Specialty Assays Inc. and CP East Brunswick Inc. were the beneficiaries of the Planning Board’s decisions to extend deadlines for obtaining necessary Outside Agency approvals. The first, Specialty Assays Inc., received a new date of June 6, 2024, to secure approvals, while CP East Brunswick Inc.’s request for three one-year extensions was deliberated, with their representatives detailing the challenges they faced with the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) regarding access to Route 206. The board showed support for the CP East Brunswick Inc. project, even suggesting that the developer seek assistance from the county to overcome the DOT’s denials, which were ostensibly based on traffic safety concerns. The public’s inquiries into these denials led to further explanations from the board on the necessary changes to address the DOT’s concerns.

Amidst these discussions, a resident’s concerns about the presence of the Planning Board attorney, Eric Bernstein, without a signed contract sparked debate. The board directed the resident to submit documents for future discussion, emphasizing adherence to procedures for addressing active applications.

Another development discussed was a preliminary and final major site plan approval for Petrox Liquors. The proposed 480-square-foot addition, intended for on-site storage, brought up issues such as drainage and parking requirements. Due to the location in the Town Center zoning district, a conceptual plan review was deemed necessary. The applicant presented efforts to ameliorate existing drainage issues and addressed potential legal implications, though the discussion did not conclude within the provided transcript.

A variance request for a lot in the Town Center (TC) Zone was also on the agenda. The applicant sought relief for a 1.6-acre lot where 2 acres are required and presented plans for an addition at the rear of an existing liquor store, which included pedestrian walkways and stormwater management improvements. The board discussed the site plan, addressing the exemption letters from regulatory agencies and the reports from the Township Fire Marshal, County, Township Planner, and Board Engineer. The applicant assured the board that the addition would not substantially alter the operation of the facilities and expressed a willingness to address additional comments and clarifications requested by board professionals and agencies.

The board further delved into the details of stormwater management for the proposed developments. Concerns were raised about the need for stormwater runoff calculations and lighting plans for the proposed storage area. The applicant planned to provide lighting details with the construction plan permit application and explained the proposed connection of roof leaders to the drainage system.

The proposed project involving new pipes for drainage improvements was also a focal point. The board debated the necessity of calculations for stormwater runoff and the potential impact on the county storm system. A shared driveway, drainage improvements on a neighbor’s property, and the need for neighbor approval were discussed. Despite some concerns, the board approved the project with certain conditions and decided to cancel an upcoming business meeting.