The primary focus of the meeting was the application from SYC Reality LLC concerning the expansion of Jerusalem Pizza, a local downtown establishment. Represented by an attorney, the applicant sought approval to construct an additional kitchen space of approximately 176.832 square feet following a fire that required extensive renovations, including ADA-compliant restrooms. This expansion, while modest in size, involved several zoning challenges, including existing nonconformities such as rear yard setbacks and parking space limitations.

Jerusalem Pizza’s owner, Shalom Cohen, explained that due to the fire and subsequent renovations, the restaurant’s seating capacity was reduced from 40 to 30 seats. The board scrutinized the application, particularly focusing on the implications for parking and traffic flow. With no dedicated parking spaces available for the restaurant’s patrons, customers rely on street parking and nearby public lots. The board concluded that the reduction in seating would not increase parking demand, allowing for the continuation of current parking arrangements.

The meeting also delved into the zoning compliance of the proposed addition. The project met the minimum lot area and depth requirements and adhered to the height restrictions of the Central Business District (CBD). However, the rear yard setback posed a challenge, as it did not meet the 20-foot requirement but was considered an existing nonconformity. Additionally, the impervious surface coverage exceeded the permissible limits, standing at 97.9%, above the 90% threshold. Despite these issues, the board found the application acceptable, in part due to the lack of increased parking demand and the addition’s placement at the back of the building, where it would not be visible from the street.

The board examined the architectural elements of the proposed addition. It was presented as a one-story extension with vinyl siding in a neutral color, which faced some scrutiny for not maintaining design continuity. However, the siding’s lack of public visibility was cited as a mitigating factor, allowing the board to consider waivers for these design standards.

Another topic of interest was the proposed color scheme for the building, with discussions highlighting the need for a cohesive aesthetic. A muted blue was proposed for the main building, while the addition would be painted in a coordinating color, possibly beige or white, to ensure visual harmony without the risk of vibrant, clashing colors.

Parking logistics and vehicle circulation were also hotly debated. An aerial photograph revealed potential obstructions in the turnaround space between the two buildings. The applicant clarified that vehicles must turn around on-site or back up onto Route 27, which was deemed unsafe. The board discussed potential solutions, including utilizing an adjacent parking lot owned by the applicant to facilitate safer vehicle movements.

In addition to the specific application for Jerusalem Pizza, the Planning Board addressed broader operational changes, focusing on proposed amendments to its rules and regulations to embrace technological advancements such as Zoom participation. The board recognized the need for updated rules to improve public accessibility and engagement, particularly for individuals unable to attend in person due to physical disabilities. The proposed changes aim to clarify the distinction between public comments and formal testimony.