A key topic of discussion was the application for a minor subdivision of a property on Stanton Avenue owned by Michael and Susan Costello. The board evaluated the subdivision’s compliance with zoning regulations, as the plan required several variances and waivers. The applicants sought to divide their 2.86-acre property, which currently hosts a single-family residence, into two lots. The proposal included creating a lot with only 22.6 feet of frontage, necessitating variances due to non-conformity with existing zoning requirements.

Concerns about the subdivision primarily revolved around driveway access and emergency service accessibility. Testimonies from local residents highlighted issues with emergency response in the area, as exemplified by past challenges faced during fire incidents. Chris Kelly, a resident directly behind the proposed site, stressed, “the access was atrocious trying to get back into that area,” pointing out the potential obstacles for fire trucks and other emergency vehicles. In response, the board’s engineer detailed the proposed home’s footprint and emphasized the need for adequate driveway specifications.

The board carefully considered these concerns and incorporated specific conditions into the approval. A member underscored the necessity of ensuring clear and wide access for the fire department, proposing a minimum driveway width of 15 feet and a height clearance of 14 feet. These stipulations were added to the resolution to address the access issues highlighted during the discussion. With these conditions in place, the board approved the application unanimously.

In another significant matter, the board reviewed an application for the Gloucester County EMS, presented by professional engineer Edward Farrell III. The proposal involved expanding the existing EMS building on C Mill Road by increasing the garage size from 700 square feet to 1,200 square feet. This expansion aimed to consolidate operations under one roof, replacing existing structures with a new garage and cleaning up the area. Although the project would slightly increase the site’s impervious surface, it remained well within the regulatory limits.

The board’s review of this application was cursory, as it concerned township-owned property. While formal approval was not required, the board provided comments on the proposal, and the motion to accept the application for cursory review passed unanimously.

Furthermore, the meeting addressed a minor subdivision application for a property located on Willer Grove Road. This application involved separating a 1.5-acre non-preserved portion from a 29.5-acre preserved farm to construct a new home for Rachel Leber, the daughter of the property owners. The existing dwelling, which did not meet the required setback from the road, was slated for demolition.

The board appreciated the thoroughness of the application, as noted by a member who commented on the comprehensive documentation prepared by the applicant’s attorney. The subdivision proposal aligned with local farming regulations, and the design included necessary buffers. The board’s discussion also covered the existing septic system and well, which would undergo evaluation as part of the development process. The motion to approve the subdivision was seconded and supported unanimously.