During the meeting, the condition of an old two-room schoolhouse emerged as a critical concern. The deteriorating roof of this historic building was in danger of collapsing, which prompted the suggestion to form a subcommittee tasked with addressing emergency applications and visually inspecting the property. This subcommittee would focus on preservation and emergency matters, such as the schoolhouse’s roof issue, without delving into interior design details.

In addition to the schoolhouse, the committee discussed the proposed sale of the “Dunh house,” a historical property acquired using Green Acres funds. The township intends to sell the property while maintaining farmland preservation, prompted by the liability associated with the pond on the premises. The house, which has been unoccupied since the passing of Mrs. Dunn, recently received a new slate roof financed by open space funds. A major point of contention was the property’s construction date, with varying opinions on whether it was built in the 1860s or the 1890s. The potential sale sparked debate regarding procedures, legalities, and the need for an easement to ensure continued historic preservation post-sale.

Other property discussions included a homeowner’s window installation approval, a property owner’s application to install a New England Style shed with a Dormer, and an application for a fence replacement and storm door addition on Franklin Street. Also, the committee reviewed and approved an application for paving a driveway extension on South Middlebush Road.

The committee addressed another property on Route 27, where owners sought to alter the building for a retail cannabis business. The planned changes included removing the roof, altering the siding, and applying a stucco finish. The property owners were informed that their plans were not approvable due to the area being a historic district and the necessity for proper approvals for alterations.

An update was provided on the “Tulipwood” property, which might present challenges in selling due to the diversity of funding sources used for its purchase. The committee also raised concerns about the condition of another property, highlighting unsafe electrical wiring as a safety and aesthetic issue.

Financial needs of the Meadows Foundation were discussed, clarifying the types of expenses that could be covered by open space funds, with the recognition of the township’s responsibility for the properties managed by the Foundation.

The committee engaged in a discussion about updating bylaws and reviewing ordinances, acknowledging that the current bylaws are inadequate and too basic. The need for clarity and specificity in the bylaws was emphasized to prevent ambiguity and potential issues. The committee also contemplated instituting a hard stop for meetings at 11 pm to avoid excessively long sessions and discussed grant opportunities in light of New Jersey’s upcoming 250th anniversary.

Lastly, an incident involving the Marone group was mentioned, where unauthorized construction work began on county property, leading to a stoppage and potential restoration requirements.