Verona Town Planning Board Tackles Affordable Housing and Parking Challenges in Redevelopment Plans

Overview: The Verona Town Planning Board meeting on February 26, 2026, centered on discussions about affordable housing obligations and parking requirements within redevelopment plans for key sites on Bloomfield Avenue.

Amherst Zoning Board Tackles Unusual Permit Elimination and New Property Use

Overview: The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals, in a remote meeting, addressed an unusual request to eliminate an existing special permit for a property on North Witness Street, while also considering a new special permit application to transform a property on Meadow Street.

Cape May Zoning Board Approves Franken Renovations Amidst Community Support

Overview: The Cape May Zoning Board convened to address several noteworthy applications, with the primary focus on a proposed renovation by the Frankens at 1 and 2 Roseman’s Lane. The meeting saw community support for the Frankens’ plans, which included expansions and improvements to their dual-residence property. The board ultimately approved the variances sought for the renovation, acknowledging the positive neighborhood impact and compliance with zoning regulations.

Amherst Committee Discusses Simplification of Solar Bylaw and Emergency Response Plans

Overview: During the latest Amherst Community Resources Committee meeting, members focused on refining the town’s clean energy bylaw, specifically concerning emergency response plans for ground-mounted solar installations. The committee aimed to simplify and align the bylaw’s language with existing protocols, proposing that solar installations adhere to the National Fire Protection Association’s standards and Ammeris Fire Department’s approval. They also debated the necessity of reporting and monitoring requirements, striving for consistency with large-scale projects and considering a year-long post-construction monitoring period.

New Ulm City Council Approves Variance Requests for Royal Oaks Recycling Facility

Overview: During a recent meeting, the New Ulm City Council unanimously approved variance requests for the Royal Oaks Recycling facility, reducing the required minimum parcel area from four acres to 3.69 acres and decreasing the setback from 500 feet to 325 feet from residential areas. The facility, located on North Front Street, is intended to operate as a transfer station for recyclable materials, focusing primarily on commercial recyclables rather than residential collections.