Garwood Planning Board Reviews Five-Year School District Plan Amid Financial Constraints

Overview: The Garwood Planning Board meeting on September 25, 2023, focused intensely on the presentation of a five-year plan for the school district by Superintendent Kenny and the financial challenges associated with implementing this plan. Discussions covered essential infrastructure upgrades, enrollment projections, and budgetary constraints that could impact the district’s ability to meet its goals.

Garwood Planning Board Advances South Avenue Land Swap

Overview: The Garwood Planning Board’s recent meeting on December 21, 2023, resulted in advancements for two land swap applications presented by Russo Development on behalf of South Avenue Urban Renewal LLC and South Avenue Urban Renewal II LLC. These applications, aimed at reshaping the local urban landscape, were part of a larger discussion on various civic improvements, including the review of a new stormwater ordinance and a development assistance package.

Garwood Planning Board Addresses Parking and Application Process Reforms

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Garwood Planning Board tackled issues affecting the town’s development and regulatory processes. The board passed a resolution with an amended compliance time frame for a property on Oak Street and discussed at length the development assistance package. Additionally, the board debated a contentious resolution regarding parking space leases for tenants and engaged in discussions about improving the sign ordinance and affordable housing regulations.

Garwood Planning Board Approves Phased Construction Amid Pandemic Challenges

Overview: The Garwood Planning Board recently convened to address a number of issues, the most significant of which was the approval of a phased construction plan for a liquor store and residential project at two North Avenue in the General Business Zone. The applicant, seeking to adapt to the economic impacts of COVID-19 and rising construction costs, proposed a timeline that would see the construction of a liquor store prior to adding the residential component. In addition to this key decision, the board tackled compliance matters related to property renovations on South Avenue and Winslow, proposed revisions to application packages, and potential zoning ordinance changes prompted by the master plan recommendations.

Garwood Planning Board Grapples with Variances and Site Plan Amendments

Overview: The Garwood Planning Board meeting centered on discussions related to proposed variances and site plan amendments for a property, with focus on potential changes to the landscape, parking area lighting, and the adherence to previously approved plans. The applicant faced rigorous scrutiny over several aspects of the proposed project, including the installation of a drainage system, ensuring adequate lighting in the parking area, and the adherence to impervious coverage and open space regulations.