0:00The meeting began with the board addressing the application of Justin McN on Guy Drive, seeking to add a second story over an existing two-car garage. This property, located on a corner lot, required a variance due to an existing rear yard setback of 17.7 feet, below the required 50 feet. Mr. McN emphasized maintaining the architectural character of the home, minimizing the addition’s impact on the ground plane. The board approved the application unanimously after confirming the project’s compliance with height restrictions and addressing concerns about non-conforming use status and drainage.

17:01Next, the board discussed the application of Georgia Melinda Wise on Oak Avenue, focusing on replacing an existing detached garage with a larger structure. This required a variance for increased lot coverage from the current 58% to a proposed 68%. The board considered the minimal expansion on a small lot and the borough’s goal of having detached garages set further back. The application was approved after ensuring compliance with height restrictions and stormwater management measures, acknowledging the applicant’s risk if construction began before the 45-day appeal period concluded.

Following these approvals, the board reviewed Andre and Joseph Brombach’s application for a property on Sycamore Street. They sought to expand their kitchen, add a screened porch, replace a covered patio with a mudroom, and cover the front porch. This project required multiple variances due to existing non-conformities, including side yard setbacks and increased lot coverage from 35.9% to approximately 42.195%. The board’s planner outlined the need for a grading plan and a stormwater infiltration system, which the applicants agreed to implement. The board approved the application after confirming the open-air nature of the porch and addressing questions about dimensions and setbacks.

In addition to these project discussions, the board addressed procedural matters related to the request for proposals (RFPs) for professional services, including solicitor and engineer roles for the upcoming year. A committee was formed to review submissions.