The most pressing topic of the meeting was the approval of a 70-unit senior housing complex proposed by MB of Delaware, LLC. The project, which includes a mix of one-bedroom and two-bedroom units, aims to provide affordable housing for seniors. This development also supports the municipality’s affordable housing plan and meets the requirements set by a court settlement. Despite retaining the three-story structure and density from the previous approvals, the proposal included several modifications to enhance the living environment.

The development will be located on a site currently occupied by a church, which will remain alongside the new residential building. The plan sought variances for use and bulk due to the non-conforming nature of both the church and the proposed building. The board discussed the variances in detail, emphasizing that most were continuations from previously granted variances. Notably, the coverage was reduced from a formerly approved 49.8% to 47.1%, still above the ordinance’s 25% limit, and the building height was slightly reduced to 36 feet 8 inches.

The discussion also included practical aspects like parking and stormwater management. The proposed plan allocates 158 parking spaces, with shared usage between the church and the residential units, taking into account their differing peak usage times. Improvements to the stormwater management system were necessitated by updated regulations.

Furthermore, the project will feature enhanced accessibility with amenities such as a community room, exercise facilities, and supportive services for residents. The development aims to provide a comprehensive living environment for seniors, with features like trash compactors and recycling systems designed to facilitate ease of use for the elderly.

The public comment period revealed concerns from a resident on Main Avenue about the proximity of new structures and the potential decrease in yard space for children. The resident emphasized the need for more open space and safety for children. The board addressed these concerns by discussing the inclusion of a fence in the project, although it remained unclear whether it would be mandated or optional.

Parallel to the senior housing discussion, the board addressed the resignation of a long-standing member, AG Crofer, who had served for 17 years. Mayor Leila Gilmore announced the resignation with regret, acknowledging Crofer’s steadfast contributions. Richard Gus Bradley was appointed to fill the Class 4 position on the board.

Another topic was the review of property variances for a proposal involving the subdivision of an existing lot on Stokes Avenue into two new lots. The applicant’s attorney, Robert Fleer, presented evidence from a survey indicating that some surrounding properties had less lot width than proposed. The board scrutinized the zoning status and development history of the lots, seeking to ensure compliance with local zoning regulations and address any potential concerns.

The conversation about the property variances included discussions on lot dimensions, zoning compliance, and the visual impact of the proposed construction. The board members expressed a need for thorough evaluation and requested additional documentation to support the variances sought.

In another case, the board reviewed a proposal from MVID of Delaware under the trade name Randolph Senior Estates. The project involves constructing an apartment building with associated parking on a site that currently includes a basketball court and grass courts. The proposal aimed to provide 158 parking spaces, including electric vehicle charging stations, to meet New Jersey’s legal requirements.

The meeting also featured technical discussions about site circulation, parking arrangements, and the proposed building design. The architect provided insights into the building’s exterior materials, colors, and signage. The board raised questions about accessibility, the impact of the building’s massing, and compliance with local ordinances.