The most pressing topic of the meeting was the ongoing deliberation over the subdivision application for a property featuring two buildings, located at 2320 and Camplan Road. This application, presented by Morton Street Realty Company, sought minor subdivision approval and bulk variances. The property, historically operated as two distinct lots despite being legally classified as one, aimed to formalize this arrangement through subdivision to afford the property owner greater financial flexibility. The project proposed subdividing a 3.52-acre lot into two, with one lot containing a 1,957-square-foot building and the other a 6,000-square-foot building.

A deed restriction was proposed to prevent additional impervious coverage, addressing concerns about stormwater management. The applicant’s engineer detailed the layout and operation of the property, noting the established parking facilities and access routes. Despite the existing conditions, the board emphasized the need for precise compliance with zoning regulations, particularly regarding setbacks and lot widths.

A significant part of the discussion revolved around an easement issue. The easement, established for the benefit of the township due to past litigation regarding a landfill on the property, presented complications. The applicant sought to relocate the easement, but this required approval from the township committee. The planning board emphasized that it could not compel the relocation or impair the township’s rights.

Tensions surfaced over the board’s ability to proceed with the application given the unresolved easement issue. Some members expressed frustration over the stalled progress, noting that the applicant had ample time to resolve the matter but had not done so. The board debated whether to suspend the application until the easement issue was resolved or to move forward with conditions. The applicant’s counsel reiterated that the planning board could not require the easement’s relocation, emphasizing that this was within the township committee’s purview.

The discussion also touched on the practicalities of stormwater management, loading spaces, and waste disposal facilities. The applicant agreed to remove certain impervious surfaces to meet the 60% coverage requirement and proposed relocating a dumpster to a more interior location with proper screening. Expert testimony from a licensed planner highlighted that the variances were necessary due to unique property conditions and argued that maintaining the existing conditions would not be a substantial detriment to the public good.

Public comments underscored the community’s interest in transparency and efficient communication with the township. Residents advocated for live streaming the meetings and allowing electronic submission of public comments to increase participation. They also raised concerns about the delay in releasing meeting minutes and sought clarity on pending applications related to township property purchases.

The board’s deliberations were characterized by careful scrutiny of compliance with zoning regulations, the implications of requested variances, and the need for accurate documentation.

Ultimately, the board decided to continue the application without further notice until the next designated meeting, with a deadline for both parties to communicate their positions by October 15. The time for decision was extended to November 15, allowing for additional discussions and potential resolution. The meeting concluded with a unanimous motion to adjourn.