The meeting began with a focus on the application by Bounce Air Adventure Park LLC, represented by John Wneski from Wneski and Associates. The applicant presented three witnesses, including an engineer, a business principal, and a planner, to provide detailed testimony on the proposed facility. The engineer, Chuen Jang, described the project as maintaining the existing structure’s footprint, with no planned expansions. The facility will offer segregated play areas by age, supported by over 800 shared parking spaces available in Ruckers Plaza, which is expected to meet the parking needs of the facility.

Business principal Hang Lin outlined the operational aspects, stating that the facility would operate from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM on weekdays and 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM on weekends. Expected attendance figures suggest fewer than 100 visitors on weekdays and up to 225 on weekends. The facility plans to employ 8 to 10 staff members on weekdays and 15 to 20 on weekends. The board was particularly interested in the age restrictions and operational details, emphasizing the importance of adult supervision to ensure safety.

The planner discussed the necessity of a D1 variance, as the proposed indoor recreation use is not typically permitted in the GB zone. He argued that the variance is justified due to the site’s suitability for such a use, asserting that it aligns with local planning goals and would not detract from community welfare. The planner estimated parking requirements at 35 to 50 spaces on weekdays, peaking at about 100 spaces during weekends. The board’s deliberations highlighted a balance between new business opportunities and adherence to zoning laws.

In addition to the Bounce Air Adventure Park application, the board also considered a proposed subdivision of land on Davidson Avenue involving the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA. This application involved dividing a 32-acre parcel into two sections: a 14.9-acre section for the church and a 17.7-acre section designated for a warehouse. The subdivision was deemed conforming to zoning regulations, with further site plan approvals needed for both the church and the warehouse.

The board addressed concerns about the implications of the warehouse project, which sought variances for uses not permitted in the BI zone. These discussions centered on the potential impacts on the local community and regulatory compliance. The board emphasized the need for transparency and procedural clarity, with public inquiries focusing on the impact on local traffic, stormwater management, and the proximity to St. Andrew Cemetery, which holds historical significance for the Ukrainian community.

The meeting also included discussions on the Somerset Exchange project, with emphasis on the Historic Preservation Commission’s decisions, which were non-binding on the Zoning Board. The project involved the demolition of a cultural center and the construction of a logistics facility. The board clarified that they had no jurisdiction over demolition permits, leaving decisions to the Historic Preservation Commission.

As the session progressed, public comments highlighted concerns about adequate notice and the availability of presentation materials, emphasizing the need for public access to detailed project information. The board assured attendees that submitted documents were accessible on the township’s website.