0:00The board’s most notable decision was the approval of a preliminary and final major subdivision for property on North County Line Road and Picadilly Drive. The applicant proposed creating three new lots, including one for a two-story house of worship covering approximately 20,000 square feet, complete with an accessory mikvah and related site improvements. Spanning 14.6 acres, the proposed house of worship was previously permitted as a conditional use before a new ordinance was passed. The applicant sought bulk variance relief for minimum lot frontage and width, asserting that these variances had been previously granted by the zoning board.

During the meeting, the applicant’s representative and other witnesses presented detailed evidence, including aerial maps and site plans. The proposed development included 104 parking spaces, later adjusted to 110 to incorporate additional electric vehicle (EV) parking spaces. Discussions focused on the location of EV parking spaces, their proximity to the building, fire safety, and accessibility considerations. The representative confirmed that the plan would include three handicap spaces, with one designated EV handicap space near the entrance.

27:49A significant portion of the dialogue centered on the status of Picadilly Drive, which lacked formal documentation confirming its acceptance by the township. Despite its operational use since around 2008, there was no evidence of a filed map creating the right of way or official acceptance of improvements. Board members emphasized the need for conditions to ensure the road is constructed to township standards and formally dedicated. The applicant’s representative acknowledged this, noting that the township had likely maintained the road for many years without formal documentation.

The conversation also touched on variances required for the project, including those related to lot frontage on County Line Road and lot width. These variances were presented as necessary adjustments to address existing conditions and past decisions. The architectural plans for the proposed building were reviewed. The facility, intended for services seven days a week, would not host large events such as weddings, focusing instead on religious ceremonies and community gatherings.

1:19:02Public safety and accessibility remained at the forefront of the board’s concerns. A traffic engineer presented a traffic impact analysis, noting that the proposed development would generate approximately 150 peak hour trips. The intersection at Hampshire Boulevard and Padelli Drive was projected to operate with minimal delays. Queries regarding the sole frontage of new lots on lower-order streets were addressed, with the traffic engineer classifying Padelli Drive as a minor collector street, meeting the criteria for the project.

Sidewalk safety was another topic discussed at length. Concerns were raised about the proposed sidewalk leading to County Line Road, with residents and board members expressing apprehensions about increased pedestrian traffic, particularly from children, towards a hazardous area. The sentiment was echoed by the police department’s letter, which shared similar safety concerns. One resident emphasized that without sidewalks on County Line Road, the connection could lead to dangerous situations, creating a “bridge to nowhere.”

27:49Board members deliberated on the necessity of sidewalks, weighing the benefits against potential risks. The consensus leaned towards ensuring community safety while considering the unique circumstances of each situation. The proposed sidewalk plan was debated, with a motion made to end the sidewalk at the Shaw property, which was subsequently passed by a majority voice vote.

1:36:57The meeting also included discussions on another development project involving a new synagogue and an accessory mikvah on Heisen Road. The proposal included a main sanctuary, multipurpose assembly area, and mikvah, with public sewer and water connections approved. The site plan presented showed compliance with parking requirements, including provisions for handicap-accessible and EV spaces. The applicant agreed to designate one of the EV stations as a handicap space, addressing board concerns.