.

The board ultimately voted to deem the St. Magdalene application complete, subject to the granting of the requested waivers and incorporation of items from correspondence received. The public hearing for this application is likely to take place in January, allowing for adequate public notice and preparation. The board emphasized the importance of accuracy in the notification process, particularly regarding the inclusion of neighbors on well water versus municipal water, to ensure fairness and thoroughness.

Another noteworthy discussion involved the Works for Properties application, which has been ongoing since July 2023. The absence of representatives from this project was noted, and further communication with legal counsel was promised to clarify the situation.

Despite these challenges, the board moved to order bills for approval and decided against holding an executive session.