The board heard discussions and testimonies around the proposed Macedonia Church of God in Christ, which sought to construct a new parking lot with 38 parking spaces and additional parking spaces across the street. The church’s application highlighted a need for further parking arrangements to accommodate its congregation, as the current lot contains about 10 spaces. To address this, the church entered into agreements with RPM and PNC Bank to use their parking spaces on Sundays, with the PNC Bank lot offering 70 spaces.

A point of contention was the enforceability and longevity of these third-party parking agreements, especially with PNC Bank. Some board members questioned the reliability of these arrangements, expressing concern over whether they would satisfy parking needs in perpetuity. There was also a mention of a similar previous church approval that did not lead to issues.

The board also engaged in a debate over whether the church should be allowed to count on-street parking towards its parking requirements. The conversation took a critical turn when the concept of an absolute and non-terminable agreement for on-street parking was brought up, emphasizing the board’s discretion in this matter. The availability and exact number of on-street parking spaces within a block of the church were also scrutinized, highlighting the need for precise information.

The discussion was further complicated by the potential need for additional buffering and screening, as well as the size and coverage of the building in relation to ordinance requirements. There were varying interpretations of the zoning ordinance, with members debating its implications for the proposed church and the enforceability of parking conditions.

One potential solution to the parking dilemma was the reduction of fixed seats in the church to decrease parking requirements. This idea saw mixed reactions, with some members approving and others suggesting designing the building with the prospect of future expansion in mind.

A traffic consultant discussed parking needs and shuttle service feasibility, while a church design expert spoke on the potential for congregation growth with the right facilities. The board sought more quantified information on available parking spaces, including a request for detailed written information in advance, to be better prepared for decision-making.

Ultimately, the board decided to carry the matter to a future date, granting an extension through October 31st. Plans for building modifications are expected to be presented by mid-August, with the subsequent meeting scheduled for October 16th. The board expressed its intent to be helpful and considerate.

Other items discussed during the meeting included the approval of a minor subdivision on Gerard Avenue, with conditions set by the committee, and the relief of conditions for Birch Glen LLC, which involved allowing three houses to be on wells temporarily due to water permit restrictions.

The proposed warehouse across from ShopRite on Old New Brunswick Road was postponed until the applicant could demonstrate access through the road.