The most noteworthy agenda item involved JCPNL’s application for a use variance and preliminary final site plan approval to replace existing public utility structures and enhance the substation at Laravey as part of the New Jersey Clean Energy Corridor Project. JCPNL, represented by Benjamin Nadell, outlined the plan to remove 60 existing structures and install 31 new steel monopoles, alongside improvements to the existing substation. The board had previously discussed aspects of this application on July 14, 2025, and requested further testimony regarding the infrastructure connecting the JCPNL substation to a project by Mayott.

The board, in collaboration with JCPNL, adopted a phased approach to construction, delaying some work until Mayott received its construction permits. This strategy was agreed upon after discussions with the board’s professionals. Another point of discussion was the height of the security fence around the substation, with an agreement reached to design the fence without barbed wire while potentially reaching a height of 10 feet. JCPNL planned to seek a variance for this height, which the board members supported as it addressed security concerns without violating municipal regulations.

Further testimony from Mr. Josempa, a witness for JCPNL, confirmed that specific improvements, including structures and an optical fiber communication cable highlighted in red on a diagram, would not be constructed until Mayott secured its construction permits. This decision relieved the developers from returning to the board for approval at a later date, as they emphasized clarity by suggesting that the exhibit showing the improvements be included as a full sheet in the plan set.

The board opened the floor for public comments on this point, but no members of the public came forward. After a brief discussion, a motion to close the public session passed without opposition, and the board moved to approve the application.

Another development was the approval of a new parsonage for the Freehold Church of Christ. The application sought to construct a one-story parsonage attached to the church on Strickland Road. The church’s attorney noted that this application had been previously approved in 1992, including necessary variances. The parsonage, described as a modest structure measuring 1,387 square feet and standing 15 feet high, aimed to provide housing for a full-time minister.

Board discussions included concerns about stormwater management, with plans indicating dry wells for the parsonage. The board also addressed the continuation of previously granted waivers, such as one for sidewalk installation along the right-of-way. A board member expressed no issues with maintaining these waivers, given the nature of the addition. Additionally, there were comments about the need for right-of-way dedication or easement to enhance access to the master plan, which the applicant agreed to address.

The board addressed tree clearing. A restriction on renting the parsonage to outside tenants was discussed, with the applicant confirming that this was not anticipated. This application, having been presented in various forms to the board over 35 years, was ultimately approved unanimously following a roll call vote.

The meeting also covered the application from SCB Farmingdale LLC to construct a 1,500 square foot detached garage in the SED-1 zone. The project involved a three-car garage with additional site improvements on properties located on Squankum Road. The board discussed the non-conforming nature of the property, which is undersized for the current zoning requirements. Despite some concerns about the garage’s potential commercial appearance, the representative clarified that it was intended for personal storage.

The board sought to ensure the application was recorded accurately to prevent any future misuse of the property. The applicant agreed to conditions of approval, such as relocating the driveway and constructing sidewalks, which were deemed important by the board. A motion to approve the application was made, leading to a roll call vote that resulted in unanimous approval.