26:34One notable issue discussed was Flemington’s affordable housing obligations. With a deadline of June 30 looming for the submission of an updated housing plan, the planning board explored options to meet the borough’s requirements. The municipality is the only one in the county capable of fulfilling certain capacity mandates, while other suburban areas struggle with infrastructure limitations for water and sewage. The borough’s rehabilitation obligation was identified as 74 units, with discussions focusing on utilizing surplus rental units to meet these requirements because participation in a municipal rental program has been low due to deed restrictions on rent increases.

The need to adopt the housing plan without necessitating new zoning changes was highlighted, avoiding additional complications. The urgency was underscored by procedural concerns about the timeline for adopting the plan, with a public hearing set for June 24. The plan must be submitted to the court within 48 hours of adoption, prompting logistical discussions about facilitating a smoother process.

14:27Another topic was the developments at the Spice Factory site, which is nearing eligibility for a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy. Planner Elizabeth McManus highlighted concerns about missing landscaping elements and deviations from the initially approved plans. The conversion from commercial to residential use led to the omission of a landscape plan, resulting in blank mulch beds and dead trees throughout the parking lot. The board recommended delaying replacements until the commencement of phase two, expected within six months of phase one’s completion.

17:56Additional compliance issues at the Spice Factory included damaged canopies, inadequate roof equipment screening, and color discrepancies on the building’s upper stories. These inconsistencies prompted the board to request amendments from the developers to align with the approved design intent.

01:11:54The board’s attention then turned to a minor site plan approval request for a property on Main Street, where a fourth apartment is proposed within a mixed-use building. The property currently has commercial space on the first floor and two existing apartments on the second floor. The proposal involves converting a vacant conference room into an additional apartment without external alterations. The board confirmed that no variances were needed, and sufficient parking arrangements were in place, including a shared agreement with the adjacent Shakers Cafe.

The board members addressed minor nonconformities related to lot width, front yard setback, and impervious surface area, proposing variances to accommodate these pre-existing conditions. The hearing saw no public comments, and the board ultimately approved the site plan, emphasizing the importance of increasing residential opportunities to boost local business patronage.

55:06Members also expressed interest in future applications for community projects, such as an art installation at the courthouse square.