One of the central issues that dominated the discussion was the reform of the application process for development and variance requests. The board members debated the benefits of consolidating the forms into a single document to ease the submission process and reduce confusion for applicants. The idea of creating fillable PDF forms to increase efficiency was also considered, although technical challenges were noted. A member suggested the removal of the requirement for residents to specify certain types of variances to simplify the process. The consensus, while not finalized, leaned towards a more uniform and streamlined application format that would include a statement of principal points and clear notification requirements.

Another topic that generated discussion was the resolution concerning tenants and parking space leases. The board grappled with the question of whether tenants should be compelled to pay for parking spots, even if they do not own a car, and the legal enforceability of such a mandate. The conversation revealed a division among board members, with some concerned about the potential for litigation and others emphasizing past decisions where the board had taken a strong stance on parking issues. The resolution for a property on Oak Street was notably adopted with an amendment suggesting a compliance time frame of 30 days in addition to “immediately,” reflecting the board’s attention to enforceability in their resolutions.

The Garwood Planning Board also addressed the need for updates to the town’s sign ordinance. Recognizing that the existing ordinance, written 35 years ago, may not adequately reflect the current business landscape, there was a proposal to meet with small business representatives. The goal is to understand their recommendations for sign variances and consider ordinance changes following a 2023 master plan reexamination. A motion was made to request a proposal from Harbor Consultants for these changes.

Affordable housing regulations were also a point of discussion, with the board debating the recommendation of certain properties to be placed under the State Recreation and Open Space Inventory to reduce the amount of developable land. This recommendation was put to a vote and passed.

The discussions were part of ongoing efforts by the Garwood Planning Board to improve the town’s development assistance package, prepared by Kathy Bashio, Steve GRE, and Steve Baran. The package is designed to benefit applicants and the board by providing clear guidelines and requirements for development applications. While there was a general consensus on the package’s benefits, specific details regarding the format and content of the application forms are still under debate. The board aims to create a more manageable and transparent process, with discussions indicating future revisions to form sections and the application process itself.