The meeting’s focal point revolved around the SP115 ja Howell LLC application for a preliminary and final major site plan. The applicant presented revised plans, addressing concerns previously raised by the board and township engineering office. The board’s attention honed in on the stormwater management system changes, particularly the new sewer extension aimed at mitigating potential impacts on neighboring properties. The engineer, speaking on behalf of the applicant, outlined the adjustments made, including the strategic redirection of the discharge location.

The board tackled the intricate details of the development’s landscape design, including a careful review of lighting plans and various design waivers requested by the applicant. These waivers pertained to aspects such as pavement materials, landscaping requirements, and loading areas. Moreover, the applicant’s professional planner presented arguments for a bulk variance related to the stormwater basin’s location, which was backed by the board’s professionals who agreed with the applicant’s testimony.

Another topic was the variance request for a property on Basin Road, where the applicant proposed to secure the rear yard with a chain-link fence. The board scrutinized the proposal, considering its impact on the public and surrounding neighborhood. The application was approved.

Additionally, the board moved forward with a minor subdivision application for Blen Yuck Properties LLC on Halls Corner Road. The proposal involved dividing the property into two lots, necessitating a variance for lot frontage. The applicants, including an engineer and a planner, provided an extensive overview of the existing property layout, the proposed division, and the need for stormwater management for a new home. The board’s acceptance of the credentials of the professionals presenting the application underscored the review process characteristic of Howell’s planning procedures.

The board and the applicant engaged in a robust dialogue regarding the character of the neighborhood, the size of the proposed lots, and the need for sidewalks and curbing.

Comments from various commissions and committees, including the Mammoth County Health and Services, the Shade Tree Commission, and the Environmental Commission, were also reviewed. Among the concerns addressed was a waiver for a 2000-foot downstream report requested by the Environmental Commission. The board’s professionals agreed with the applicant’s argument that the downstream impact would be minimal due to the proposed stormwater management measures.

The planning report discussion was instrumental in reaching consensus on various aspects, including the need for a sidewalk and the potential dedication of a right-of-way by the Town Council. Additionally, the applicant agreed to relocate a driveway encroachment.

The meeting concluded with resolutions being memorialized and a brief discussion about the municipal master plan. The possibility of canceling the next master plan meeting was considered due to a lack of items for discussion.