01:30:59The daycare application presented by Oakland Road LLC sought approval to convert an existing two-story commercial office building into a daycare center. The proposed facility aims to serve approximately 175 children, primarily from families within Howell. During the meeting, traffic concerns were a central topic, particularly regarding the intersection of Route 547 and Oakland Road. A traffic consultant detailed a study that assessed the intersection’s capacity to handle left turns and other movements, concluding that the proposed daycare operations would not disrupt current traffic patterns. However, residents voiced concerns about existing congestion, particularly during peak hours, and the potential impact of additional traffic generated by the daycare. The board discussed various strategies to mitigate traffic issues, including the implementation of “don’t block the box” striping to facilitate smoother vehicular movement.

01:55:36The board also considered the daycare’s operational model, which relies on private carpooling without school bus services. Drop-off and pick-up procedures were outlined, with emphasis on the one-hour window for each to minimize congestion. Safety measures, such as the installation of guardrails or bollards, were discussed to enhance child safety around the playground area. The board emphasized the importance of ensuring safe and efficient traffic flow, particularly during peak drop-off and pick-up times.

01:39:11Regarding site improvements, the board evaluated the necessity of variances for impervious coverage due to the proposed playground and additional parking spaces. The applicant agreed to consider reducing parking spots to expand the playground area, highlighting a commitment to meeting state licensing requirements for outdoor play spaces. Discussions also covered the installation of an underground storage tank for fire suppression.

The application also included a request for a use variance, as daycare facilities are not typically permitted in the AR6 zone. A planner argued that daycare centers are inherently beneficial uses, simplifying the approval process.

53:27In parallel, the board deliberated on the expansion plans for the Hourthouse restaurant, a historic establishment owned by Robert Sip. Sip’s application sought approval for improvements made during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the construction of a patio and a tent for outdoor dining and events. The board scrutinized these expansions, which were completed without prior township approval, and discussed the need for variances related to impervious coverage and the installation of a pavilion to replace the temporary tent structure.

01:05:05The restaurant’s expansion plans included a proposed subdivision and property line adjustments to accommodate the pavilion. The board raised concerns about noise from outdoor events, prompting a stipulation that live music must end by 10 p.m. to comply with township noise ordinances. Additionally, the board emphasized the importance of addressing site maintenance issues, such as debris removal and hazardous tree management, as conditions for approving the application.

01:27:17The board approved the restaurant’s application, contingent upon compliance with specific conditions and continued dialogue with township professionals.